Five years after its debut, indie darling Chicory: A Colorful Tale continues to offer a unique and emotionally resonant experience. Developed by Greg Lobanov and published by Finnji, the game has been lauded for its distinct approach to themes of pressure, imposter syndrome, and mental health, all wrapped in a charming, colorful package.
Comparisons to The Legend of Zelda are understandable, given Chicory's top-down perspective, environmental puzzles, and ability-gated exploration. However, the game's core mechanic centers around a magical paintbrush, transforming mundane actions into creative acts. Instead of Link's fire rod, players use paint to illuminate dark areas, grow plants to create new pathways, or even cross vast expanses. While the puzzles require thought, the emphasis is on experimentation and observation rather than outsmarting complex mechanics.
Combat is notably absent for the most part. The only encounters that resemble traditional combat involve boss battles where players must dodge projectiles while using their paintbrush. Exploration of the game's world, Picnic, is free from hostile monsters, allowing players to focus on its narrative and artistic elements. The protagonist, a canine named after the player's favorite food (defaulting to "Pizza"), stumbles upon Chicory's lost paintbrush while working as a janitor. Finding the brush's true wielder's room empty and the world drained of color, the player embarks on a journey to restore vibrancy.
Chicory's narrative delves deeply into the pressures associated with expectation and talent. Initially, the player character freely paints, enjoying the act without any external demands. This early freedom contrasts sharply with the burden carried by the game's namesake, Chicory, the brush's former owner. Overwhelmed by self-doubt and the expectations tied to wielding the powerful brush, Chicory succumbs to depression. This internal struggle is visualized as the "Corruption," a dark force born from the anxieties and fears of those who bear the brush's mantle.
The game garnered widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with Polygon ranking it as the second-best game of 2021. Its enduring impact lies in its sensitive portrayal of depression and impostor syndrome, themes rarely explored with such depth in interactive media. Unlike many games that focus on the player as a destined hero or a powerful warrior, Chicory emphasizes that inherent worth does not require extraordinary abilities or accomplishments. The game actively reassures players that they do not need exceptional artistic skill or lightning-fast reflexes to progress. Even challenging boss encounters can be mitigated with instant respawns, an optional invincibility mode, or the ability to skip fights entirely, making it an ideal choice for players who value a compelling story over high-stakes gameplay.
Chicory: A Colorful Tale is also a relatively brief experience, completable in under 10 hours for those who wish to rush through. However, the game encourages a more leisurely pace. Rushing would mean missing opportunities to engage with the vibrant NPCs, explore the beautifully painted environments, and appreciate the evocative soundtrack by Celeste composer Lena Raine, which has recently seen new arrangements. The full experience of Chicory is best savored by taking the time to paint the world and interact with its inhabitants.
Available on Nintendo Switch, Mac, PlayStation, Windows PC, and Xbox, Chicory: A Colorful Tale continues to serve as a beautiful, colorful adventure that encourages self-compassion. It remains a worthwhile experience for those seeking a break from more challenging games, a relaxing pastime, or simply a chance to indulge in digital coloring.