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TOEM, a relatively unknown indie gem, offers a unique and heartwarming experience that deserves attention. Developed by the Swedish studio Something We Made, this charming adventure game centers around the simple, yet engaging act of photography. Embark on a delightful journey filled with quirky characters, clever puzzles, and a visually striking world rendered entirely in black and white.

Capturing Memories and Helping Hands

Your adventure begins in a cozy bedroom. After a brief chat with your supportive mother, who gifts you a cherished family camera, you set off on a quest to capture the elusive “perfect photo.” This premise, while reminiscent of other collect-a-thon adventures like Pokemon, focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving rather than combat.

Your journey unfolds across various distinct locations, each with its own charm and challenges. Your primary objective is to assist the helpful inhabitants marked with a star above their heads. By completing their photography-related tasks, you earn stamps that unlock access to new areas.

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The ingenuity of TOEM lies in its diverse application of photography mechanics. You’ll capture images of animals, scenic landscapes, and even elusive creatures. Later, a horn attachment for your camera adds a new layer to the gameplay, allowing you to interact with the environment in creative ways, such as shooing away pesky seagulls blocking your path.

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Photography isn’t just about collecting snapshots; it’s integral to solving puzzles and unraveling the stories of the characters you encounter. These puzzles are thoughtfully designed and seamlessly integrated into the narrative, requiring observation and deduction. Successfully completing tasks rewards you with charming cosmetic items for your character, ranging from quirky socks and oversized gloves to whimsical hats like a pirate’s hat, a hotdog, or even an astronaut helmet!

A World in Monochrome

TOEM’s distinctive 2.5D art style, rendered entirely in black and white, sets it apart. This minimalist approach, reminiscent of paper cutouts, enhances the game’s whimsical nature. The monochromatic palette doesn’t detract from the world’s vibrancy; instead, it accentuates the clever animation, lighting, and environmental details, creating a cohesive and playful experience.

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The game’s soundtrack, composed by Jamal Green and Launchable Socks, further elevates the experience. The diverse and chill music perfectly complements each location, adding another layer of depth and immersion. From eerie yet relaxing tunes in spooky areas to slightly distorted lo-fi beats in mysterious zones, the music enhances the overall atmosphere and captures the unique spirit of TOEM.

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A Bittersweet Farewell

TOEM’s biggest flaw is perhaps its brevity. While the experience is polished and well-paced, the short playtime leaves you wanting more. The charming characters, in particular, could have benefited from further development and exploration. Occasionally, some puzzles feel slightly ambiguous, potentially causing minor frustration in navigation. However, these minor shortcomings are overshadowed by the overall satisfying experience of unraveling the interconnected puzzles.

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Conclusion

TOEM is a delightful and refreshing adventure that celebrates the joy of photography and exploration. Despite its short length, the game offers a memorable experience filled with charming characters, clever puzzles, and a visually striking world. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and unique indie game, TOEM is definitely worth capturing.