Tchia

This game is reminiscent of Breath of the Wild with all the exploration and added sense of serenity and comfort. Tchia is easily the coziest of "cozy games," as there's warmth and detail in everything from top to bottom. A few islands serve as a playground for players to explore to their heart's content. It's easy to forget there's a main quest as every square inch of land contains so many satisfying minor quirks. When it comes to getting around, there are many movement options available, including the old-fashioned on-foot trek, a customizable raft to take to the seas, leaping among the trees, and a unique skill Tchia can utilize called "soul jumping," where Tchia can temporarily inhabit not only many random objects, but also any surrounding animals. Certain animals have specific functions that can be used to solve puzzles -- or that will undeniably make players laugh or go "Awww" with genuine delight.

Tchia can also bust out her ukelele, either casually or during crucial story moments when her compassion is needed most. The ukelele is a fully realized instrument, complete with individual notes that have sharp and flat variations. Players can jam on the ukelele, or they can use it to play "soul melodies." Soul melodies can change the weather and attract certain animals, alongside other substantial surprises and advantages. If all that wasn't enough, the islands themselves have many hidden nooks and crannies containing either mission-critical items or simple, adorable attire changes for Tchia. Players can approach the game any way they choose, with a sea of boundless choices before them. There are more than enough colorful characters, fun activities, creative puzzles, and breathtaking locations to keep players enthralled for hours on end. Tchia might not be the loudest, most aggressive voice in the gaming landscape, but its soothing tones are here to give players an easygoing, personable experience that exudes personality in a way few other games accomplish.