There’s a single-button function that gives an estimate of your location, with Tchia pulling back to take the whole nation into consideration before circling a larger spot on the map. As Tchia, you must seek out landmarks to fully grasp your geolocation. Tchia doesn’t have a map in the traditional sense instead, it’s a digital version of a paper map, still a little crumpled from being in the bottom of a backpack. Tchia’s variety and fluidity of movement, experimentation, and exploration make the game a true delight.

In turn, it transforms Tchia from an adventure heavily reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda into something new and beautiful. It’s a mechanic that’s implemented with expert care, despite the sheer number of things Tchia can transform into. Quickly, Tchia learns of a special power she was born with: the ability to shapeshift into animals and objects in her immediate environment. This means navigating far away from her home island and seeking out new lands, rich with lush biomes - everything from red, dusty plains and rusty city buildings to overgrown bamboo forests and wandering rivers. She’s no misbehaving child, but she’s a courageous adventurer as she eagerly sets out to seek out the world’s ruler, Meavora, who’s captured and imprisoned her father. We’re quickly pulled into the story of the titular Tchia and her childhood world. If you want curated lists of our favorite media, check out What to Play and What to Watch. When we award the Polygon Recommends badge, it’s because we believe the recipient is uniquely thought-provoking, entertaining, inventive, or fun - and worth fitting into your schedule. Polygon Recommends is our way of endorsing our favorite games, movies, TV shows, comics, tabletop books, and entertainment experiences.

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