Published on: August 16, 2021
Unavowed Nintendo Switch Review: Supernatural Storytelling Shines in Wadjet Eye Games’ Retro Adventure
Unavowed, the acclaimed supernatural adventure by Wadjet Eye Games, has made a notable arrival on Nintendo Switch, bringing its gripping narrative and retro-inspired visuals to a new audience.
Originally released for PC in 2018, Unavowed integrates the classic point-and-click format with a supernatural twist, immersing players in a rain-soaked, present-day New York teeming with demons, Jinn, and otherworldly mysteries.
Wadjet Eye Games, renowned for their contributions to the narrative adventure genre, have crafted a distinctive detective story that unfolds through meaningful choices and character-driven gameplay.
On the Nintendo Switch platform, Unavowed leverages both controller and touchscreen controls, expanding accessibility for handheld and docked play on Nintendo’s popular console.
A Compelling, Replayable Story in the Heart of NYC
Players begin their journey on a stormy New York rooftop, immediately thrust into a world where their character—whose gender and occupation can be chosen—becomes entangled with the titular Unavowed.
This secretive organization, reminiscent of the BPRD from Hellboy, stands as humanity’s buffer against the hidden supernatural forces threatening the mundane world.
Your protagonist’s background—as a cop, bartender, or actor—meaningfully shifts dialogue, puzzle solutions, and narrative options, offering solid replay value.
Throughout the story, the protagonist partners with the likes of Kalash, a wise Jinn and leader of the local chapter, his sword-wielding daughter Mandana, and fire mage Eli Beckett.
As the plot progresses, new allies—each with unique skills—join your investigation.
Notably, a central villain is the very demon that previously possessed your character, making your quest as much about redemption as it is about supernatural mystery.
Point-and-Click Mechanics Optimized for Switch
Whether traversing rain-slicked city streets or exploring haunted subway tunnels, players will find classic adventure mechanics at play.
Inventory management is streamlined for the Switch: by moving the pointer to the screen’s top, players access party members and items, delegating tasks based on each character’s abilities.
Whether it’s speaking with ghosts, retrieving hard-to-reach objects, or solving intricate puzzles, the system is intuitive—though controller sensitivity may require adjustment.
Unavowed employs retro pixel art that pays homage to late-90s adventure games, though some may wish for higher fidelity visuals given the Switch’s capabilities.
Dialogue is fully voiced, with writing that balances compelling drama and mature themes.
The Nintendo Switch version maintains this presentation, though occasional brief pauses between scene transitions are apparent.
Thankfully, these moments rarely impact gameplay, as there are no action sequences requiring split-second reactions.
Dynamic Choice and Meaningful Consequences
A hallmark of Unavowed is its branching narrative.
Throughout your investigation, you’ll face difficult decisions, encounter moral ambiguity, and navigate complex relationships.
The choices you make—ranging from dialogue options to which party members accompany you—can lead to varied outcomes and multiple story paths.
Each playthrough can feel distinct, thanks to the protagonist’s chosen background and the way it influences available solutions and character interactions.
Final Thoughts: A Standout Narrative Adventure on Switch
Rated M for mature themes, violence, and language, Unavowed is best suited for adult audiences who appreciate rich storytelling and atmospheric world-building.
Its thoughtful writing, layered character development, and smart adaptation of point-and-click mechanics make it a standout among indie offerings on the Nintendo eShop.
While its retro visuals and minor technical hiccups may not appeal to everyone, Unavowed on Nintendo Switch is a highly recommended experience for fans of narrative-driven adventure games and supernatural mysteries alike.
With a compelling story and memorable cast, this is a must-play title for those seeking a modern twist on classic adventures.
Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Wadjet Eye Games Unavowed Adventure Kalash Mandana Eli Beckett Nintendo eShop