REVIEW / Guayota (Switch) – An Analysis by That VideoGame Blog

Guayota invites you into a captivating journey steeped in the rich mythology of the Canary Islands. As players navigate through Saint Brendan’s Island, they’ll find that light and shadow are crucial elements in unraveling the game’s complex puzzles. The intriguing dual-world system, which lets players switch between reality and a “Plane of Madness,” provides an intriguing layer of depth and difficulty, ensuring that every puzzle solved feels like a well-earned victory.

The game excels in creating an immersive experience, largely thanks to its outstanding sound design. This eerie backdrop enhances the overall atmosphere, keeping players hooked from start to finish. The puzzles you’ll encounter usually involve clever manipulation of light sources, such as fire and lasers, which demand innovative thinking on your part. Moreover, the game brings a unique twist to the standard puzzle-solving formula: each level can be approached in two ways. The first is a frantic rush where you dodge traps at a high pace, and the second is a more methodical route, requiring you to navigate various barricades. It’s worth noting that the fast-paced option is your default; if you fail, you must tackle the slower, more deliberate puzzle without the option to retry the quicker version. This dynamic sets Guayota apart from others in the genre, although it might irk some players who prefer having more choice.

Despite having only about 40 levels, making it relatively short, the game doesn’t offer much in terms of replayability once you’ve cracked the puzzles. However, if you’re someone who loves delving into mysteries, learning about the lore surrounding the Canary Islands, and soaking in a deeply atmospheric world, Guayota serves up a fulfilling experience. Its mythological themes aren’t just decorative—they are woven into the very fabric of the gameplay and puzzles, providing an authentic and well-integrated feel. While the game doesn’t delve into every aspect of the lore, it adds a layer of richness that enhances the overall narrative.

Guayota may not have a high replay value, but its unique ambiance, challenging puzzles, and rich mythological backdrop make it a standout in the puzzle-adventure space. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves exploring dark, mysterious worlds and enjoys having their intellect and senses equally stimulated.

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