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SANYA is a game dripping in nostalgia. I was born in the 1980s, so anything that focuses on my ’90s childhood brings back wonderful memories. Though this revolves around a post-Soviet landscape, I loved the wholesome message and the sense of childhood. Additionally, the storytelling was great, and the small puzzles and challenging moments kept me thinking throughout.
This adventure title was developed by helpnode and published by Samustai. It is a side-scrolling title with a fun 2.5D perspective. As you explore the neighbourhood, you realise that Sanya’s world is small and refined. Yet, the game feels massive. Running from point A to B can take forever, and there are things to see and people to talk to en route. This sense of discovery and exploration enhances the childhood message and the innocent nature of the protagonists.
SANYA tells a story of growing up.
The innocence of youth comes and goes in a flash. The world is a cruel place and there is little room for naive people. This sounds horrific, but that is the reality of modern living. However, when you live in this calm and fun bubble, the rest of the world can stay out. SANYA explores this idea of friendship, exploration, and innocence perfectly.
You control Sanya, a young lad who is carefree and loves life. He is new to the block and wants to make friends. His mother gives him a key and tells him to do some chores and explore his surroundings. This is the green light for a summer like no other. New friends and adventures await the adventurous gang.
Simple mechanics.
Every person you encounter wants your help. Whether it is an item or a fetch quest, you are happy to be of assistance. Though this has a sense of monotony, I liked the stories and how each character was portrayed. Additionally, you can be as polite or as cheeky as you like. Consequently, this plays out in 2 unique ways.
As you let the story evolve, you can complete mini-games, ride your bike, and teach your puppy, Pumpkin new tricks. This new-found hound is essential to your progress. Pumpkin will sniff out clues and help retrieve items. Moreover, this cute puppy helps you to start conversations with strangers.
I loved the wholesome nature of the gameplay, but there was too much back and forth. Additionally, there was little guidance and this can leave you feeling confused. I wish the developer had given more clues as I found aimlessly searching a little distracting.
SANYA looks great.
The developer has cleverly shown the world from a child’s perspective. Each adult appears huge compared to their younger counterparts. Moreover, key items are larger and this becomes the norm. As you explore the world, you see everything from the protagonist’s perspective. This simple but clever idea emphasises the core theme.
The audio is a little repetitive but fun. The cheesy music is upbeat and brings a smile to your face. Furthermore, the melancholy elements are complemented by sombre tunes. This was great as each layer is brilliantly intertwined. Additionally, the sound effects are OTT but enjoyable to hear.
Excellent controls.
Though this isn’t challenging to play, the controls are well-considered. The clean UI and responsive inputs ensure that this is a joy to experience. If I’m to be picky, some of the mini-games could do with better explanations. However, some trial and error should erode these concerns.
If you are a completionist, you’ll need at least 2 playthroughs to get through this relatively short game. I didn’t concern myself with this and I enjoyed one detailed attempt. I’m not sure the story or core elements change and playing it again didn’t interest me. Yet, if this is your thing, you’ll need to set aside around 6 hours to finish every aspect.
SANYA is a joy to experience.
Though this isn’t the most testing experience and there is a lot of back and forth, SANYA is a joy to play. The wholesome action is captivating and the clever perspective shift is wonderful to look at. Finally, I loved the new friendships and the childish nature of the core ideas. Accordingly, it is great and I recommend buying it here! Will you make the most of your childhood? Explore your surroundings, make new friends, and understand what it is to be alive.
