Tree Simulator 2023, developed and published by Revmatek, is an intentionally absurd and minimalist experience that leans fully into its unusual premise: instead of controlling a hero, a vehicle, or even an animal, you exist as a tree. It’s a concept that immediately feels like a joke, and in many ways it is, but the game commits to it with enough sincerity that it becomes something more than just a novelty. Rather than building a traditional gameplay loop, it invites players to slow down, observe, and engage with a surprisingly calm and often humorous sandbox.
The core experience is built around presence rather than progression. You are placed into a small open environment where you can choose different types of trees and adjust environmental conditions such as weather, time of day, and seasonal changes. These elements subtly transform the atmosphere, turning the same space into something that can feel warm and bright, cold and quiet, or even slightly eerie depending on the settings. There are no pressing objectives or structured challenges pushing you forward, which makes the experience feel almost meditative. It’s less about doing and more about simply existing within the space the game provides.
Despite the apparent stillness, there are small interactive elements that prevent the game from becoming completely passive. You can reposition yourself, rotate, and make minor adjustments to how your tree appears, which adds a playful layer to the concept. These interactions are intentionally limited, but they help maintain a sense of control and curiosity. The game also includes a set of achievements that range from straightforward to deliberately odd, encouraging players to experiment with different scenarios and conditions. These goals don’t fundamentally change the experience, but they offer a light sense of direction for those who want something to work toward.
One of the more unexpected aspects of the game is its multiplayer component. When shared with other players, the experience shifts from quiet introspection to something more surreal and social. Seeing a collection of player-controlled trees gathered in one space creates a strange but entertaining dynamic, where the humor comes from the sheer absurdity of the situation. Interaction is still minimal, but the presence of others adds a layer of unpredictability that can make sessions feel more lively. It’s not a traditional multiplayer experience, but it works surprisingly well within the game’s unconventional framework.
Visually, the game adopts a simple but pleasant style that supports its tone. The environments are clean and uncluttered, allowing changes in lighting and weather to stand out clearly. Tree models are varied enough to provide some visual diversity, and the overall presentation maintains a consistent, approachable look. It’s not technically impressive, but it doesn’t need to be—the focus is on creating a relaxing atmosphere rather than showcasing graphical detail.
The main limitation of Tree Simulator 2023 lies in its lack of depth. Once you’ve explored the available options, experimented with environmental settings, and spent some time in multiplayer, there isn’t much else to uncover. The experience doesn’t evolve or introduce new mechanics over time, and the novelty of the concept can wear off relatively quickly. For players who expect progression systems, narrative elements, or increasing complexity, the game may feel too shallow to hold long-term interest.
Even so, the game succeeds by embracing exactly what it is. It doesn’t try to disguise its simplicity or expand beyond its core idea. Instead, it offers a brief, relaxing, and occasionally amusing experience that stands out precisely because of how unconventional it is. It’s the kind of game that feels more like an experiment than a fully developed system, but that experimentation is part of its charm.
In the end, Tree Simulator 2023 is best appreciated as a light, quirky diversion rather than a deep or lasting experience. It provides a unique perspective, a calm atmosphere, and a few genuinely amusing moments, especially when shared with others. While it may not sustain long-term engagement, it leaves a distinct impression simply by doing something different.
Rating: 8/10
