Review: Paper Trail (PC)

Discovering something truly fresh in the world of video games is like finding a hidden gem. All too often, we box games into categories, comparing them to something familiar, and in doing so, we might miss out on appreciating a title for its own unique charm. You might be told, “it’s a bit like [insert game title],” and suddenly, expectations are set before you even hit “start.” This doesn’t seem fair, does it? It’s a rare thrill when someone asks you about a game, and you’re at a loss because there’s nothing quite like it. That’s exactly the sensation I got diving into Paper Trail. This game is hard to compare to others, which, in itself, is quite intriguing, and I’m excited to delve into my experience with you.

The thing that sets Paper Trail apart is its inventive level design. Picture a top-down puzzle adventure where progress involves literally folding the levels. Yes, you fold the environment to pave new paths, reveal platforms, and uncover secrets. You can’t always see your next step until a bit of paper-craft comes into play, making everything crystal clear. This adds an element of playfulness that kept me engaged. The game’s aesthetic harmonizes beautifully with the gameplay, making each level feel like flipping through a collection of exquisite illustrated pages. It’s more than just playing a game; it’s like walking through an artwork.

In a nutshell, Paper Trail offers a heartwarming story of a young girl running away from home. It’s about more than just fleeing; it’s a tale many can relate to about protective parents finding it hard to let go. I won’t spoil beyond that teaser, but I must say the storytelling is top-notch, with whimsy woven through every line of dialogue. In a puzzle game, you don’t always expect much in terms of narrative, yet Paper Trail surprises you with its delightful depth.

What’s fascinating in Paper Trail is how the path isn’t always laid out plainly. Often, you’ll need to fold the level in several ways to solve puzzles, which isn’t as simple as it sounds. You’ve got to decide not only where to fold but how far to fold it. It adds a layer of complexity, especially since you can’t fold over where your character stands. It’s smart design like this that makes progressing satisfying, as simplicity in pattern hides the real challenge.

While Paper Trail might seem straightforward mechanically, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s easy. The balance between the folding mechanics and storytelling is where it shines the most. If these elements were separated, the game might not stand out, but together they create something truly engaging. I’m cautious when games lean heavily on a single mechanic because it can sometimes overshadow other parts. But here, the folding mechanic enriches the game rather than dominates it, a commendable feat in game design.

Ultimately, Paper Trail is a gem in the puzzle genre, even if the folding mechanic can be a bit maddening at times—not because it doesn’t work well but because it encourages you to think outside the box. You might think you’ve cracked the code only to spend another chunk of time trying alternative ways to move forward. It requires patience and persistence, which some might find tedious. Yet, the sense of achievement when the pieces fall into place is genuinely rewarding. Remember, there’s no trickery here; every challenge has a logical solution.

All things considered, Paper Trail is a delightful puzzle game that will likely captivate enthusiasts of the genre enough to see it through to the end. While it involves some trial and error, it’s hard to pinpoint major drawbacks. If you love puzzles that make you think, give this one a shot. It’s a solid adventure that deserves attention for its creativity and charm.