Review: Paper Trail for PC

Discovering something truly unique in the gaming world is always a delightful surprise. Far too often, we find ourselves comparing new games to existing ones, which can sometimes dim the excitement and reduce a game to just another entry in a vast library. All too often, we anticipate what a game might be like based simply on someone saying, “It’s a bit like this or that.” These preconceived notions can be a bit unfair. So, when someone asks, “How’s this game?” and you’re at a loss for comparisons, it is refreshing. Enter “Paper Trail,” a game that defies easy categorization. I’m genuinely excited to share my thoughts about this distinctive title.

The standout feature of “Paper Trail” is its inventive level design. This top-down puzzle adventure revolves around the idea of folding levels to create paths, uncover platforms, and discover secrets. At times, the next step isn’t visible until you engage in a bit of virtual origami, after which everything comes into focus. This dynamic approach makes the gameplay exceptionally enjoyable. What enhances this experience even further is the game’s artistic style. The environments resemble beautifully drawn pages laid out like a storybook, making it feel as if you’re not merely playing a game, but engaging with a piece of interactive art.

The story of “Paper Trail” is a charming tale about a young girl setting off on her own adventure. It’s more than just a simple journey away from home—it’s layered with underlying themes of parental protectiveness and the challenges of letting go. While I won’t delve too deeply into the plot, I’ll say that the narrative is whimsically captivating and well-crafted. The artistic choices complement the storytelling beautifully. Unlike many puzzle games that can neglect the story, “Paper Trail” marries its narrative and mechanics seamlessly.

One of the intriguing aspects of “Paper Trail” is its perplexing paths. You often need to fold the level in multiple ways to navigate through obstacles, a task that’s trickier than it initially appears. It isn’t just determining which edge or corner to fold; you also need to consider your character’s position, as folding over oneself is not an option. Many times, collectibles are hidden on the reverse side of the level, demanding extra creativity to reach them. Trust me, it’s no small feat to gather them all.

Despite its simplicity on the surface, “Paper Trail” is pleasantly challenging. The game wouldn’t stand out as just another top-down adventure without its folding mechanic, and that’s where its uniqueness shines through. The story, while engaging, complements rather than leads the narrative. I often criticize games that rely too heavily on a single mechanic, which can feel forced. However, “Paper Trail” perfectly balances this mechanic with its story and gameplay, a rare achievement worth acknowledging.

In summary, “Paper Trail” is a highly engaging puzzle game with a deceptively complex mechanic that will keep players entertained. The game suggests easy solutions, but just when you think you’ve got it figured out, it throws a curveball that requires intense problem-solving. While the trial-and-error approach might not suit everyone, solving puzzles is undeniably rewarding. Remember, every challenge has a logical solution, so if you find yourself stuck, just breathe and try a different approach.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with “Paper Trail.” It’s an innovative puzzle game likely to captivate fans of the genre. The need for trial and error may not appeal to everyone, and the narrative’s reception will be inherently subjective, yet there’s little to fault. Overall, if you enjoy testing your mental agility, this game is a solid choice.

Ultimately, “Paper Trail” scores an impressive 8.5/10. It’s a captivatingly written narrative puzzler with stunning graphics and unique gameplay that will keep you coming back until the last puzzle is solved. While the trial-and-error aspect might not be everyone’s cup of tea, puzzle enthusiasts will likely find it a labor of love.