In your opinion what qualifications does a game need to be truly considered cozy? Low stakes? A sense of abundance? Invokes a level of self-care or comfort? A captivating storyline? Isn’t a farm simulator? Featured in the Wholesome Direct? What if I told you a recent release Caravan SandWitch encompasses all those attributes and more?
In Caravan Sandwitch players assume the role of Sauge, a determined young woman returning to her post-apocalyptic planet Cigalo after she receives a distress signal from her sister Garance's ship. Strange thing is, her sister went missing six years ago. The narrative unfolds through Sauge's journey across this Provence-like world, as she encounters a variety of characters and uncovers clues about her sister’s fate.
Gameplay
Caravan Sandwitch blends exploration, mystery, and adventure elements in a way that feels both engaging and immersive. Exploration is a key component, with the game's open world filled with shrouded secrets, abandoned structures, and the remnants of civilization once exploited.
The primary gameplay revolves around driving the last working vehicle in the city, a yellow caravan. As Sauge's main form of transportation, the van is crucial to completing the journey. Players must collect parts to upgrade the caravan's features. Parts can be found by finishing side tasks for other characters, or while out exploring.
Side tasks in the game, although optional, are equally compelling. Players can engage with them at their own pace or focus solely on the main storyline of the game. Side tasks range from helping villagers with personal problems to uncovering hidden secrets. These quests not only provide valuable rewards of parts to upgrade your van, but also enrich the game's world and lore. Many side quests are thoughtfully integrated into the main narrative, offering more depth to the beautiful story.
Caravan SandWitch is designed with accessibility and comfort in mind, allowing players to enjoy their time without the fear or penalty of failure. Players can explore the game's world without the worry of dying or losing progress. There are no setbacks or game over screens.
The PC version of this game gives you the option to use controller or keyboard. As someone who usually games on mouse and keyboard, I personally enjoyed playing this game on a controller. It gives more precision to movements, and eliminates the chance of key elements getting lost.
Graphics & Sound
Visually, Caravan SandWitch excels in its soothing art style with muted colors, soft lighting, and whimsical designs that create an overall calm within the chaos.. The game captures the desolation and beauty of a post-apocalyptic world. From luscious green filled caverns to parched sand dunes, you are very much immersed in the aftermath of a diminished planet.
Singing the overall theme of hope , the music and overall soundscape of this game compliment the art style and color scheme of this adventure game.
Final Thoughts
Caravan Sandwitch's story is deeply emotional, focusing not only on Sauge's quest but also on the broader themes of family, hope, and the impact of sur-exploitation. A beautiful game providing a gentle and forgiving experience that prioritizes relaxation and enjoyment over challenge and competition. The game's design ensures that players can savor the journey at their own pace, making it a gratifying addition to any gaming library.
Caravan SandWitch was reviewed on PC and is now available on PC, Nintendo Switch, and Playstation 5.
