Tell Me Why Reviews
Tell Me Why offers a much-needed reshaping of the choose your own adventure games, moving away from cliffhangers and dramatic, distinct choices towards a more gentle and meaningful experience. The game features bouts of magic realism, but is most magic in its human moments. All the major choices shape your character's experience more than their actions, and while the first, introductory chapter occasionally feels shallow, later chapters are overflowing with depth.
Ultimately, Tell Me Why taught me how to not be defined by my past, and gave me the tools to thrive in the future. In a time where I needed hope perhaps more than ever, Dontnod delivered it. For that, their masterpiece has firmly cemented itself as my absolute favorite video game I've had the pleasure of playing.
While Tell Me Why may draw people in because of a transgender character, it offers far more than just that. It presents a complex, psychological narrative that doesn’t use minorities as mere tools to shortcut emotional responses from its players. Take note.
Backed by stellar writing, a gorgeous presentation and the culmination of years of innovation in the genre, DONTNOD's latest episodic narrative game is their best yet
I’ve no hesitation in saying that Tell Me Why is Dontnod Entertainment’s best game yet.
Stellar writing and performances are paired with refined mechanics and an overall vibe that makes the whole thing seem effortless.
Woke, but not broke. A great implementation of the first playable trans character in gaming; but overall, a really good story!
In conclusion I can be very clear about Tell me Why. This new title by Dontnod will undoubtedly delight all those who have enjoyed previous works of both the studio and the genre. It is a much more adult game that tackles complex topics of great interest in today's society, so it may personally be much easier to fit in with the audience for these works. It is even a great opportunity to introduce you to the genre, because Tell me Why is as accessible as it is spectacular.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Dontnod knows just what it wants to say and it says it beautifully.
Dontnod Entertainment's latest character-driven adventure delivers a gripping whodunit served with a side of unabashed social progressiveness
Tell Me Why uses everything it can to get you invested. The puzzles are creative and often use the game's systems in a way you might not expect, while the characters are incredibly interesting and the story is powerful.
Normally I would have to turn to the indie scene for any sort of good trans rep. But it seems the tide is turning, with Dontnod leading the charge. Whether other studios actually follow suit is unknown. But for now, Tell Me Why is a game way overdue; a captivating story, a huge win for diversity and a thoughtful, heartfelt experience.
Tell Me Why is a conversational adventure that follows the vein of previous titles in the genre. But that, thanks to its history, its interesting playable elements, decisions and characters, it becomes a game of its own, without the need to enter into comparisons. And also in a pleasant surprise for Xbox Game Studios. We can't say much more. Just that you are encouraged to meet the Ronan twins because they will surely conquer you and we are waiting for many more titles like this to launch on Xbox Game Pass.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Tell Me Why is a memorable experience that's done well. The adventure portions are a good reminder to adventure game fans that the classic experience of logical puzzle-solving is alive and well, but the narrative becomes the driving force for completing the title. From the natural reactions to the characters to the assurances that the subjects of culture and transgenderism aren't just there for show, everything is elevated to the level of some of the best television dramas. For those who want something that's still considered new in the gaming landscape, Tell Me Why is a title that's well worth checking out.
When it comes down to it, Tell Me Why is yet another solid story from Dontnod Entertainment. It's groundbreaking in its approach to representation, and yet it doesn't make that the focus of the story. Of course, this won't be a game for everyone, but those looking for fantastic writing, fun pop culture references and emotional storytelling will be in for a good time. The amazing performances and music also make it a stellar presentation.
I am a big fan of both narrative adventure and episodic games. Over the course of this generation, Dontnod has provided us with some great stories that stick with me to this day. So when I say that this is their best work to date I don't make that comment flippantly. There are themes tackled in this game that we don't see enough of and they are done so in a mature and natural way. It really is great to see boundaries being torn down. Tell Me Why is a must-play title.
Everyone should play Tell Me Why for what it says about how we often neglect or don't recognize the love of those around us and how that can effect everyone, not just ourselves.
It's a shame that the gameplay is so shoddy at times, because I truly believe that Tell Me Why is one of the most important games of our time, in terms of social impact. Hopefully later episodes won't feel as awkward to play.
Tell Me Why could be the best game from Dontnod, but their gameplay is not as charming as the first time. Fortunately, the game offers one of the best stories this year so far.
Review in Slovak | Read full review
It's a game about trauma and how it affects all of us in different ways. How we treat it. How we self medicate and how we can move past it with help.