Enkord developed Totem Tribe for casual gamers, who prefer simple game mechanics and easy controls. For example, unlike most real time strategy games, Totem Tribe requires no resource management. This allows players to begin creating units and constructing buildings immediately. Also, instead of selecting groups of units and then clicking on a location to perform a task, players place banners that represent the tasks different units perform around the island. The straightforward approach to exploration and combat in Totem Tribe gives players time to look for jewels and artifacts. The search for hidden objects is also incorporated into some of the quests. For instance, on one island, players must build towers, which reveal distant shores where seashells can be found. After collecting all of the seashells, players can unlock a treasure chest containing an artifact that will help to bring balance to the world. In a first for casual real time strategy games, players can return to any island they have completed and continue searching for objects they missed their first time through.