Review: Under The Island (Nintendo Switch)

There’s no shortage of indie games inspired by classic top-down adventures, especially on the Nintendo Switch. So it takes something a little extra to stand out. Under the Island doesn’t completely reinvent the formula, but it doesn’t really need to. Instead, it focuses on being a fun, easy-to-pick-up adventure with a bright look and a few unique ideas that help it feel different from the crowd. It’s the kind of game that’s easy to get into.

The story follows Nia, who’s moved to Sea Shell Island while her parents work on a year-long research project. Not long after arriving, she meets a girl named Avocado, and the two end up on a mission to collect four mechanical gears to stop the island from sinking. It’s a simple setup, but it works well enough to keep things moving, and the characters add a bit of charm along the way.

The game runs about 10 to 15 hours, and you’ll explore a mix of areas like beaches, snowy mountain tops, and forests. Progression isn’t completely straightforward, as you’ll often need to take a few detours before reaching the next major dungeon. Along the way, you’ll unlock tools like a flame-shooting flower and animal treats that let you guide creatures to solve puzzles or open new paths. Fast travel is also unlocked later on by completing small puzzle challenges scattered across the island.

There’s also a central town/main hub area that you’ll keep coming back to throughout the game. It’s where you’ll find upgrades, get a better sense of where to head next, and discover side quests that reward you with extra hearts and materials. These smaller tasks give you a reason to explore a bit more and break up the main quest in a nice way. The game also mixes things up with different gameplay styles, including stealth and arcade-style mini games.

Bossfights are a highlight. They feel more creative than expected, and one in particular starts in a manner that caught me off guard in a good way. That said, not everything lands perfectly. Combat with the hockey stick can feel a little awkward, especially during tougher fights, and that becomes more noticeable during the final boss. Exploration can also be frustrating at times, especially when it’s not clear which areas are safe to walk through, leading to some trial-and-error moments. The difficulty is mostly fair, but the final stretch of the game is a noticeable step up, so it helps to be prepared.

Even with a few rough edges, Under the Island is easy to enjoy. The dungeons are pretty straightforward, which might not be enough for players looking for something more complex, but the overall experience is still a fun one. It’s a charming, lighter adventure that doesn’t overstay its welcome, and that alone makes it worth checking out if you’re in the mood for something simple and enjoyable.