To a T review: This absurd game has changed my outlook on life

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Playing “To A T” is one of the most peculiar, endearing, heartwarming gaming experiences I’ve had in quite some time. The gameplay might be straightforward, but it’s remarkably engaging, and at times it seems almost like watching a top-tier TV series. Right from the opening scene, I found myself deeply engrossed in my character’s tale, ready to accept as normal the daily sandwich-making rituals of a giraffe, and eager to delve deeper into the intricacies of this inventive and imaginative universe. It’s hard not to wear a perpetual grin while playing this game.>

The game “To A T” was created by uvula LLC, a company established by Keita Takahashi, the mind behind the popular Katamari series. If you’ve ever played those quirky, large ball-rolling games, you’ll get a feel for the humor in “To A T”. Initially, I would have described this game as more down-to-earth, but without giving away any spoilers, let me just say that if you appreciate absurd humor, you won’t be left wanting.

In the game To A T, the main character you create using the provided character builder finds themselves in an unusual predicament: they’re frozen in a T-shaped pose, similar to the standard model used by video game animators when designing characters. This means their arms are rigidly extended to the sides, bending only at the wrists. As a result, they encounter various unforeseen challenges in daily life, such as figuring out how to brush teeth effectively and eat cereal without spilling it for breakfast, among numerous other issues.

The core of this game involves repetition of daily routines such as having breakfast, getting dressed, and washing your face. Your canine companion assists you by serving as a guide when you need direction and staying back when there’s room for exploration. However, as the storyline unfolds, you’ll encounter unexpected developments, hidden secrets, and innovative gameplay elements.

Exploring This Imperfect Town

In this game, the protagonist’s hometown is predominantly inhabited by humans, but there’s an unusual twist: many businesses are operated by animals! For instance, you can find a rabbit or a bear selling new outfits, and four distinct types of food are served by four different giraffes. Even your haircuts can be handled by a friendly crab. This town offers a unique charm that’s both unexpected and delightful. The game also boasts a witty humor that catches you off guard at the most unexpected moments.

At each food stall operated by a giraffe, there’s a mini-game to play. The first giraffe you encounter challenges you to a timed sandwich-eating contest. In the ice cream parlor, you have to tilt back and forth to scoop up ice cream onto cones. There’s no compulsion to join in these mini-games. I stumbled upon one food stand that I hadn’t discovered earlier, and it made absolutely no difference to the gameplay. To A T can be completed within approximately five or six hours, but if you wish to linger longer in this delightful town, there are plenty of opportunities to do so.

One of the initial skills you gain access to is the talent to whirl like a helicopter and move about freely. This skill proves useful several times during the narrative before your character deems it a power worth developing. Once perfected, you’ll be able to traverse greater distances. Among other things, you can accumulate coins, purchase new outfits, engage in mini-games, and so forth. To A T combines aspects of adventure exploration games with those of collect-a-thon 3D platformers. This game is brimming with entirely optional side content that can consume numerous hours, including collectibles and challenges.

PROS:

  1. Impactful message delivered well;
  2. absurd sense of humor that lands;
  3. creative gameplay elements that enhance the story;
  4. clever worldbuilding, even with a ridiculous premise.

CONS:

  1. Gameplay can be simplistic;
  2. some story beats work, but could be improved.

Building a Perfect World

In the initial stage of the game, the main character reaches their 13th birthday. Given that they’ve been living as a T for such an extended period, it’s only fitting that they possess ingenious strategies for coping with their existence. A smartly engineered sink, which arcs water upward when activated, enables the protagonist to cleanse their face and rinse their mouth effortlessly by leaning forward. Oversized items like spoons, toothbrushes, and pencils are humorously elongated to compensate for the character’s rigid elbow joint. Not every aspect is explicitly pointed out, but it all serves to highlight the designers’ meticulous attention to detail in creating a realistic and accommodating world for this unique character to thrive in.

Occasionally, “To A T” seems to unfold like an amusingly rapid series of an eccentric anime. It brings to mind series such as “The Art of House Husband” and “Space Dandy“, albeit with significantly less violent content. The narrative incorporates a few perilous instances, but essentially, it’s a comedy that intersperses light drama and a tender sentiment throughout. This particular style may not appeal to everyone; it’s quite animated, whimsical, and its humor can induce both groans and smiles. If you watch the trailer for “To A T”, you will likely determine by the end of those brief melodic sequences whether this is an experience that suits your taste or not.

Beyond the world and captivating plot, To A T boasts one of the finest ensembles for a small, brief game. Characters like the eternally uneasy science teacher Mr. Mushroom, the bear who deals in pants, a boxing snail, and a crab barber are just a few examples that leave lasting impressions. Even early antagonists show signs of transformation quickly.

What Does it Mean to Be Perfect?

The recurring chorus of the game’s theme song persistently emphasizes, “You are the ideal form!” However, To A T questions the very definition of what being “perfect” truly encompasses. Every day, the main character enjoys a different variety of cereal for breakfast, and the milk accompaniment varies too. Sometimes it’s mango milk or squid ink milk, which don’t always pair well with gummy or salty cereals. Yet, regardless of the combination, the protagonist eagerly looks forward to the experience each time.

In the story, the main character’s aunt operates a beachside eatery that requires visitors to walk through shallow water to enter. Although the food is excellent, those who don’t mind wet feet are hard to come by. The game’s name, “To A T,” refers to the protagonist being stuck in a T-pose, but it also means everything is perfectly organized and as expected.

If you decide to play, it would be better if you discover the story on your own. However, there are certain parts of the game’s ending that make this point quite strongly. I’ll try my best not to reveal any spoilers, but just a heads up, you might want to avoid reading or hearing anything about the game before you start playing.

As the game nears its conclusion, the main character clashes with a different individual who strives to alter things to achieve what they see as “perfection.” I must admit, their introduction of this character leaves something to be desired. However, I admire how this person encourages the protagonist to ponder and debate the merits of imperfection – such as forgiving tormentors for their mistreatment, taking the time to visit a beloved relative’s diner despite its simplicity, and earning an accomplishment by pouring milk before cereal. All these imperfections are what give life its charm. Perhaps there is no true perfection, and that’s just the way things ought to be.

Final Thoughts

In simple terms, “To A T” is a game whose message lingers in your memory for a long period, even after you’ve stopped playing. Although it’s not been years since I played it, I believe the message will stay with me for a long time. The concept of chasing perfection means striving for excellence without flaw or error, yet being open to accepting imperfections in others and oneself. In the game context, this could mean not needing to collect every coin in the hedge maze to progress, even if it consumes valuable playtime that could be spent enjoying the game more. These are questions I’ve pondered and will continue to reflect on, and “To A T” offers thought-provoking answers on these topics.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that To A T’s gameplay may not captivate everyone, yet it significantly enhances the overall immersive journey. The unique charm of this game lies in the mundane tasks such as pouring cereal or washing one’s face daily, which add depth to the narrative. To A T truly showcases the power of interactive storytelling in a way that resonates deeply. It may not be flawless, but as the game consistently emphasizes, its imperfections are what make it truly valuable.

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2025-05-28 16:02