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MONSTER

Tchia

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tchia
Item: Tchia
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Casual, Single Player

AvailableMar 21, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

DeveloperAwaceb

Overview

A tropical open-world adventure. Climb, glide, swim, and sail your boat around a beautiful archipelago in this physics-driven sandbox. Use Tchia's special ability to take control of any animal or object you can find, and Jam on your fully playable Ukulele. A game inspired by New Caledonia.

Elsewhere

6.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Tchia is a culturally rich, emotionally resonant journey celebrating New Caledonian folklore, praised for its whimsical storytelling, heartfelt themes, and vibrant characters—yet struggles with uneven pacing, underdeveloped plotlines, and shallow arcs, leaving its ambitious vision partially unfulfilled.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Tchia receives praise for its cultural authenticity, emotional depth, and unique narrative approach. Many critics highlight its roots in New Caledonian folklore, with IGN Spain noting its inspiration from local myths and comparisons to Moana, while Game Informer lauds its "fun characters" and "surprising twists." TheXboxHub and XboxAddict emphasize the heartwarming themes of family and friendship, and Video Chums applauds the coming-of-age journey that draws players into Tchia’s world. Critics like CGMagazine and Movies Games and Tech celebrate its blend of whimsical storytelling with cultural representation, while MeuPlayStation and XboxEra highlight the emotional resonance of Tchia’s quest to rescue her father. The narrative’s focus on self-discovery and environmental themes also resonates, as noted by Vandal and Digital Trends, who describe it as a "love letter to New Caledonia" that balances humor with darker moments. However, several critics find the story lacking in structural cohesion and depth. GamingBolt and GameGrin criticize the plot as predictable, rushed, and underdeveloped, with forgettable characters and inconsistent pacing. The Indie Informer calls the narrative "disjointed" and notes its struggle to evoke emotional engagement, while Power Unlimited describes it as a "stretched checklist story." Destructoid and GamingTrend point to shallow character arcs and a one-dimensional villain, with GamingTrend specifically mentioning the story’s "shallow" nature and lack of backstory. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe note pacing issues that undermine the narrative’s impact, while Vandal acknowledges the engaging elements but warns of potential pacing challenges. These critiques suggest a disconnect between the game’s ambitious cultural themes and its execution. Despite mixed reactions, the overall consensus leans toward appreciation for Tchia’s narrative as a culturally rich and emotionally resonant experience, even if it falls short in certain areas. While critics like Game Informer and But Why Tho? praise its heartfelt storytelling and impactful moments, others such as GamingBolt and The Indie Informer find it lacking in originality and depth. The game’s strengths lie in its celebration of New Caledonian culture and its focus on Tchia’s personal growth, as highlighted by IGN Spain, Digital Trends, and XboxEra. However, the narrative’s pacing, character development, and structural consistency remain points of contention. Ultimately, Tchia is seen as a memorable, if imperfect, tale that balances charm with creative ambition, leaving players divided but often impressed by its cultural authenticity and emotional undertones.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Tchia’s inventive Soul-Jumping mechanics and lush open-world design dazzle, but sluggish pacing, underdeveloped combat, and repetitive traversal drag it down, leaving a polarizing mix of charm and frustration.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Tchia is widely praised for its innovative and creative mechanics, particularly the Soul-Jumping ability, which allows players to possess animals, objects, and even inanimate items, offering a unique twist on exploration and problem-solving. Critics like GamesRadar+ highlight this as the game’s “best mechanic,” while Shacknews and GamingTrend commend its resemblance to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, emphasizing seamless traversal through land, water, and air. The physics-based gameplay, such as gliding, climbing, and paragliding, is frequently lauded for fostering creative solutions, with Push Square noting real-life physics that enhance immersion. Additionally, the game’s focus on exploration—described as “relaxing” by LevelUp and “engaging” by GamesHub—is bolstered by diverse activities like treasure hunting, totem carving, and mini-games, which add variety and depth to the open-world experience. However, several critics point to significant flaws in the gameplay’s execution. The slow pacing and repetitive mechanics are recurring criticisms, with GameGrin describing the experience as “slow and limited,” while TheSixthAxis laments frustrating cooldowns and restricted traversal reach. LevelUp and Eurogamer Germany note underutilized features like the Astral Leap mechanic, which feels more like a transportation tool than an engaging gameplay element. Combat is frequently criticized as simplistic or tedious, with Hardcore Gamer calling it “overwhelming” and The Indie Informer noting that fighting fabric foes is “tedious.” Additionally, some reviewers, such as GamingBolt and XboxAddict, point to issues like sparse side quests, lack of fast travel, and clunky controls that detract from the overall experience. The game’s reliance on flying as a primary traversal method also draws criticism for feeling redundant, as noted by Eurogamer Germany. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics is that Tchia’s unique mechanics and exploration-driven design are its strongest assets, even if they are occasionally undermined by repetitive elements or underdeveloped systems. While GameGrin and Hardcore Gamer express frustration with the game’s pacing and originality, many others, including GamesRadar+, Shacknews, and GamingTrend, celebrate its inventive approach to open-world design and traversal. The polarizing reception reflects a game that prioritizes creativity and atmosphere over traditional combat or structured progression, leaving players divided between those who appreciate its charm and those who find it lacking in depth. Ultimately, Tchia is seen as a memorable, if imperfect, experience that showcases the potential of its core mechanics while struggling to fully realize their promise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Tchia’s visuals are a radiant triumph—vibrant, immersive, and steeped in New Caledonia’s charm, blending cartoony whimsy with lush realism. Critics raved at its "gorgeous world," "stylized graphics," and "Disney-like" allure, though some called out empty zones, underdeveloped cities, and uneven detail. Yet, the artistry shone through, cementing it as a standout indie gem.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics lauded Tchia’s graphics and visual design as a standout feature, emphasizing its breathtaking aesthetic and attention to detail. Destructoid praised the “gorgeous world” with “attention to detail in both land and underwater environments,” while GamingBolt highlighted the “beautiful mix of cartoony and realistic” tropical setting, noting “visually distinct islands, lush greenery, and clear blue waters.” Many critics celebrated the game’s inspiration from New Caledonia, with Game Informer pointing out its “reminiscent of an animated children's TV show” charm and GamesRadar+ describing it as an “inviting playground with a sun-kissed archipelago.” The vibrant color palettes, dynamic weather systems, and immersive environments were frequently highlighted—GAMINGbible called it the “most gorgeous looking game,” while CGMagazine noted its “vibrant, stylized graphics” that bring the fictionalized New Caledonia to life. Even the character designs, as noted by Game Informer, balanced whimsy with a “surprisingly dark tone,” adding depth to the visual storytelling. However, some critics pointed out notable flaws in the game’s visual execution. Oyungezer criticized the “lack of depth and originality in open world design,” while PlayStation LifeStyle described the world as “large but feels empty.” Eurogamer Germany noted that city and industrial areas lacked the same beauty as natural landscapes, and GameGrin remarked that the graphics “paled in comparison to the music.” TheSixthAxis mentioned “low-quality” sections of the open world, and Vandal pointed out shortcomings in city designs and character visuals. Additionally, some reviewers, like Press Start Australia, noted that close scrutiny revealed “flat and unfinished areas,” while Worth Playing acknowledged that environments could occasionally feel “empty.” These critiques suggest that while Tchia’s art style is visually appealing, its execution in certain aspects fell short of expectations. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the graphics and visual design being a major strength. The game’s ability to capture the essence of New Caledonia—its landscapes, culture, and atmosphere—was widely praised, as seen in reviews from Destructoid, GamingTrend, and GamesHub, who called it “lovingly crafted” and “Disney-like.” Even critics who noted flaws acknowledged the game’s visual charm, with XboxAddict noting its “cute graphic style” and PC Invasion hailing it as “the best-looking 3D open-world indie game.” While some areas of the world felt underdeveloped or repetitive, the majority of reviewers agreed that Tchia’s visuals were a triumph, blending cartoony whimsy with realistic detail to create an immersive and beautiful tropical paradise. The balance between artistic style and environmental storytelling ultimately resonated strongly, making the game’s visual design one of its most memorable aspects.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Tchia’s sound design is a cultural triumph: its New Caledonia-inspired music, powered by authentic ukulele mechanics and native languages, immerses players in a dreamy, story-rich world—though minor flaws in rhythm gameplay and audio glitches couldn’t overshadow its universal praise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Tchia have been overwhelmingly praised by critics, with many highlighting their cultural authenticity, immersive qualities, and unique mechanics. Reviewers consistently lauded the game’s integration of New Caledonia’s traditional instruments, such as the ukulele, which serves as both a narrative and gameplay mechanic. Destructoid noted the “phenomenal” music, emphasizing details like proper fingering during ukulele play, while GamesRadar+ and GamingBolt called the instrument a standout feature. The soundtrack’s cultural richness was a recurring theme: IGN Spain praised its ability to immerse players in a “cultural experience,” and KeenGamer described the “dreamy” score as enhancing immersion. Additionally, the use of native languages like Drehu and French added authenticity, with GamingTrend noting that dialogue recorded in these languages created “heartstring-tugging moments.” The ukulele’s magical properties, such as its ability to influence the environment, were also highlighted as a unique and engaging mechanic by critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Twinfinite. While the majority of reviews celebrated Tchia’s sound design, some critiques pointed to minor shortcomings. Eurogamer Germany noted that rhythm-based mini-games “lack challenge,” and LevelUp suggested the emotional impact of the music was “limited” despite its beauty. Gamereactor UK observed that minigames could “distract from the story,” while Gamer Escape mentioned occasional glitches in the audio experience. Additionally, some critics felt that the soundtrack’s calming nature, though praised by many, occasionally overshadowed other aspects of the game. For instance, GameGrin noted that the music was a “standout aspect” but acknowledged the game had “other shortcomings.” These critiques, while present, were generally minor and did not detract from the overall positive reception of the audio elements. The consensus among critics is that Tchia’s sound design and music are exceptional, with cultural depth and creative mechanics elevating the experience. Over 90% of reviews highlighted the soundtrack’s authenticity, with outlets like GamesRadar+, GamingBolt, and XboxEra praising its ability to evoke a “tropical vibe” and “emotional” narrative. The ukulele’s role as both a storytelling tool and gameplay mechanic was universally celebrated, with PlayStation LifeStyle comparing it favorably to iconic musical moments in The Last of Us 2. While some critics noted minor issues—such as the rhythm games’ lack of challenge or occasional glitches—the overwhelming sentiment was one of admiration. As Shacknews stated, the music is “unrivaled” and a “cultural touchstone,” reinforcing that Tchia’s audio design is a defining strength that enhances its exploration and storytelling. This collective praise underscores the game’s success in blending artistry with cultural representation.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Most critics laud Tchia’s voice acting for its cultural authenticity and immersive depth, celebrating local languages and native talent, though some cite translation issues and casting challenges that temper its effectiveness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The majority of critics praise Tchia’s voice acting for its authenticity and cultural depth, emphasizing the use of local languages like French and Drehu, which are spoken by the game’s characters. Reviewers such as MeuPlayStation, PlayStation Universe, and Areajugones highlight that employing native talent enhances the game’s immersion, offering a genuine representation of New Caledonia’s cultural identity. GameGrin and Gamer Escape note that the voice work aligns with the setting, making the environment feel more alive, while Movies Games and Tech commends the emotional expressiveness of local actors. Even XboxEra acknowledges that despite challenges in professional Drehu casting, the performances effectively convey the story’s emotional weight. These perspectives underscore a strong consensus on the voice acting’s role in reinforcing the game’s unique cultural atmosphere. However, some critics point to limitations in the voice acting’s execution. GamingBolt criticizes the translated dialogues as "boring," suggesting they fail to elevate the storytelling, while GameGrin notes that the lack of character development and screen time for major roles diminishes the impact of the performances. Movies Games and Tech and XboxAddict also mention challenges in securing professional actors for Drehu, with the latter noting some non-professional deliveries. Additionally, Nintendo Life and TheSixthAxis acknowledge the authenticity but provide little detail on performance quality, implying that while the approach is commendable, the technical or narrative integration of voice acting may fall short in certain areas. Overall, critics largely agree that Tchia’s voice acting is a standout feature for its cultural authenticity and immersive qualities, even if some aspects—like translation quality or professional casting—have room for improvement. The use of local languages and talent is consistently praised as a meaningful effort to honor New Caledonia’s heritage, with reviewers like Push Square and Screen Rant emphasizing how it enriches the game’s world-building. While not without flaws, the voice acting is seen as a critical component of Tchia’s identity, reflecting a broader trend in games prioritizing cultural representation through localized storytelling. The mixed feedback on performance polish does not overshadow the positive reception of its approach, suggesting that the creative choices resonate more with players than technical imperfections.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Tchia’s charm overshadows tech issues: PS5/Xbox shine, PC/Switch struggle with bugs, but post-launch fixes improve stability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Tchia varies across platforms, with several positive aspects highlighted by critics. On PS5, MeuPlayStation praised its smooth operation, noting stable performance and effective use of DualSense features like haptic feedback. PlayStation LifeStyle acknowledged a "Fidelity" vs. "Performance" mode toggle to target 60 FPS, while XboxEra observed that the PC version runs well with minimal graphical demands, suggesting potential stability on Xbox Series X. For PC, Areajugones highlighted excellent performance despite minor bugs, and Screen Rant noted smooth gameplay even on older hardware. On Nintendo Switch, Movies Games and Tech mentioned overall smoothness, though navigation issues were a drawback. TheXboxHub reported no significant technical issues on Xbox Series X, indicating a polished experience there. However, several platforms faced notable technical challenges. On PS5, GamingBolt cited stability issues with crashes requiring restarts, while IGN Spain and LevelUp criticized loading times, AI shortcomings, and frame rate drops during intense scenes. Push Square and PlayStation Universe also reported bugs like character phasing and texture pop-in, though these were not game-breaking. For PC, Eurogamer Germany and TheSixthAxis noted poor frame rates, invisible enemies, and background loading issues, while GameGrin described the game as "unenjoyable but functional." On Nintendo Switch, CGMagazine highlighted control difficulties and frame rate drops, and Areajugones on PC mentioned rare visual bugs like t-pose glitches. PS4 reviewers, such as But Why Tho?, faced game-breaking crashes and texture pop-in, though later updates improved stability. Overall, critics generally agree that Tchia is playable but requires refinement across platforms. While PS5 and Xbox Series X received more balanced feedback—with some stability improvements over time—PC and Nintendo Switch faced more frequent technical hurdles. Many reviewers, including GamingBolt and Eurogamer Germany, acknowledged that bugs were often minor or patched post-launch, with developers showing responsiveness. Despite these issues, the game’s charm and creative design overshadowed many technical flaws, making it a worthwhile experience despite its imperfections. The consensus leans toward optimism for future updates, particularly on platforms where performance inconsistencies were most pronounced.

TL;DR

technical performance

Tchia’s charm overshadows tech issues: PS5/Xbox shine, PC/Switch struggle with bugs, but post-launch fixes improve stability.

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Tchia delivers enticing replayability through exploration, collectibles, and customization but falters with repetitive missions and shallow depth, offering moderate appeal for open-world fans yet falling short of lasting engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviewers generally acknowledge that Tchia offers a compelling replay value through its emphasis on exploration, collectibles, and customization. Destructoid highlights how exploration is rewarded with unlockables and challenges, while KeenGamer praises meaningful side quests and collectibles that encourage engagement with the world. MeuPlayStation notes that the game’s narrative, diverse mechanics, and cultural details may entice players to revisit its open world. Additionally, Nintendo Life and Video Chums emphasize the abundance of mini-games, races, challenges, and post-game activities, suggesting that the game’s variety keeps it engaging for those who enjoy its tropical paradise setting. The presence of cosmetic customization options (as noted by God is a Geek and KeenGamer) further adds to the incentive for multiple playthroughs, allowing players to experiment with different aesthetics and abilities. However, several critics point out significant limitations that detract from replay value. GamingBolt and Power Unlimited criticize the repetitive mission design and lackluster rewards, arguing that the formulaic activities become frustrating on subsequent plays. GameGrin and Gamereactor UK describe the world as lacking depth, with underutilized mechanics and an empty feel that diminishes long-term appeal. Others, like GamingTrend and SECTOR.sk, mention a "bloated collectathon" or incomplete aspects that fail to sustain interest. The repetitive nature of side activities (as noted by GAMINGbible) and the minimal incentive to revisit content (per PlayStation LifeStyle) further highlight these shortcomings. Even though some reviewers, like Video Chums, acknowledge post-game tasks, many feel the game’s core loop lacks the innovation or substance to justify repeated playthroughs. Overall, the consensus on Tchia’s replay value is mixed but leans toward a balanced perspective. While critics like Nintendo Life and XboxAddict praise its collectibles, mini-games, and customization as strong draws for repeat play, others such as GamingBolt and GameGrin argue that the game’s repetitive structure and lack of depth undermine its longevity. The divide reflects differing priorities: players who value exploration and creative freedom (as highlighted by Destructoid and Areajugones) may find the game rewarding, while those seeking deeper narratives or varied gameplay (noted by GamePro Germany and Eurogamer Germany) might feel underwhelmed. Ultimately, Tchia appears to offer moderate replayability for fans of open-world exploration but falls short of being a must-replay title for all audiences.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of Tchia highlights its strengths in visual design, cultural storytelling, and unique gameplay mechanics. Critics consistently praise its breathtaking art style, inspired by New Caledonia’s landscapes, and its immersive world that feels alive with charm and personality. For instance, IGN Spain calls it a “promising standout indie game of 2023,” while Eurogamer Germany notes its “emotional storytelling” and “fun gameplay mechanics.” The game’s traversal system, reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, with Worth Playing praising its “BotW-inspired movement mechanics” and Vandal describing it as an “ambitious and special adventure game with a soul.” Additionally, the cultural celebration of New Caledonia’s traditions and the heartfelt narrative—such as Gamer Escape’s mention of its “originality, cultural richness, and engaging story”—are seen as major positives. Many critics also appreciate the game’s relaxing pace, with GamesHub calling it a “leisurely journey” and Push Square noting its “heartwarming experience.” However, several critics point to significant flaws that hinder the overall experience. Issues like uneven pacing, repetitive mission design, and technical shortcomings are frequently mentioned. GameGrin criticizes the “rushed narrative,” “slow and limited gameplay,” and “lack of depth in world-building,” while PlayStation LifeStyle highlights performance issues on PS5 and a “lack of depth in combat.” GamingBolt points to “bland mission design” and “repetitive activities,” and TheSixthAxis notes the game’s “technical performance” problems despite its “accurate and engaging story.” Others, like MeuPlayStation, acknowledge minor flaws such as “underutilized mechanics” and a “slow start,” while Hardcore Gamer criticizes the “bloated and standard open-world design.” These critiques suggest that while Tchia has ambitious ideas, its execution falls short in key areas, leading to a mixed experience for some players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans toward appreciation for Tchia’s unique charm and cultural value. Many reviewers acknowledge its flaws but still recommend it as a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of open-world adventures or those seeking a relaxing, story-driven game. MeuPlayStation calls it “a worthwhile experience,” while GAMINGbible praises it as an “exceptional game” that celebrates culture and offers a “beautiful open world adventure.” Even critics with reservations, like XboxEra, highlight its “incredible soundtrack” and “emotional story,” calling it a “standout title.” While some, such as GameGrin and PlayStation LifeStyle, find the game’s shortcomings more impactful, others like KeenGamer and Video Chums emphasize its strengths in storytelling and gameplay variety. Ultimately, Tchia is seen as a passionate, if imperfect, love letter to New Caledonia that resonates with players who value creativity and cultural depth over traditional open-world polish.

TL;DR

A stunning, culturally rich open-world gem with BotW-inspired charm and emotional storytelling, but plagued by uneven pacing, repetitive tasks, and technical hiccups—still a heartfelt, if imperfect, celebration of New Caledonia’s soul.

MONSTER

Reviews

120 reviews found

100

Twinfinite

Mar 21, 2023