Release Date: July 2024 Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
A Calm and Captivating Aesthetic
Schim is one of those indie games that sneak up on you with its charm and simplicity. Developed by Ewoud van der Werf, this game introduces players to a world where shadows are not just visual effects but the very paths you must navigate. The premise is immediately intriguing: you control a small creature known as a schim, which can only move through shadows as it tries to find its way back to its person. At first glance, this might seem like a limited or niche mechanic, but it quickly becomes clear that Schim has a lot more to offer beneath its minimalist surface.
The game’s aesthetic is one of its strongest selling points. Right from the start, the visual design pulls you into a world that feels both familiar and surreal. The minimalist art style is clean and uncluttered, with soft colour palettes that change depending on the environment. The use of light and shadow is not just functional but artistic, creating a soothing and atmospheric experience. Whether you’re hopping between the shadows of trees, buildings, or people, there’s a sense of calm that permeates the entire game. The gentle soundtrack enhances this mood, with ambient tones that ebb and flow with your progress, making “Schim” feel like a meditative journey rather than just a puzzle game.
Simple Yet Engaging Gameplay
The core gameplay of Schim is built around a simple but clever mechanic: your schim can only exist within the shadows, meaning you must navigate the world by hopping from one shadow to another. This might sound restrictive, but the game does a great job of slowly introducing new elements that add depth to the experience. Early levels are straightforward, allowing you to get a feel for the controls and the basic movement patterns. As you progress, the game introduces more complex environments, moving shadows, and obstacles that require careful timing and strategic thinking.
Despite its simplicity, the gameplay is engaging. There’s something inherently satisfying about finding the right path through a series of shadows, especially when the solution isn’t immediately obvious. The game’s puzzles are designed to make you think, but they’re never overly punishing. This balance between challenge and relaxation is one of the game’s strengths. You can enjoy “Schim” at your own pace, without the stress of timers or high-stakes consequences. This makes it a great game to play in short bursts or during times when you just want to unwind.
Repetition Takes Its Toll
However, where Schim shines in its initial concept and atmosphere, it stumbles a bit when it comes to variety. The shadow-hopping mechanic, while novel and fun, doesn’t evolve significantly throughout the game. After you’ve played through several levels, you might start to feel a sense of déjà vu. The puzzles, though well-crafted, begin to blend together as you realize that many of them are variations on the same basic ideas. This can make longer play sessions feel a bit monotonous.
The lack of diversity in gameplay might not be an issue for everyone, especially if you’re playing in short bursts. But for those who like to sit down and play for extended periods, the repetition can start to detract from the overall experience. This is a game that’s best enjoyed in moderation—perhaps a few levels at a time rather than a marathon session. The moments of creativity and innovation are there, but they’re spaced out, and the in-between segments can feel like filler.
A Relaxing Experience, But Not Without Flaws
Despite its occasional repetitiveness, Schim still manages to be a relaxing and enjoyable game. It’s clear that the developer aimed to create a low-pressure experience where the focus is more on exploration and atmosphere than on intense challenges. In this regard, the game succeeds admirably. The game’s world is a pleasure to explore, and there’s a sense of tranquillity that’s rare in today’s gaming landscape. Whether you’re gliding through the shadows of a quiet park or weaving between the legs of pedestrians, there’s a peacefulness that permeates the game.
The game’s length also works in its favour. Schim is not a particularly long game, which helps to mitigate the impact of its repetitive elements. By the time you start to feel like you’ve seen all it has to offer, the game is usually wrapping up. This leaves you with a positive overall impression rather than a sense of exhaustion. The game’s narrative, while minimal, is also effective in keeping you engaged. There’s a subtle story about finding your way and reconnecting with your origins that unfolds as you progress, adding a layer of meaning to your journey.
Final Thoughts
In the end, Schim earns a solid 7/10. It’s a beautifully crafted game with a unique premise that delivers a tranquil and engaging experience. Its strengths lie in its atmosphere, aesthetic, and the simple pleasure of hopping between shadows in a world that feels both familiar and magical. However, the game’s limited variety and repetitive nature prevent it from reaching its full potential. It’s a game that’s best enjoyed in small doses as a way to relax and unwind rather than as a deep, immersive experience.
If you’re looking for a game that offers a peaceful escape and a unique gameplay mechanic, Schim is definitely worth checking out. Just don’t expect it to hold your attention for long stretches, and you’ll find a lot to appreciate in its quiet, shadowy world.
Gareth Ellis - Author 