TOEM 2 Review: A Charming Sequel That Expands on the Original

TOEM established itself as a standout indie title, described as "one of the most enjoyable and well-crafted experiences of 2021." The phenomenon of Toem, the in-game event that prompts our adventure, remains the central motivation for returning to the world Something We Made created. When the sequel was announced, it was unclear what new narrative threads could be explored. However, the Swedish studio has clearly defined why a return to exploring the world with our camera, and bidding farewell to Grandma, is worthwhile.

The game opens similarly to its predecessor. Waking up in our room, we learn from Grandma about the approaching Toem, an event she calls "a breathtaking experience." After tutorials on using the camera and customizing our outfit, we tackle initial tasks right outside our home. This early section serves as a concise, effective, and intuitive introduction to the gameplay: humorous situations, delightful creatures, exploration, and the satisfaction of finding hidden snapshots while viewing the world through the lens.

TOEM 2 introduces new camera tools, with each city featuring a unique mechanic. The structure is straightforward: arrive in a new location, meet a character with a problem that spans the chapter, receive a tool to overcome obstacles in the level, and then move on to the next city. These tools allow us to trim hedges, assist a plumber, and help a construction apprentice prove their skills.

This mechanical addition enriches gameplay, as do the various tasks required to collect enough stamps to progress. TOEM 2 is designed so that exploring each level with curiosity and photographing anything that catches your eye makes it unlikely you'll need to meticulously comb the area with a quest list. Resolving incidental issues feels organic, as does capturing the numerous non-anthropomorphic animals populating the game.

The puzzles throughout the game are generally simple, whether immediate or spread across a level. The only challenging aspect might be some platforming sections. TOEM 2 is not and doesn't aim to be a difficult game, but be mindful when rushing through a city, especially if carrying a coffee that needs to arrive without spilling. Both the jumps and the exploration of different locations are enjoyable, thanks to the well-positioned overhead camera that presents these dioramas. Switching to the first-person camera and benefiting from improved graphics allows Something We Made to present more vibrant, detailed, yet still clear environments.

TOEM 2 is fully localized into Spanish. The localization credits for various languages far outweigh those for the development team. This is appreciated, as despite the lack of voice acting, it's likely you'll find yourself imagining different voices for certain characters. Both recurring and new characters, with their distinct looks and dialogue, are designed to bring a smile to your face.

The game’s sense of humor resonates with the original TOEM and fits perfectly within its fantastic setting. Here, a legendary archer inevitably hits a tempting apple, an expert in smells possesses a refined nose, and a giant troll adores watching goats. Agricultural zones, sewers, aquariums, magical forests, and treasure-filled dungeons offer numerous opportunities to fill your photo album. These memories become even more significant as you head to witness the Toem phenomenon, which, once again, leaves you satisfied by its beauty and the culmination of your journey.

Curiously, although five years have passed since the original's release, I only played TOEM two years ago. Despite the short gap, playing the sequel made me believe both games looked identical. This isn't the case. As I approached the end of this slightly longer adventure—4-5 hours compared to the original's 3—Something We Made celebrated the game's fifth anniversary with a video and a sale. It was striking to see TOEM's actual visuals and, more importantly, how TOEM 2 successfully remains faithful to the first game's style while being far more readable, dynamic, and visually appealing.

It’s perhaps similar to how we perceive loved ones; our mental image updates frequently, and only when seeing an old photograph do we notice the effects of time. Fortunately, the essence remains. Similarly, TOEM 2 has managed to replicate the original's formula without losing any of its heart.

[ 8 ]