Venba

 Switch
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. NintendoWorldReport
    Jul 31, 2023
    65
    Venba packs an emotional punch, but it also pulls its punches a little bit, too. There’s more to this narrative and this family that deserves to be included in the experience, and while the cooking segments definitely sing, I’m ultimately left feeling like I’ve been served an appetizer rather than a main course. It’s beautiful in its colorful but minimalistic presentation and has a fitting musical score. I’m just longing to spend more time in Venba’s charming kitchen and to be invited to share in more of the moments in her life.

Awards & Rankings

47
#47 Best Switch Game of 2023
61
#61 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2023

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.2

Mixed or average reviews- based on 5 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 1 out of 5
  1. AnnoyingDog
    Aug 30, 2023
    10
    Wow, I loved this! It's short but packs a punch! The story gets quite sad and I was crying by the end. However, the art is stunning and theWow, I loved this! It's short but packs a punch! The story gets quite sad and I was crying by the end. However, the art is stunning and the cooking mini games are cool. I'm so glad I gave this a go!… Full Review »
  2. pepcorn
    Aug 4, 2023
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click full review link to view. A truly beautiful game, with many touching scenes and ruminations on roots and culture. I'm Middle Eastern–European, so it was a nice voyage into Tamil culture, of which I know little. But I wish there had been just a little bit more to the game. The most touching part of the story happens off-screen. [!!! SPOILERS AHEAD !!!]

    I would have liked to fix the recipe book alongside Kavin. But I'm glad he did it. He was able to find courage and embrace what makes him unique in a Western society that seeks to make us all bland.

    I think another touching aspect to the story is that it delves into how parents can't base their life around their children. It's a temporary task. But if you were kind, and you live long enough, maybe they'll come back to you one day.

    Lastly, I appreciated that Kavin breaks the gender mould touched upon in the opening scene of the game. He learned to cook, even after growing up with the example of his father never applying himself to it. It was an admirable and aspirational moment. Food is a deep part of our identity, and preserving and celebrating the recipes handed down to us is beautiful work because of that.    … Full Review »
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