If you haven’t heard about Temtem, it’s an MMO (massively multiplayer online game) that’s essentially Pokémon at its core. Temtem isn’t simply a clone, however, as it has several unique features that make it stand on its own. Should you play Temtem?

The answer is, you should wait for the game to exit Early Access. If you are, however, dying to play a Pokémon MMO like everyone else, then get this game now.

Temtem vs. Pokémon

Aside from the multiplayer aspect there are a couple notable differences between Temtem and Pokémon:

• There are several new types: Mental, Wind, Digital, Melee, Crystal, and Toxic.
• Temtem have stamina which is used to use moves.
• Some moves require a minimum turn number to use.
• Battles lack RNG (random number generation) so there are no critical hits or missing attacks.
• Double battles are the main form of battling.
• Developers that are close to the ground with players.

This is not an exhaustive list.

Pokémon players will also find many parallels to the Pokémon series. Certain terms like “Luma” basically mean “shiny.” “Dojo” replaces gyms. There are many other familiar game design elements like the one-way ledges players jump over and the tall grass with hidden Temtem.

Does Temtem actually stand on its own?

Playing a Pokémon-like game and seeing players for the first time and interacting with them for the first and perhaps last time (such is the nature of MMOs) is an experience in and of itself. You’re part of a shared world where everyone’s trying to be Temtem masters.

Temtem designs very much align with the world they inhabit. Each Temtem seems to have their own personalities which makes for a great creature-collecting game. Players will become attached to Temtem in no time.

The graphics aesthetics and UI are pleasing to look at and the game runs smoothly on my PC. It’s hard not to compare Temtem to its inspiration, but the developers are definitely working hard to make it a different experience.

What more is planned for Temtem?

Currently, in Early Access, Temtem is about 50% finished. That’s only halfway! There’s plans for 161+ Temtem to be in the game, and only a little over 80 are in at the moment. You can only visit three of the six islands. There isn’t ranked matchmaking. Housing, one of the most looked forward to feature is yet to be implemented. The list goes on.

If you’re thinking about getting this game, check it out on Humble Bundle for possible discounts and sales.