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Chicory: A Colorful Tale Review
A recognition of creative minds afflicted by imposter syndrome
There is an inherent noteworthiness to a game that is granted when it takes a stand and speaks about social issues. Games that forego aimless entertainment to make a difference can seem pretentious, but when done right, these treasures can connect to those who relate to their themes. Chicory: A Colorful Tale is a game that does just that, harboring a purposeful story through the synthesis of deeply personal characters, clever painting mechanics, and commentary on societal expectations.
Chicory spoke to me on a personal level. For all of its witty, cute characters, I felt the deepest connection with the protagonist herself, who constantly struggled with the feeling of being in a position they didn’t deserve.
You begin your adventure within the Picnic Province (the food-themed setting of Chicory) as the protagonist goes through the motions at their janitorial job within the Wielder’s Tower. Wielders come from a long line of artists who wield the legendary paintbrush: a magical tool gifting the user the ability to color the world.