Hey everyone, happy 2023! I'm Phil Crifo, Director of Games at Tchia and Co-Founder of Awaceb. This past year was full of energy and excitement for us and I wanted to update you on Tchia's progress and give you an idea of the game. As you can see, there's still a long way to go, and we're excited to announce that the game is coming to PS4 and PS5 this spring (stay tuned).
Journey to our home
As you know, Chia is inspired by our home country of New Caledonia and it was very important to us that the people working on this game experience first hand its landscapes, wildlife, culture, languages and customs. If you're interested in learning more, we've published a three-part series on the subject.
Everything at Tchia is steeped in the local New Caledonian culture. It contains all the different landscapes that we have recreated in an open world archipelago that you can explore, swim, sail or even take a walk if you feel like it.
This also applies to our characters that you will meet on your journey. We have worked with local talent to give everyone a voice in Drehu (one of the oldest indigenous languages of New Caledonia) and French. Since you are free to explore the Tchia Archipelago, we recommend that you try different side missions to get to know some of the islanders and learn more about their culture and personalities.
After all, music is an integral part of your adventure. All sounds and melodies are inspired by the traditional culture and folklore of New Caledonia. You'll try it out for yourself with your trusty ukulele. More on that below.
stages of development
2022 is also the year that Shea makes her last appearance.
To celebrate the imminent end of this wonderful adventure and to thank you for your support and patience throughout development, here are some of the highlights you can expect from Tchia.
Spirit flight
Soul Leap is called one of the main mechanics in Tchia. Soul Leap lets you control any creature or animal you can find. With every theme, we mean exactly that. Swim like a turtle, fly like a dove, jump on enemies like a flashlight, and so on. Did you secretly wish you were a coconut? Well, now is your time.
Each creature or animal you own allows you to experience certain moves. And with a little skill, you'll learn a unique trick that allows you to combine spirit leaps and even use a secret feature we call canon spirit. You must be careful not to use stamina while maintaining control of your animals or items. As you explore the world and complete challenges, you build your stamina for more Soul Leap action.
harp
This fully playable Tchia ukulele will be your faithful companion on your travels. It is fully playable and we can even recreate some famous melodies by playing the different chords and notes included in this system. You'll also find events scheduled to teach you about traditional music, but don't worry if percussion isn't your thing. Tchia is very affordable, so even ukulele beginners can master this challenge. Achieving 100% may be a different story, and we look forward to some of you taking on the challenge.
Finally, his harp allows him to activate a special "soul tune". Once unlocked, these mystical melodies will affect the world around you, from changing the weather to summoning plants and magical creatures to make your journey easier or get to certain points of interest faster.
to learn
Exploration into the heart of Xia. With the Tchia Palm Leaf Braided Glider, you can climb freely on any surface and float in the air. While Chia is in the air, you can use special tricks to spin in different ways and show off your acrobatic skills. These skills can also be put to the test in trampoline challenges, so stay tuned! It's just one of the various mini-game challenges that you can enjoy. There are also races, shooting ranges and even claw machines. Each offers rewards ranging from items useful for continuing your mission or for customizing Tchia, her backpack and glider. You will discover these challenges and many other hidden secrets as you sail through the archipelago's sparkling lagoons and delve into the coral reefs.
Thank you again for all the love and support you continue to send us.