Vanakatu is a surreal, story-driven action game that takes players on an extraordinary journey through immersive worlds filled with music, light, and vibrant colors. The protagonist, Van Cat, embarks on a quest to track down his cult-leading uncle and thwart his plans for global dictatorship. 

This unique game blends puzzle-solving, turn-based battling, and open-world exploration, offering a distinctive experience that is both captivating and challenging. While Vanakatu is free to play, though, it’s worth noting that it is still in its Early Access stage so its content is still pretty slim.

Explore a visually immersive world

At its core, Vanakatu excels in creating a rich, exploratory environment. Players navigate through three beautifully crafted worlds inspired by the Ottoman Empire, Soviet Armenia, and modern-day Armenia. The open-world design allows for freedom in exploration, encouraging players to discover hidden areas and secrets at their own pace. Puzzle-solving is also integral to the gameplay, requiring keen pattern recognition to unlock doors and uncover hidden keys.

The game also features turn-based battles, which—while not the primary focus—add an exciting dynamic to the storyline. These battles are straightforward and serve to break the monotony of exploration and puzzle-solving. However, the combat mechanics are quite simple and won’t be able to satisfy players looking for a deeper tactical experience. However, the developer's unique artistic style gives the game a distinct aesthetic that sets it apart from other titles. 

Furthermore, the musical score complements the visual experience, though it is not without its flaws. While beautiful, the music does not loop properly, which can disrupt the immersive experience, especially when players linger in the same area for extended periods. Inventory glitches, such as objects appearing as white squares, can also be frustrating. Some rooms have design flaws, including holes that allow players to accidentally leave the area, disrupting gameplay.

Could still use some work

Vanakatu offers a rich and immersive journey through its beautifully crafted worlds and unique artistic style. While its blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and turn-based battling creates a captivating experience, the game’s Early Access status means it is still developing and contains some flaws. Despite these issues, this indie game’s enchanting environments and compelling narrative make it a promising title worth exploring for fans of surreal, story-driven titles.