Official Review Computer Updated

Caravan SandWitch GBAtemp review
Computer

Name: Caravan SandWitch
Item: Caravan SandWitch
Rating: 7.8
Author: Prans

Product Information:

Release Date (NA): September 12, 2024
Release Date (EU): September 12, 2024
Publisher: Dear Villagers
Developer: Studio Plane Toast
Genres: Exploration, Cozy
Also For: PlayStation 5

Game Features:

Single player

Local Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

Co-operative

In this cozy, semi-open world game, you'll join Sauge in her trusty van as she sets out to find her missing sister on the planet of Cigalo. Should you embark on this journey that Caravan SandWitch offers?

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It’s been six years since Sauge has been to Cigalo, a once lush planet turned desertic due to overexploitation. Against all expectations, she finds herself setting a course there; the reason being a distress signal from the spaceship of her sister, Garance, who has been missing since she left the planet. And so begins Sauge’s adventure across a once familiar place as she looks for her sister and reconnects with her past.

Cigalo: tapestry of a dying, yet hopeful world

Caravan SandWitch strikes with its depiction of Cigalo, a melancholic yet enchanting planet in decline. The ruins of a once lively planet, the scattered settlements and vast, arid deserts tell the silent tale of past mistakes. Yet, amidst the post-apocalyptic setting, hope persists with the remaining inhabitants helping each other out as much as they can. The diverse cast of characters, from Sauge’s old friends to abandoned robots, embody the game’s themes of community and survival.

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The aesthetic that blends sci-fi elements and rustic charm add some originality to Cigalo. Soothing tunes complement the game’s relaxed pace. This is also reflected in the narrative and character development, which are both slow-paced.

A slow-paced exploration of Cigalo

Caravan SandWitch’s gameplay focuses on exploration and light puzzle-solving. Sauge is able to navigate across the game map in a semi-open world fashion either on foot or in her van. The latter even gets some equipment upgrades as the plot progresses to allow Sauge to access previously unreachable areas.

The van controls are smooth, adding to the joy of driving while taking in Cigalo’s landscapes. Those road trips are one of the game’s highlights. That said, there is some occasional need to backtrack after getting new equipment. These segments feel like a chore, and contrasts with the otherwise relaxed nature of the game. A better approach could have been to provide Sauge with her suite of equipments and allow her to set off and explore more freely.

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The game’s puzzle segments are not really challenging but do add some welcome layer of diversity. Whether Sauge has to disable signal jammers or navigate underground areas, the puzzles are rather straightforward and contribute to the game’s overall sense of discovery.

In addition to the main quest, Sauge can also take on side quests. These range from gathering resources to helping locals with their own tasks. These add a community-building aspect to the game that further flesh out the NPCs as they join you on road trips and side quests. Such touches make the universe feel more alive and are among the most interesting parts of Caravan SandWitch.

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Caravan SandWitch: an uneven yet enjoyable journey

Caravan SandWitch stands out with its original world that feels lived-in and invites exploration, in a stress-free manner. Its sense of community as you assist Cigalo’s inhabitants also feels rewarding but the predictable “fetch quest” aspect and the occasional need to backtrack make for a repetitive experience. The slow-paced nature of the plot and gameplay does add to the cosy aspect but the sense of urgency, even if it is present in the background, feels lost.

Nevertheless, Caravan SandWitch will prove to be a compelling experience for fans of exploration games. Cigalo’s intriguing mysteries and interesting inhabitants makes it a journey worth undertaking, even if it is an uneven one.

CARAVAN SANDWITCH - Release Date Trailer

Verdict

What We Liked ...

Original setting that invites exploration
Community-building aspect of side quests
Well-executed cosy aspect

What We Didn't Like ...

Backtracking when unlocking new equipment
Predictable side quests
Slow-paced plot and character development can be divisive

Gameplay

The semi-open world approach lends itself well to a world that invites exploration but this is hampered by the occasional backtracking and same-y side-quests.

Presentation

Caravan SandWitch stands out with its presentation of Cigalo, a post-apocalyptic world in ruins that still preserves some charming aspects.

Lasting Appeal

The slow-paced nature of the plot and character development adds to the cosy but this laid-back aspect conflicts with the underlying urgency of the premise.

7.8

out of 10

Overall

Caravan SandWitch invites exploration with a laid-back approach; even if the journey isn't always a smooth one.

Reactions: CoolMe, profeten, Mama Looigi and 2 others

This is about what I expected for this game. Not outstanding, not dreadful. Got to say the images make the game world look so flat and bland but maybe it's different when you're actually in the driver's seat.

Reactions: CoolMe and GengarsGhostlyGiggles

honestly I'd rather play ps2 with upscaled textures in 4k, they look better than this.

SDA
Sep 12, 2024

Mediocre game.

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CARAVAN SANDWITCH - Release Date Trailer

Verdict

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