Toroa: Skycall

“Rather than controlling an aircraft or a fantasy creature, players inhabit an albatross whose natural ability to travel enormous distances becomes the foundation of the gameplay.”

“The game eases you into its flight mechanics with a linear tutorial segment that ensures you know how to take off, land, and maneuver in the air before setting you off into a flight course with cloud rings to fly through.”

“The bulk of the game is about the joy of flight, and it's clear that a lot of care has been put into the flying mechanics.”

“Its greatest strength is the way nearly every element, from movement and scenery to music and storytelling, supports the feeling of undertaking a meaningful migration through a world inspired by the South Pacific and Te Ao Māori.”

“The story is beautifully crafted and it was a joy to meet all the characters and relatable nervous little critters.”

“A sweet and condensed experience, completed in around 2.5 hours (the correct length for a story game) and taking you on a heartwarming journey through diverse and impressive landscapes.”

“Skycall is a tranquil flight adventure that transforms the long-distance journey of an albatross into an atmospheric exploration of nature, family, culture, and environmental responsibility.”

“The soundtrack deserves particular recognition because the game often relies on atmosphere rather than constant mechanical stimulation.”

“The flying feels great and I had so much fun swooping, diving, and gliding—it perfectly balances the thrill of going super fast and also cruising and taking the time to admire the gorgeous atmospheric environments.”

“Flight provides the foundation, but the emotional journey, Māori cultural perspective, wildlife encounters, environmental themes, music, and growing sense of companionship provide its personality.”

“Toroa Skycall does a beautiful job of juxtaposing the natural world with the relationships we carry with friends and family through its heartfelt Te Ao Māori perspective.”

“The character art for the various animal taoka is absolutely full of personality, and the dialogue ranges from effortlessly funny to genuinely touching—often within one korero.”

“The humorous presentation prevents the subject from becoming excessively preachy, while the presence of pollution nevertheless communicates a clear message about human impact on marine environments.”

“A beautiful and short game that is equal parts peaceful, hilarious, and sad.”

“The character art for the various animal taoka is absolutely full of personality, and the dialogue ranges from effortlessly funny to genuinely touching -- often within one korero.”

“Stunning sound design & visuals, feels so good to get those speed boosts when you dip and narrowly miss hitting the water.”

“Well-integrated throughout all aspects of the game: graphically, narratively, and sonically.”

“Gorgeous visuals, he tino ātaahua te pūoro, and what a treasure it is to see the mita kāinga throughout!”