3rd place - Join The Comfortzone (Baden-Württemberg Youth Foundation)

Here’s what the youth jury had to say: “Join The Comfortzone” wins the TOMMI because it’s a really awesome game. The story is set in a dystopian future, in a totalitarian state. If you follow the rules, you have nothing to fear and earn social points. As we try to help our rebellious sister, we’re constantly forced to make decisions that can either help or hurt her—and us. That really weighed on our conscience. The game had a cool comic-book style and shows once again how important life in a democracy is.

Here’s what the expert jury says: Khan lives in a dictatorship. Social points determine access to privileges, and a network of agents monitors the population. Khan’s sister, Khira, is being sought after a poetry slam performance. Should Khan help his sister and put himself in danger? This game, which is remarkably well-crafted from a dramatic perspective, clearly illustrates what happens when a dictatorship dictates everyday life. Underlying it all is the question, “How would you act in a totalitarian state?” A very successful dystopian story in comic book style, featuring excellent voice actors. Time and again, players are faced with difficult decisions and must choose for or against loved ones. This game is particularly well-suited to supporting democracy education in schools.