to a T Review

Developer: uvula LLC

Platforms: PC (Reviewed), PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Genre: Adventure

Publisher: Annapurna Interactive

To a T is a narrative adventure game. This game was developed by uvula LLC and published by Annapurna Interactive. To a T is similar to games such as Katamari Damacy or Wattam created by Keita Takahashi, who puts absurdity in his games. This review is done for the PC version, but the game is also available for Xbox Series X|S, Game Pass, and PlayStation 5.

Players assume the role of an extraordinary 13-year-old teen whose body is in the shape of a T. Teen faces several daily challenges with his arms stretched horizontally at all times but finds great help with his dog. Despite the unusual physical condition, Teen tries to live a normal life in a small, seaside town, though he despises going to school as he gets bullied. It’s only until later that Teen finds out about something strange that makes life a bit easier. To a T is a quirky, heartfelt third-person adventure game where you embrace being yourself, learning about your identity and enjoying the humour that comes with adolescence.

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To a T recommends players play with a controller, which is something that I extremely agree with. Many instances in the game will get you to play a mini-game, and I found that playing with a keyboard/mouse made certain movements less fluid. I had initially played a bit of the game with a keyboard, and it was manageable, but after I had switched to the controller, the movement was a lot more seamless and controlling both arms was so much easier. One area that got me to switch to a controller was Ms.Swan’s exercise. The controls on the keyboard were unresponsive due to input latency, which made me mess up the beat several times. I would definitely recommend that you play the game with a controller to have the best experience.

The game itself ran quite nicely, with bright visuals and seamless animations; however, there were several bugs that I would encounter which would cause my character to freeze. Most of the time, the running animation would ‘glitch’ out, and running into someone would get the character to stop running. I’m glad that after restarting the game from those bugs, everything was still saved up to date. Besides the little bugs, to a T does not fall short in other areas.

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To a T features delightful visuals that are charmingly blizzard but are quite heartwarming. The game is packed with whimsical, anime-style cutscenes that feel as though you have stepped into a cartoon show, one in which you are in control. I quite liked the transition between gameplay and story, which felt seamless and gave the entire experience an interactive animated film feel. The animation style is funky and distinct, which captures childlike aesthetics that are captivating and surreal. If you are unfamiliar with Keita Takahashi’s previous games, then to a T serves as a perfect entry point for new players as it captures the sense of joyful absurdity. Everything you encounter in this small, cosy town is bursting with character and colour, from exaggerated expressions to detailed environmental elements.

Complementing the visuals are quirky dialogue noises from the characters, each bringing out their personality. It almost sounds like a blend of animal-crossing sound effects with the muppets. The sound effects made the game even more captivating, but nothing beats the soundtrack. The blend of piano-led melodies that are so upbeat. Plus, when you explore new areas, the music will change to match the mood, which is much more pleasant. In terms of the soundtrack, the musical numbers such as ‘You are the Perfect Shape’ or ‘I am a Giraffe’ are so catchy that I’d be singing to them even whilst I wasn’t playing the game. Those songs added such a different and fun vibe to the game, which I adored.

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To a T thrives on its unpredictability, embracing a level of weirdness that you will not find in many games. One moment, you’re eating lunch on the rooftop of your school, and the next, a giant windmill flies over your head. These surreal moments define the game’s charm. What’s so interesting is the idea of perfection that seems to be told underneath the absurd narrative that to a T has to tell. Because Teen is in a permanent “T” pose, they happen to discover tornado-like powers, which add to the gameplay and bring in an unexpected narrative twist. The way the story leans into its limitations, transforming these into moments of power and humour, makes the gameplay even more satisfying. Players will definitely enjoy the twists and turns the game has to offer, and I would say more about the narrative, but I can’t give away any spoilers. All you need to know is that you will have no idea what’s going to happen next.

As said earlier, to a T, it feels as though you’re watching an animated series. There will be sequences where characters break the fourth wall, and the episodic structure makes players experience everything and makes the game so much more immersive. The dialogue and interactions between characters are quite funny; the best part is the visuals and cutscenes, which help further tell a story. At times, it did feel like things were happening out of nowhere, but I enjoyed that. It’s quite nice how, in between episodes, you had the opportunity to explore the town. I would go around collecting coins, buying clothes, finding telescopes (vista points) and searching for wacky hairstyles. I appreciate the fact that you have the ability to do certain things in the game rather than be forced to do them. For instance, you don’t always need to eat breakfast or wash your face sometimes; you can go to school barefoot. Live your fullest as a 13-year-old teen and let your fashion sense thrive with the endless selection of clothes and accessories this game has to offer. Parts of the game where I was just enjoying the town and exploring was so much fun as I was able to focus on achievements and just relax.

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One of the standout features of to a T is the inclusion of replayable mini-games, which adds a fun layer of challenge and replay value. There are several mini-games and tasks that teen needs to carry out, and I always found myself getting extremely competitive, especially during the speed-eating challenges. I particularly enjoyed Swan’s warm-up exercises, which had me repeatedly coming back just to perfect every movement and earn the achievement. The mechanics at this moment are simple but extremely satisfying, as you need to master timing and rhythm. To a T is a fun and exciting game where you will always have something to do!

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If you’re looking for a game that embraces quirky, heartfelt storytelling, surreal humour vibrant art, then to a T is an experience you do not want to miss. Vibrant visuals, whimsical cutscenes, outstanding soundtrack, and an underlying message to the narrative are created through such a whacky adventure. Step into teen’s shoes, spread your arms wide, and face challenges head-on. Be sure to check out to a T, as it’s weirdly wonderful!

Overall: 9/10