Guayota immerses players in an intriguing adventure steeped in the rich mythology of the Canary Islands. You find yourself navigating the mysterious Saint Brendan’s Island, where manipulating light and darkness becomes essential for cracking the game’s complex puzzles. The mechanics that allow players to toggle between the real world and a surreal “Plane of Madness” provide an added layer of depth and complexity, turning each challenge into a gratifying brain teaser.
The game truly shines with its eerie atmosphere, bolstered by top-notch sound design that keeps you on edge. The puzzles themselves are a testament to creativity, tasking players with using light sources such as fire and lasers in unexpected ways. One interesting twist is the dual approach to level completion: a fast-paced run that requires dodging traps, and a slower, more methodical route involving dismantling barricades. Intriguingly, the fast-paced approach is the default, and failure boots you into the slower round without any option of backtracking. This novel design choice sets Guayota apart in the puzzle-adventure scene, although it might stir up some frustration among those who dislike having their options reduced.
At around 40 levels, the game is relatively short, but it packs a punch in its concentrated content. That said, the replay value is scant, given that once a puzzle is deciphered, there’s little motivation to return. Nonetheless, for those captivated by the unraveling mysteries, the game offers an enriching experience rooted in the lore of the Canary Islands.
It weaves these mythological elements into the gameplay seamlessly—it’s not just a backdrop, but a core part of the game, enriching the narrative even though it doesn’t delve into the full tapestry of the lore. Although limited in replayability, Guayota’s unique atmosphere, demanding puzzles, and mythological foundation help it stand out. It’s a compelling pick for those who revel in dark, enigmatic realms and appreciate a challenge that exercises both their intellect and senses.
This review draws from a retail copy of the game supplied by the publisher.
