Review: Caravan Sandwich (Switch)

Caravan SandWitch is like that unexpected road trip you’ve always needed—a game where the vibes are just right. Imagine being part of a Mad Max story, but without the wild chaos, and instead embarking on a slow and meaningful journey through a post-apocalyptic landscape. You take on the role of Sauge—whose name is as cool as they are—cruising in a trusty, if slightly banged-up, van across the remnants of your home world, searching for your missing sister. It’s a game without guns or game-over screens, just pure exploration and heartfelt storytelling.

From the moment I started playing, the art style hit me like a warm breeze breaking through a dusty window. Caravan SandWitch is visually stunning—think of gentle brushstrokes, glowing sunsets, and crumbling ruins enveloped by flora that whisper tales of their own. Whether you’re coasting over sandy hills or meandering through the skeletons of old industrial zones, each location feels like a piece of art you’d want to step into. The characters? They’re delightfully eccentric in a way that makes them feel ripped from the pages of an indie comic, each with quirks that make them unforgettable.

The story slowly reveals itself, reminiscent of receiving a letter from a long-lost friend. It’s personal, sincere, and filled with touching moments. This isn’t just about chasing after Sauge’s sister; it’s about engaging with peculiar, fascinating characters who have made their homes in this desolate environment. The game doesn’t bombard you with dramatic cutscenes or massive info dumps—it’s about forging genuine connections and gradually uncovering the narrative. And I have to mention the quest log—it looks like a social media feed, which is oddly endearing and makes tracking tasks feel like scrolling through an Instagram filled with positivity.

Let’s talk about the van, my beloved ramshackle companion. Navigating through Caravan SandWitch can be delightful…most of the time. The quirky indie-game physics are charming until you find yourself failing a sharp turn and toppling off a cliff (been there, done that, let’s not relive it). Upgrades like a scanner or a grappling hook slowly unlock more areas to explore, but not having a fast travel option sometimes tested my patience. There were moments I just wanted to skip the picturesque views and dive back into the narrative, but the game cheekily insists, "No no, darling, enjoy the journey."

One of the best choices this game makes is embracing a pacifist route. There’s no combat, and that, honestly, feels rejuvenating. With no enemies or death looming over, I could simply exist, explore, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. It feels like therapy—allowing emotional moments to unfold naturally and giving me the freedom to explore at my own pace. Not every game needs to be a nail-biter, and Caravan SandWitch gets that.

That’s not to say everything was perfect; there were a few hiccups. Occasional frame rate drops and awkward animations popped up. Some side quests felt like mere fetch tasks, which could become tedious. These issues didn’t overshadow the whole experience, but they did invoke a sigh now and then. A bit of polish and variability in quest design could have really kept the game’s momentum going.

Despite its imperfections, I found myself immersed in the world of Caravan SandWitch longer than I’d anticipated. The landscapes are full of hidden stories waiting to be discovered, and the atmosphere leaves a lasting impression. Even after completing it, I felt compelled to return, checking up on characters I’d grown fond of and exploring missed locations.

In summary, Caravan SandWitch offers an artful and introspective road trip through a hauntingly beautiful world. It’s not about big explosions or grand spectacles; it’s about narrative, connection, and maybe warming that gamer heart of yours a bit. Is it flawless? No, but is it worth the journey? Definitely.

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

Caravan SandWitch Ratings

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

Overall Score: 7/10

With stunning hand-painted visuals, endearing characters, and a thoughtful narrative, Caravan SandWitch prioritizes exploration over action. The journey is the true reward, offsetting the quirks of indie physics and the absence of fast travel. Despite a few technical flaws and repetitive quests, its dreamlike atmosphere and emotional resonance make it a captivating experience.