Review: Caravan Sandwich (Switch)

Caravan SandWitch is that unexpected, heartwarming road trip your gaming collection didn’t know it was missing. Imagine venturing into the world of Mad Max, but instead of chaos and high-speed chases, it’s a gentle journey across a beautifully desolate, post-apocalyptic landscape. At the helm is our protagonist, Sauge, whose quest to find their long-lost sister unfolds from the driver’s seat of a slightly rundown yet endearing van. This game opts for heart and discovery over guns and game-overs, creating an experience that’s more about the journey than the destination.

From the moment I started playing, I was captivated by Caravan SandWitch’s stunning art style. Picture the soft elegance of brushstrokes capturing glowing sunsets and the rustic beauty of ruins overrun by nature—a tapestry begging to be explored. Whether I was meandering over sand-covered hills or navigating the echoes of past industrial hubs, every vista felt like stepping into a living painting. The character designs, too, are delightfully unique, each quirky individual seeming perfectly plucked from an indie comic strip, adding charm and depth to every interaction.

Rather than rushing through, the story unfurls gradually, reminiscent of a long-lost letter from an old friend. It’s deeply personal, striking chords with its sincere moments that resonate with any soft-hearted gamer. My journey wasn’t just about Sauge’s missing sister; it was about meeting fascinating, resilient souls thriving in this fragmented world. There are no dramatic info dumps or exaggerated cutscenes here. Instead, genuine connections and authentic storytelling lead the way. The quest log, cleverly designed like a social feed, adds a playful twist, making me feel like I was browsing a delightfully wholesome version of Instagram.

Driving the van, my faithful, albeit temperamental companion, through Caravan SandWitch, served as its own adventure. The quirky indie-game physics charm wears thin when tight corners seem to magnetically lure you towards cliff edges (trust me, I’ve had more than one unexpected detour). Still, as you progress, the upgrades—like a scanner and grapple hook—open new avenues of exploration. Admittedly, the absence of fast travel did test my patience at times. Occasionally, I found myself wishing for a quicker return to the plot, but the game insists you lean into the journey.

One of the boldest moves Caravan SandWitch makes is its embrace of pacifism. With no combat elements, it stands as a refreshing oasis, allowing players to immerse themselves without the stress of combat or defeat. Instead, the game provides space for its emotional beats to resonate, inviting you to connect with the world at your chosen pace. It’s a therapeutic experience, a rarity in the gaming sphere.

However, it’s not a flawless ride. I did encounter some frame rate drops and occasional clunky animations, along with side quests that veer perilously close to running endless errands (move from point A to B, repeat). These technical hiccups and repetitive tasks don’t derail the experience but could benefit from some refining to maintain narrative momentum.

But these flaws didn’t overshadow the joy of exploring Caravan SandWitch’s immersive world. Each location whispers tales to those attentive enough to listen, promising a haunting yet hopeful atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. I found myself drawn back into the realm to uncover its hidden gems and revisit the characters who felt more like friends than NPCs.

In summary, Caravan SandWitch offers a soulful trek through a world brimming with forgotten beauty. It’s not aiming for Hollywood blockbuster status, but rather seeks to tell a tale, extend a hand, and stir your emotions deeply. It’s not perfect, sure, but the ride is undeniably worthwhile.

This review is based on a retail copy provided by the publisher.

Rating Summary:

• Art Style: 9/10
• Story: 8/10
• Gameplay: 6/10
• Performance: 5/10
• Overall: 7/10

With its hand-drawn visuals, eccentric characters, and a narrative steeped in genuine connection, Caravan SandWitch champions exploration over combat. While its indie game physics and absent fast travel can occasionally be stumbling blocks, the journey offers its own rewards. Despite technical snags and some quest repetition, its dreamlike ambiance and emotional resonance make it a journey you won’t regret.