By Karoline Castillo-Troncoso

A curious capybara stars in Capy Castaway, a cozy narrative game that encompasses the adventures of the world’s largest rodent and a clever crow called Corvi. They solve puzzles while exploring an island left devastated by a massive flood, and they help other animals along the way. Capy Castaway explores themes of friendship, family, and community as Corvi and Capy meet new people, cultivate relationships, and help rebuild the beloved island — bringing families and lost friends back together. 

The opening scene begins with Corvi, a Castaway native (the name they’ve given the Island), as they discover a plethora of debris, lost items – and a box. 

“D-did that garbage just move?” the young crow questions, spooked. The movement from underneath the box persists, as do Corvi’s questions. “You better not be shimmying and wiggling around to freak me out!”

The box’s every wobble is followed by a whimsical tune that ascends in pitch until a capybara leaps out from underneath. “ACK!! CAW! CAW!” Corvi exclaims, startled. “It’s an oversized gerbil!” I found this comment rather comical, especially considering Corvi’s self-styled characteristic of being a “cooler older sibling.” In response to the “gerbil” comment, the capybara makes an upset – one could say offended – expression. Corvi self-corrects, adding a sense of relatability to the comedic and light-hearted feel of the game.

Capy’s distinct expressions are a recurring element throughout. They’re are the primary medium through which players make choices that’ll influence gameplay and progression of the plot. An example of this is when Corvi asks the capybara for their name. Realizing they can’t talk, the crow begins listing different names from which players can choose. Playing as Capy, players can have them nod or shake their head to choose from the list of names. I chose to have them named “Alex” because they reminded me of a pet guinea pig I once had (though when we ran into one of Alex’s friends from his old home (the zoo), I thought it was only fair to keep the name they had originally: Capy_.

The game’s expression of friendship and team work is reinforced through Corvi and Capy’s relationship, particularly when they encounter bodies of water that need to be crossed. Corvi is able to carry Capy across, at least for a short while. But they eventually grow tired and drop Capy when unable to make it to the other side in time. Then, Corvi reminds Capy of their inability to swim, emphasizing Corvi’s older-sibling role, despite having dropped them.

This reminds me of classic, playful banter between siblings, characterized by teasing and jokingly sarcastic remarks that develop over years of shared experiences. Additionally, I found it interesting to see how the game acknowledged my actions through Corvi’s dialog.

How charming is all this? Memorably, Corvi would break the fourth wall at times. At the beginning, Capy needed to cross a bridge of crates above water in order to get from one island to another. Afraid, Capy was hesitant to cross because of their inability to swim. Nonetheless, Corvi encouraged Capy from the other side. I walked across the makeshift bridge and intentionally walked off and into the water, curious to see what would happen. I was spawned back onto the island to try again. To this, Corvi responded, “Whoa! Did the water just…spit you back out?” I wasn’t expecting this response and appreciated the added charm.

The attention to detail extends beyond the dialog and into the mechanics and immersive nature. There are lost items scattered throughout the map that Capy and Corvi can interact with in a variety of ways. They can be held, worn, eaten (if edible), and they’re often used to complete a puzzle, adding a playful element to the game’s exploration.

Beyond these interactive features, the dreamlike monophony of instrumental music adds to the game’s whimsy and light-hearted feel. Vibrant hues illuminated by the radiant sun further enhance the comfortable atmosphere. The combination of these elements enhances the unhurried feel to the game, encouraging players to explore the intricate details within the laid back atmosphere.

I recommend Capy Castaway to players who are seeking a game to look forward to at the end of a long day because it offers a chance to wind down happily. The game provides a reminder to appreciate the details that tend to be overlooked. It’s so important to cultivate and cherish the connections made along the way, even the everyday ones.

Senior intern Karoline Castillo-Troncoso, currently a first year student at Hunter College, won a Circle scholarship for writing a one-act play featuring a video game

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