REVIEW / Caravan Sandwich (Switch)

Caravan SandWitch offers a gaming experience that feels like a leisurely road trip you never realized was missing from your life. Picture being in a calm version of a Mad Max setting, embarking on a peaceful adventure through a post-apocalyptic landscape. You step into the shoes of Sauge, a character whose name mirrors their laid-back charisma. You’ll drive through the dusty remnants of your planet in a quirky, slightly battered van, all in search of your long-lost sister. Forget about weapons or sudden game over screens—this game is all about the vibe, discovery, and heartfelt moments.

Right from the start, the art style captures you with warmth reminiscent of sunshine peering through a broken window. Caravan SandWitch boasts breathtaking visuals with its soft brushwork, glowing sunsets, and ruins encased in story-rich flora. Whether you’re traversing across sandy dunes or exploring the vestiges of industrial sites, each location feels like a painting you’d want to step into. The character designs add to the charm—they’re endearingly quirky, looking like they leapt straight from an indie comic, each with their own unique traits.

The story unfolds gently, like receiving a heartfelt letter after years of silence. As you search for Sauge’s sister, you’re not just following a path—you’re engaging with intriguing individuals who’ve found ways to survive in this broken world. There’s no overwhelming exposition—just sincere interactions and storytelling that gradually unfolds. A unique touch is the quest log, designed like a social media feed, adding a delightful twist that makes organizing tasks feel familiar and comforting.

Then we have the van—a rusty yet trusty companion in this adventure. Driving in Caravan SandWitch is enjoyable, most of the time. It has a classic indie feel that’s charming until you find yourself unexpectedly flipping your van off a cliff (trust me, it happened). As you move forward, you can upgrade with cool tools like a scanner and a grappling hook, which open up new paths to explore. However, the absence of fast travel can be a bit annoying when you just want to dive back into the narrative, but the game nudges you to enjoy the scenery a bit longer.

One of the game’s standout features is its choice to entirely avoid combat. It’s a refreshing change to wander through a world without the constant threat of enemies. This decision allows you to simply exist, explore, and drink in the atmosphere. It offers a therapeutic escape; it lets you soak up the emotional beats and forge connections at your own pace. Not everything has to be high-stakes, and Caravan SandWitch embraces that notion beautifully.

Although the game isn’t without its hiccups, like occasional frame rate drops and somewhat awkward animations, these issues are minor. Some side quests felt more like errands, with repetitive task structures that didn’t add much excitement. A bit more polish and variety in these areas could elevate the experience considerably.

Despite these minor quibbles, I found myself lingering in the world of Caravan SandWitch longer than expected. Its hidden corners invite exploration, with environmental storytelling that rewards keen observation. Even after finishing, I was drawn back to check on characters I grew fond of and to explore places I’d missed.

In sum, Caravan SandWitch gives you a heartfelt journey through a beautifully worn-out world. It doesn’t aim to be a high-octane thriller—it’s here to tell you a gentle story, offer companionship, and perhaps stir your emotions a bit. While it has its flaws, the game’s journey makes it worth every minute.

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

Caravan SandWitch Scores:
– Art Style: 9/10
– Story: 8/10
– Gameplay: 6/10
– Performance: 5/10
– Overall: 7/10

Caravan SandWitch enchants with its art, whimsical characters, and a slow-building story that thrives on genuine connections. While the indie-style physics and the lack of a fast travel option can test patience, the journey is what makes it worthwhile. Despite technical quirks and repetitive side quests, its dreamlike atmosphere and emotional depth deliver an adventure that’s truly rewarding.