Originally released in 2012 for PC and subsequently ported to iOS in 2016, the point-and-click adventure Primordia has now arrived on the Nintendo Switch. This cyberpunk title is a gem that may have been previously overlooked by some.
Set in a remote future, long after the extinction of humanity, the world is now inhabited by robots facing their own decline. The struggle for spare parts and energy is constant. Our protagonist, Horatio Nullbuilt, and his sardonic companion, Crispin, spend their days maintaining their ship, studying The Book of Man, and reflecting on the era before the cataclysm. Their survival is threatened when another robot steals their power source, forcing them to embark on a quest to retrieve it.
Primordia features a distinctive retro aesthetic. While the game is a decade old, its visual style evokes an even earlier era of computing. The voice acting is exceptionally well-cast, adding depth to each character. The sound design, encompassing effects and music, creates an immersive atmosphere. The narrative’s conclusion is shaped by player choices made throughout the game, offering seven distinct endings and encouraging replayability. Puzzles generally have logical solutions, often readily apparent upon closer inspection. An early puzzle, initially perplexing, yielded a surprisingly simple and intuitive solution.
Originally designed for PC, Primordia is optimized for mouse and keyboard control. Using a controller can feel somewhat cumbersome. While sensitivity adjustments are available, finding the optimal setting can be challenging, often necessitating frequent adjustments based on the context. This is a minor issue, but can become noticeable during extended gameplay sessions.
Primordia performs well in both handheld and docked modes. The game’s angular design is complemented by high-resolution assets, and an interactive highlight feature prevents players from missing key elements. Text is small but remains legible even on the Switch’s smaller screen.
In conclusion, Primordia is a well-crafted point-and-click adventure, featuring a compelling narrative that encourages exploration. The multiple endings contribute to significant replay value. Therefore, Primordia warrants a strong recommendation for fans of the genre.
Wadjet Eye Games provided a review code for this title. Content providers do not influence our editorial process. Our independent reviews are written for our readership.
