Review: Paper Trail for PC

It’s always refreshing to stumble upon something unique in the gaming world. We often find ourselves comparing one game to another, and sometimes a title that should shine on its own merits gets lost in translation because of these comparisons. We’ve been trained to judge a game before even trying it, thanks to recommendations like, “It’s a bit like … (insert game title here).” This preconceived notion isn’t particularly fair. On the contrary, it’s exhilarating when someone asks about a game and we’re left without a direct answer. With that perspective, let me introduce you to Paper Trail—a game that, frankly, stands alone in its own delightful category. I’m excited to share how it captured my attention.

What sets Paper Trail apart is its innovative level design. This top-down puzzle adventure requires players to engage in a bit of digital origami. You need to fold the levels to create paths, uncover hidden platforms, and unlock secrets—often leaving you in the dark until you fold your way forward, which is an exhilarating discovery in itself. Plus, the game’s aesthetic beautifully complements this mechanic. The levels resemble intricate pages of art, intertwining gameplay with a truly artistic narrative experience.

At its heart, Paper Trail is about a young girl embarking on a journey away from home—although it’s less about escaping something tangible and more about the universal theme of growing up and outgrowing home. Without diving deep into the spoilers, it’s worth mentioning the writing in this game is superb. It unfolds a whimsical story that is perfectly matched with its graphical style. Many puzzle games struggle in the narrative department because they don’t often need strong storylines, but Paper Trail breaks that mold with its charming plotline.

One of the aspects I love most about Paper Trail is its unpredictability. The solution isn’t always obvious, requiring you to fold the level creatively and consider various angles. You might think you’ve found a solution until you realize your character’s position needs tweaking, as you can’t overlap yourself. For those with a knack for exploration, hidden secrets lie on the underside of these folds, challenging even the most seasoned puzzle solvers.

Now, Paper Trail might appear straightforward at first glance, but don’t be fooled—there’s complexity in the simplicity. The folding mechanic isn’t just a gimmick; it’s an essential part of the storytelling and gameplay symmetry that defines this game. If you stripped away this unique feature, the game wouldn’t stand out as much.

Some might argue a game shouldn’t rely on a single mechanic. However, Paper Trail masterfully balances its mechanics with its other elements, creating a harmony that’s impressive. Unlike titles where mechanics can overshadow other aspects, Paper Trail ensures every component works cohesively rather than competing for the spotlight.

Overall, Paper Trail is a fascinating puzzler. While the folding mechanic might seem straightforward, you’ll soon find yourself grappling with its complexity and clever design. It’s challenging, but everything has a logical solution. No wild leaps are needed; persistence will reward you with satisfying solutions. Even when it seems like the game’s fooled you into thinking a solution is simple, it encourages a rewarding depth of trial and error.

I really enjoyed my time with Paper Trail. This innovative puzzler is sure to captivate dedicated fans who love a good brain teaser. Although its trial-and-error nature might not appeal to everyone and storytelling is always subjective, there’s very little to fault here. If you’re fond of a good mental workout, this game is certainly worth delving into.

In conclusion, Paper Trail offers a nearly perfect puzzling experience with a score of 8.5/10. With its enchanting narrative, stunning graphics, and unique gameplay, it promises to keep players engaged all the way to the end. While there’s a bit of trial and error involved, most puzzle enthusiasts will likely find this aspect charming rather than frustrating.