TOEM: A Photo Adventure

Toem is a charming photography game that’s full of great moments, a lot of heart, and clever puzzles. You’ll travel around the black-and-white world, encountering interesting characters, all set in diorama-style levels that are begging you to explore them.
Puzzles in Toem often involve a character asking you to show them a photograph of something they’re missing or someone they’re looking for. As a reward, you’ll earn a stamp, collecting enough stamps will let you move on to the next level. You’ll also earn new clothes and occasional upgrades to your camera. By the end of the game, I was walking around with a foam finger and a monster mask and a space helmet, the peak of high fashion.
It’s a short, relaxing game that I finished in 3 or 4 hours. Although it's short, it's an amazing experience from the beginning to the end!
It's not a groundbreaking game, but it's somehow nostalgic and modern at the same time—a silly world that you can just enjoy, guilt-free. There is no overwrought commentary on modern society. There is no hidden meaning. Occasionally, some hidden socks or ghosts you can only see when you're wearing magic sunglasses, yes. Mostly having fun and taking pictures.
Played on ROG ALLY Z1 EXTREME
Rating 8/10 experience
My TOEM copy was from the Humble Bundle Choice Membership! (December 2022)

i loved this game 100x more than i expected. cute characters, quests, art style, and everything else!! was fun and relaxing and im so sad i finished it </3

Oh man, i wish i had played this sooner. TOEM is the definition of a "cozy game", just a stroll through multiple different locations, solving puzzles, with a beautiful artstyle and music to boot. Even when you are stuck on a puzzle, it's never annoying, just.... chill :D
Genuinely worth picking up immediately at full price, worth every penny for the amazing vibe on offer.

"Toem" is a heartwarming and whimsical adventure that captivates from the very first moment. This delightful game invites players into a beautifully crafted world brimming with charm and personality. With its unique art style, engaging writing, and varied quests, "Toem" offers an unforgettable experience that feels both fresh and nostalgic.
One of the standout features of "Toem" is its distinctive art style. The game is presented in a monochromatic, hand-drawn aesthetic that is both simple and stunning. Each scene is meticulously detailed, creating a world that feels alive and inviting. The visual style is complemented by fluid animations and an intuitive interface, making exploration a joy.
The sense of adventure in "Toem" is palpable. As you journey through different regions, each with its own unique flavor and challenges, you are constantly encouraged to explore and interact with the environment. The game’s writing is exceptional, filled with humor, warmth, and a touch of whimsy. The characters you meet along the way are endearing and memorable, each with their own quirks and stories to tell.
Quest variety is another strong point of "Toem." While the core mechanic revolves around taking photographs to solve puzzles and help characters, the quests themselves are diverse and imaginative. Each task feels unique, avoiding the common pitfall of repetition found in many adventure games. Whether you’re capturing a specific moment, uncovering hidden secrets, or simply helping out a quirky character, the quests are consistently engaging and rewarding.
The soundtrack of "Toem" deserves special mention. The chilled, relaxing music perfectly complements the game's serene atmosphere. It never gets repetitive, subtly enhancing the sense of immersion and relaxation as you play. The sound design, in general, is top-notch, with ambient noises and sound effects that bring the world to life.
"Toem" also excels in its sense of achievement. Completing quests and discovering new areas feels genuinely rewarding, thanks to the game’s thoughtful design and pacing. Each new region offers fresh challenges and surprises, keeping you motivated to continue your journey. The game’s length is just right, providing a satisfying experience without overstaying its welcome. The pacing is superb, ensuring that you are always engaged and never feel rushed or overwhelmed.
In conclusion, "Toem" is a delightful and enchanting game that stands out in the adventure genre. Its beautiful art style, engaging writing, and memorable characters create a world that is a joy to explore. The variety in quests, combined with a soothing soundtrack and a wonderful sense of achievement, makes "Toem" a must-play. With its perfect length and impeccable pacing, it offers a fulfilling and heartwarming experience from start to finish. Whether you’re a fan of adventure games or simply looking for something charming and unique, "Toem" is a journey worth taking.

I want 100 more games like Toem. It's so wonderful in its presentation and charming in its execution that I wholeheartedly fell in love with it. People should support games like this, which showcase everything amazing about human creativity. I hope the developers will make another game with a similar theme and art style, because we have too many fully 3D games and not enough with the 2.5D style we see here.
Rating: 10/10

Adorable, wacky and super cosy game. Perfect for when you're burnt out and don't want to use your brain cells. Vibes similar to A Short Hike in the best ways.

TOEM is suitable for all audiences. Everything from its friendly nature, to the ease of control, to the cute characters and catchy tunes, TOEM hits the mark in many ways. Though I wish it were longer, a part of me thinks the short length adds to the simplicity and relaxation aspect of the experience. It was just so inviting, especially during days where you want to do something easy and not necessarily feel too challenged, making me wish there was more content and areas to explore. TOEM 2, perhaps?