What are games for if not to engage and entertain you? But TOEM goes above and beyond with how snug and comforting it feels. Now some may claim that the simplistic nature of the game makes it boring. You go off on the straightforward adventure of exploring your world and taking photos of adorable events and charming creatures. Sometimes, all you need from a game is a quiet time taking cute pictures.That’s what TOEM offers. Not every game has to be an epic quest with an intricate storyline or a competitive battle royale with twitch-skill duels that determine whether or not you take home first place. The story is the main draw of the game, as it reflects on the trials of parenthood, specifically focusing on how raising a child in a “better” place can lead to cultural dissonance and rejection, but ultimately acceptance, of the unique heritage we receive from our family. It’s engaging without being tough, and it highlights the culture that Venba embraces as her son grows up and distances himself from it. Some instructions are missing, so you have to use context clues and logic leaps to complete the exquisite dishes, which are made downright aromatic using bright colors and boldly drawn art. Gameplay is simple, taking the form of click-and-drag puzzles as you work your way through Venba’s recipe book. You play as Venba, an immigrant from India managing (and feeding) her small family of three. It’s not often that such a short game can hit you in the feels, but that’s exactly what Venba accomplishes in its easily digestible runtime.

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