REVIEW: Caravan Sandwich (Switch)

Caravan SandWitch offers a warm and inviting gaming experience that feels like a leisurely road trip you never realized you needed. Imagine your own adventure in a Mad Max-esque world, only this time, the focus is on a gentle journey through a post-apocalyptic landscape. You step into the shoes of Sauge, who is every bit as intriguing as their name suggests. Armed with nothing but a slightly rundown, yet utterly endearing van, you meander through the dusty remnants of a planet once called home, on a quest to find Sauge’s long-lost sister. Forget about weapons and game-over screens; this game is all about soaking in the vibes, uncovering secrets, and embracing a narrative rich with emotion.

Right from the start, Caravan SandWitch’s stunning art caught my eye, like sunlight spilling in through a fractured window. The world is nothing short of breathtaking, with its soft brushstrokes and glowing hues painting a vivid picture. Whether racing across sun-drenched dunes or exploring the overgrown ruins of former factories, every scene felt like stepping into a canvas I’d love to be a part of. The characters, too, bring their own quirky charm, reminiscent of characters you’d encounter in a favorite indie comic, each with their own delightful peculiarities.

The storyline unfurls much like a long-awaited letter, wrapped in warmth and sincerity, full of touching moments that resonate with any gamer at heart. It’s not just about chasing leads on Sauge’s sister; it’s about meeting otherworldly characters who have managed to carve out lives amidst the ruins. There’s no barrage of exposition or dramatic scenes; instead, it offers genuine interactions and storytelling that grows on you. A particularly charming feature is the quest log styled as a social feed, adding a playful twist as you track your progress.

Then there’s the van—my steadfast companion on this journey. Navigating through Caravan SandWitch was, for the most part, delightful, despite its indie-game physics occasionally serving up some comic relief when trying to navigate sharp turns. Upgrades like a scanner and grappling hook are a humorous and practical nod to exploration, although the absence of fast travel could be a bit testing when you’re itching to return to the storyline. Nevertheless, the game gently reminds you to savor each moment along the trail.

One standout aspect is its peaceful approach—no combat in sight. This pacifist choice is a refreshing change, lifting the imaginary weight of conflict, allowing for exploration and immersion without the constant threat of failure. It’s a therapeutic embrace of storytelling rarely ventured in games, giving every emotional encounter room to breathe and fostering a deeper connection with the world and its inhabitants.

Not everything was flawless, though. I hit a few bumps with technical issues like frame rate dips and animations that could’ve used a bit more finesse. Some side quests felt like errands on repeat (go to X, return to Y—wash, rinse, repeat), which could detract from the experience. Sure, these little hiccups made me pause, but they didn’t overshadow the inherent charm of the game.

Despite these challenges, I found myself continually drawn back into the world of Caravan SandWitch. Its vast, intricate landscapes whispered stories, while its atmosphere had a hauntingly hopeful quality that lingered long after my journey ended. Even with credits rolling, the lure of revisiting forgotten corners and reconnecting with the endearing characters was irresistible.

In essence, Caravan SandWitch presents a heartfelt odyssey across a world at once forsaken and beautifully realized. It’s not aiming to grab headlines or break records; rather, it offers a hand and invites you on a tender journey of storytelling and discovery, stirring something in even the dustiest corners of a gamer’s heart. Its imperfections are there, but is this experience worth your time? Undoubtedly.

This review is based on a retail version from the publisher.

Caravan SandWitch Review Summary

• Art Style: 9/10
• Story: 8/10
• Gameplay: 6/10
• Performance: 5/10

Overall: 7/10

With its hand-painted visuals, charming character quirks, and a narrative that unfolds slowly yet poignantly, Caravan SandWitch thrives on exploration over combat. While the indie physics and absence of fast travel might try your patience at times, the journey itself is rewarding. Despite minor technical setbacks and some redundant side tasks, the game’s dreamy atmosphere and emotional resonance make it well worth the expedition.