Toem 2 Review: A Charming Photography Adventure Worth Snapping Up

Toem 2 is a delightful photography puzzler with whimsical characters and clever puzzles. Our review dives into why this sequel is effortlessly charming.

Ever wish you could just wander through a charming black-and-white world, camera in hand, and help everyone you meet? That's exactly what Toem 2 offers, and it's an absolute joy.

Like its predecessor, Toem 2 puts you in the shoes of a mute protagonist on a quest to attend a once-in-a-lifetime festival called a 'toem.' But the bus won't take you there directly. Instead, you'll detour through quirky areas, earning bus tokens by helping locals with their problems. Each area has a core character with a multi-part quest, a welcome change from the first game that adds a satisfying layer of continuity.

The game's writing shines with unexpected silliness—whether it's a skeleton fretting about leaving the stove on or a biologist needing fish-themed analysis (a clear Pokémon nod). You'll find yourself memorizing each area as you backtrack, snapping photos, and chatting with locals. It's the gentlest Metroidvania-alike you'll ever play, and the way random photos become plot-critical is pure magic.

With roughly four hours of playtime, Toem 2 constantly surprises. Each area has a distinct theme, from farmland vibes in Cropten to fantasy in Taletorp. New camera add-ons, like scissors in the first area, give you fresh ways to interact with the world. The photography mechanics are simple but satisfying: use the gyro or right stick to aim, zoom, focus, and pan. Completionists can snap pics of local wildlife for extra stamps—and the critter names like Blobnuts and Mopeyrelles are adorable.

The only downside? Having to finish it. You'll settle into its groove and wish for more. Hopefully, a part three is on the horizon. Toem 2 launches September 29, 2026, on PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch. Will you be picking this up?