My favourite soundtrack of 2026 so far is tucked in one of this year's biggest sleeper hits

Welcome to Critical Hit, a column where the PC Gamer team discusses and debates the world of videogame music and audio design. This month, I have found myself utterly captivated by Big Walk's soundtrack. Initially, I expected a conventional co-op experience, but House House's game exceeded my expectations, becoming one of my favorite games of 2026. Their exceptional music deserves special attention.

Big Walk's music is not omnipresent, but rather scattered throughout the game. The Australian duo aksfx creates ethereal, pulsating beats accompanied by jumping vocals. These elements sound unsettling on paper, yet their execution results in an exciting feeling of exploration and airiness.

One of the most significant aspects of Big Walk's music is its presence in radio stations scattered across the game world. These audio experiences are fully immersive, with speakers surrounding each radio station to allow players to fully appreciate every component. Moments spent listening to these radio stations are perfect respite from the game's action, creating a slice-of-life anime-like atmosphere.

Moreover, you can carry these radio stations around with you by attaching them to a companion's backpack, effectively turning them into a walking boombox. This choice adds an extra layer of depth to the experience, allowing you to relish the music and feel a sense of sadness when you eventually depart from it.

Finally, the game's main theme, featuring jumping vocals, evokes a nostalgic sense right from the start. Even after completing the game, the theme still brings tears to my eyes, highlighting the power of videogame music to evoke emotions and create lasting memories. In conclusion, Big Walk's soundtrack may seem simple at first glance, but its execution brings a profound depth that I never anticipated.