Caravan SandWitch, published by Dear Villagers and developed by Studio Plane Toast, provides a new blend of exploration, narrative-driven gameplay and world-building. Set in the futuristic yet familiar world of Cigalo, it places players in a post-apocalyptic environment that blends a warm and picturesque look and feel with the challenges of a world devastated by over-exploitation. The game’s narrative premise revolves around finding your missing sister, and while the plot starts with mystery, it unfolds gently, drawing players into a peaceful, contemplative journey rather than a high-stakes adventure with lots of adrenaline. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.
One of the game’s main strengths is its relaxed approach to gameplay. There’s no combat, no looming threats of death, and no strict timers forcing players to rush through. Instead, Caravan SandWitch allows you to explore Cigalo at your own pace, either on foot or in your trusty van. The van itself is central to progression, as upgrading it opens up new areas and opportunities. This mechanic gives a sense of accomplishment, though the process of upgrading can feel a bit slow at times, especially if you’re eager to discover what lies ahead. When we said this is a slower-paced title, we weren’t joking.
The controls are simple and intuitive, though some players may find them slightly too simplistic, especially when compared to the more intricate mechanics of other exploration games. Still, they complement the game’s laid-back vibe, ensuring that nothing about Caravan SandWitch feels overly complicated or frustrating. Navigating the world, whether through rough terrains or ancient ruins, is generally enjoyable, though there are occasional moments where the controls feel a bit clunky, especially when handling the van in tighter spaces.
The narrative and world-building are at the heart of the game’s experience, and Cigalo is populated with various characters, from the native Reinetos species to robots left behind after humanity’s departure, each contributing to a diverse and lively world. The game’s inclusive script also stands out, representing different types of communities and individuals who work together in the face of environmental collapse. This message of cooperation and communal living is woven into the storyline, making the world feel alive.
Visually, Caravan SandWitch presents a beautifully stylized world. The aesthetic is a treat, with sun-kissed landscapes and serene vistas that contrast with the remnants of a post-apocalyptic environment. The game’s art direction captures a sense of beauty amid desolation, making Cigalo an inviting world to explore despite its underlying environmental themes. However, some of the visual assets, particularly character models, lack the same level of polish and detail as the environments, which can be a slight distraction during cutscenes or close interactions.
The audio design complements the visuals well, with a soothing soundtrack that mirrors the game’s relaxed pacing. The ambient sounds of the world, from the hum of your van to the wind sweeping across the desert, help immerse players in the journey. However, the voice acting, though present, feels minimal, and some characters may come across as underdeveloped due to the limited dialogue they have.
Ultimately, Caravan SandWitch stands out as a thoughtful and reflective experience, offering players a chance to engage with an environmentally conscious narrative while exploring a visually captivating world. Its lack of combat and slow-paced gameplay won’t appeal to everyone, but for those looking for a relaxing, exploration-driven game, it offers a rewarding and unique journey. The slower progression and occasional control issues may detract from the overall experience, but the game’s charm, inclusive themes, and aesthetic design make it worth the trip.
Score: 7.1/10
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