Welcome to EXPlay, (Explain & Play) the review series where we care not for scores, but tell it how it is when it comes to every game we get our hands on, all whilst including some lengthy gameplay, to give you, the reader, the chance to form your own impressions and views while reading and watching.
In this explanatory review, we’re covering Petit Island by developer, Xelo Games:
Petit Island (Nintendo Switch)
In Petit Island, you play as Lily, an adventurous kitten determined to rekindle her Grandpaw’s fading memories. Through photos and journaling, Lily uncovers stories of his youth on the titular tropical island. The narrative is heartfelt and wholesome, blending themes of nostalgia and discovery. Each quest helps you piece together Grandpaw’s past while introducing a quirky cast of characters.
While the storyline is charming, it doesn’t quite stretch its legs (or paws) as far as it could. Character interactions are sweet but often surface-level, leaving you wishing for deeper connections. However, the gentle pace and sentimental undertone make it a cozy experience perfect for a rainy afternoon—or a lazy catnap.
Exploring Petit Island involves snapping photos, catching bugs, fishing, and helping the locals with bite-sized quests. Tools like a fishing rod and bug net are unlocked gradually, keeping gameplay fresh. The bananallama—a banana-shaped llama—serves as a whimsical mode of transport, adding charm even if it’s a bit clunky to control.
Tasks are marked with bold exclamation points, minimizing the need for exploration. While this hand-holding approach keeps stress low, it might leave seasoned adventurers yawning. Inventory management also feels tedious, as tools must be equipped manually. Still, the game’s laid-back rhythm and adorable animations ensure you’ll enjoy every skip, glide, and gallop. Lily’s animation from a slow walk, to run, and then her arms held back in a ‘Naruto-esque’ running animation while at full speed are sure to delight cozy game fans.
Petit Island shines with its colorful, hand-drawn art style. The island feels alive with lush greenery, sandy beaches, and a towering volcano in the distance. Lily’s animations are a joy, from her playful skipping to her umbrella-assisted glides. Every frame oozes cuteness, perfectly matching the cozy vibe.
The audio complements the visuals beautifully. Gentle melodies provide a calming backdrop to your adventures, while sound effects—like the rustle of leaves or the splash of water—add immersion. However, a lack of voice acting leaves dialogue feeling a tad lifeless. It’s a minor gripe in an otherwise polished presentation. And there’s a lot to read, so younger gamers may need help from an adult assistant when it comes time to understand the story and tasks at hand.
Petit Island is a delightful getaway for fans of cozy games. Its heartfelt story, charming world, and adorable protagonist make it an enjoyable experience. However, issues like repetitive gameplay mechanics and shallow character interactions keep it from reaching its full potential. There may be enough here for younger gamers in the delightful world of Petit Island, but veteran gamers looking for more challenge and adventure may want to look elsewhere.
Despite its quirks, Petit Island is still worth visiting—especially if you’re in the mood for a low-stakes adventure. Grab your camera, hop on a bananallama, and whisker yourself away to a world of feline fun. It’s not a purr-fect masterpiece, but it’s one tail you’ll fondly remember.
Game Specifications:
Developer: Xelo Games
Publisher: Soedesco
Platform: Nintendo Switch (eShop)
Category: Adventure, Role-playing
No. of Players: 1 (Single System)
Release Date: Novmber 14, 2024
Price: $29.99
File Size: 1.6 GB
Nintendo.com Listing
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