Josefina Huq
Players in To a T will live the life of a teenager while they navigate their town in perpetual T-pose. The game boasts wholesome themes of diversity and body positivity wrapped in a layer of brightly coloured weirdness, but its gameplay and story may not be engaging enough to keep both children and adults spinning along. Those with an interest in cooking and singing giraffes, having a dog sidekick, and becoming invested in a whacky plot-twist may find this a refreshing opportunity to turn their brain off for a few hours.
Despelote is a nostalgic first-person exploration of childhood, time, and play. This short story is emotionally gripping while the playstyle of kicking soccer balls and listening to conversations is relaxed and contemplative. Despelote will capture the hearts of many, in similar ways to how soccer did for the people and communities of Quito in the early 2000s. An artful experience that made me feel sad, hopeful, and achingly human.
Critter Café is a visually charming cosy game ranging from play that is casual to heavily engaging. While the world is not full of excitement or depth it has moments of charm through its environmental puzzles and the unique designs of its critters.
Blackheart is a satisfying mix of magic shooting, passive-aggressive family dynamics, and intense fight sequences that will keep you dying and respawning for more.
Set against beautiful landscapes populated by a cast of wickedly cool deities, Diets and Deities is a short multicultural rhythm game which seeks to make your body move, your tastebuds dance, and your heart engage with its casual gameplay experience combining deep story themes exploring cultural preservation and consumption.