TOEM

 Switch
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. Universo Nintendo
    Oct 7, 2021
    72
    TOEM is a calm expedition where photography will be an ally in discovery, not the main point. The way in which the art was used both for exploration and for photography is surprising, however the game lacks repetition in certain moments.
  2. Edge Magazine
    Dec 30, 2021
    70
    Like playing with a good camera, though, this is really its own reward - something that's a joy to fiddle with for hours at a time, even if no one but you is interested in the results. [Issue#367, p.123]
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  3. GameSpot
    Sep 15, 2021
    70
    When you reach Toem, the event itself, it really does feel spectacular in the context of the game. More important, though, is what it represents. Toem is a simple, cute fable about growing up and engaging with the world. And like the phenomenon, it's really best if you see it for yourself.
  5. NintendoWorldReport
    Sep 13, 2021
    70
    Don't get me wrong, my time with TOEM while playing was a lot of fun. The little contradictions I came across during my time with the game didn't really sink in until after I finished the game. I did put in the time and collected as many stamps as possible. But even so, you should expect to stick too long to TOEM. Once you've seen everything, there really isn't that much to return to. Still, in some cases I'd argue that the journey is the destination. When it comes to TOEM the journey can be a little tedious and sometimes even a bit repetitive. But if you're looking for a slow paced game to relax over a weekend there's still a lot of charm and enjoyment to be found here.
  6. Eurogamer Italy
    Sep 13, 2021
    70
    TOEM perfectly represents the beauty of the journey rather than reaching the destination. A relaxing and enjoyable experience armed with a camera.
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  1. Eurogamer
    Sep 14, 2021
    Playful challenges and a warm sense of place and character converge in this cheerful modern classic. [Eurogamer Essential]
  2. The Verge
    Sep 13, 2021
    I was really excited for New Pokémon Snap, but I found its structure, which forces you down curated routes that you have to play repeatedly (and, for a good chunk of the game, without any way to boost through them), to be frustratingly limiting. I also didn’t like how you could miss photo opportunities; it added an unnecessary level of anxiety to a game about calm nature rides. Toem, by contrast, is a lot more relaxed and open, and for me, that lets me have a lot more fun playing photographer. I always had my eye out for things like hidden animals in the trees, cool graffiti on walls, or even just somebody’s cat. And without any pressure or punishment to miss a photo, I was much more motivated to snap anything that looked interesting or seek out certain photos to help out a quest-giver.

Awards & Rankings

82
#82 Best Switch Game of 2021

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
6.8

Mixed or average reviews- based on 14 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 14
  3. Negative: 3 out of 14
  1. Nindie_Nexus
    Oct 30, 2021
    7
    The main story for Toem is very short, clocking in at around three hours or so. But those three hours are very nice. Each of the differentThe main story for Toem is very short, clocking in at around three hours or so. But those three hours are very nice. Each of the different areas differ greatly from each other and give a different experience to the player. The amount of things that you can take pictures of is immense and after a while, I naturally found myself focusing on items and moments that were definitely tied to a quest, even without knowing for sure if that was the case. For a majority of the content available, Toem makes it obvious when you want to take pictures or interact with something.

    The main downside is, again, the short runtime for those looking for a substantial story. I personally was surprised I only ended up spending three hours. But I do wish that there was one or two more worlds to explore around in. It was fun running around taking pictures of everything and the quirkiness of the characters left a smile on my face. There is also some awkwardness with making the bus pass and the quest log tied together, since the quest log is limited to about 1/3 of the page.

    The styling for Toem plays very well in its advantage. Monochrome is not a stylistic choice made very often in games. So when it’s done well, it definitely sticks out. The music ties well with each of the environments and blends nicely into the background. And being able to choose whatever songs you want to listen to is always a great choice to give the player in games like this.

    If you are sitting on the fence with this title due to the price vs. gameplay time, I would say wait for a sale if that is your main deal breaker. Otherwise, Toem is a fun experience and one that I would love to experience again.    … Full Review »
  2. Black_S
    Jan 12, 2023
    10
    Toem is Poem.
    Small game about photo adventure with interesting world, beings, people. Very relaxing and enjoyable.
    I really like those    Toem is Poem.
    Small game about photo adventure with interesting world, beings, people. Very relaxing and enjoyable.
    I really like those small games with "curious" feelings. It is a bit short. But I am looking for next adventure.    … Full Review »
  3. mariebot
    Dec 27, 2021
    9
    Lovely design, cute puzzles, cozy music. Only downside that I would have played it another few hours more. But it's good this way. AbsolutelyLovely design, cute puzzles, cozy music. Only downside that I would have played it another few hours more. But it's good this way. Absolutely recommended… Full Review »
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