Retro-inspired point and click adventures, such as Nelly Cootalot and Irony Curtain, which I reviewed recently, have seen a resurgence in popularity. Edna and Harvey: Harvey’s New Eyes, originally released in 2011, has now been ported by the developers for the Nintendo Switch, eight years later.
Players are thrust into an eccentric adventure led by Lilli, a peculiar and mostly silent protagonist. Lilli resides in a monastery, where her days are filled with mundane tasks like tending flowerbeds and raking leaves. The narrative begins when her friend Edna mysteriously vanishes, setting in motion an extraordinary quest.
This title distinguishes itself from others with its unique and somewhat surreal atmosphere. The game employs rounded and charming graphics, yet maintains a subtle adult undercurrent. A narrator guides the player through the adventure, frequently breaking the fourth wall to directly address them.
Early on, it becomes apparent that solving the puzzles will require careful thought; simply guessing will not suffice. Players must pay close attention to details, experiment with items, and revisit locations as new events may unfold. The controls are intuitive, and since the protagonist is mute, dialogue choices are presented as symbols rather than text. This can occasionally be challenging, as it’s easy to forget which symbols have already been tried.
Edna and Harvey: Harvey’s New Eyes is well-suited for portable play on the Switch. The text in the dialogue boxes, however, can appear somewhat small, although it remains legible. The game provides clear direction regarding objectives and interactive elements. The audio design is commendable, featuring engaging voice acting and well-written dialogue.
In conclusion, Edna and Harvey: Harvey’s New Eyes is recommended for its uniquely bizarre entertainment value offered at an accessible price point. It is an excellent choice for on-the-go gaming; if a puzzle proves too frustrating, simply stow the Switch away for a while before revisiting the challenge.
