REVIEW: Guayota (Switch) – Featured on That VideoGame Blog

Guayota is an intriguing journey steeped in the rich lore of Canary Island mythology. As players traverse the mysterious Saint Brendan’s Island, they’ll find that the interplay of light and darkness is crucial for unravelling the complex puzzles that lie ahead. The game’s dual-world system, which allows you to switch between the real world and a “Plane of Madness,” injects a layer of complexity and excitement, making each puzzle-solving session deeply satisfying.

The game pulls you in with its eerie ambience, elevated by remarkable sound design that enhances the immersive experience. The puzzles, often involving clever use of light sources like fire and lasers, require an inventive mindset. A unique twist in the gameplay is the dual completion paths for each level: a fast-paced, action-packed route laden with traps, and a more deliberate path where you must navigate through obstacles. What’s interesting, though a bit disconcerting, is that failing the quick route means you’re automatically pushed into the slower one, eliminating the choice of trying the fast path again. This novel feature certainly sets Guayota apart in the puzzle-adventure landscape, but it may leave some players yearning for a bit more agency.

It’s worth noting that the game is relatively brief, featuring just about 40 levels to tackle. While this offers a concise experience, it does mean that once you crack the puzzles, there isn’t much to draw you back for another playthrough. On the flip side, if you’re someone who relishes delving into mysteries, soaking up Canary Island mythology, and getting lost in a rich atmosphere, Guayota delivers a compact yet fulfilling adventure. The way it integrates mythology isn’t just surface-level; it’s deeply embedded in how you play and solve puzzles, enhancing the game’s authentic feel. Even though it doesn’t plumb the deepest myths, these elements undoubtedly add narrative richness.

Guayota might not win any awards for replayability, but its distinctive setting, intricate puzzles, and mythological themes make it a noteworthy addition to the puzzle-adventure genre. If you’re someone who loves exploring dark, mysterious worlds and enjoys games that engage both your intellect and senses, this title is definitely worth your time.

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