Hello there, I’m Martin, and I have the honor of being both the CEO and Creative Director at Flatter Than Earth, the team responsible for conjuring up the magical and thrilling adventure, Once Upon a Puppet. This enchanting 2.5D puzzle-platformer invites you into a vibrant theatrical wonderland, blending classic platform elements with whimsical puppet-style play, and tells a story brimming with friendship, self-discovery, and redemption.
As you dive into the adventure, you’ll embody Drev, a passionate Actor, and Nieve, a skilled Stagehand and Tailor. These two are bound together by a magical thread and must work in harmony to navigate the intricate kingdom of theatre, uncover its hidden tales, and confront the ominous Shadow King. But before your curtain rises, let’s cover five useful tips to enhance your journey.
First up, keep your eyes peeled for costumes. They’re far more than a fashion statement. Throughout the game, you’ll encounter antique sewing devices that allow Nieve to craft unique story-driven costumes for Drev. Modeled after key characters you’ll meet, these outfits do more than dazzle on stage; they embody elements of the game’s rich narrative. Just like in theatre, a costume can signify a character’s role in the storyline. In this game, some challenges require a specific costume to move forward. Four of these essential attires are crucial to the game’s progression and are easy to find, though there are plenty of actor-themed outfits to discover. So, keep your eyes open as you traverse the kingdom!
Next, be sure to pick up collectibles scattered throughout. The game features two types: Stained Glass Pieces and Props. The Stained Glass collectibles are fragments of a grand stained glass window, each one revealing a piece of the kingdom’s history. Meanwhile, the Props are personal effects belonging to pivotal characters like The Queen, The King, and The Judge, each carrying insights into the lives of their owners. Gathering all these collectibles will deepen your appreciation of the world and its stories. If you delight in immersive narratives, these hidden treasures are well worth seeking out!
And don’t forget, every cutscene is a treasure trove of crucial information. Each sequence in Once Upon a Puppet is crafted to deliver emotional resonance while also offering vital hints about the world and upcoming challenges. The game involves twelve rebuilding stages, where you’ll recreate poignant moments from the king’s past. Each stage carries its own narrative essence and emotional weight—the key is in observing closely to piece together the full tapestry of your adventure.
Also, remember to experiment with stage manipulation—it’s your chance to think like a theatre director. Unlike traditional platformers where worlds are often static, Once Upon a Puppet provides a unique mechanic: the ability to rebuild and rearrange theatrical settings. The game encourages you to maneuver props, rotate backdrops, and adjust platforms to suit your needs. Some puzzles demand you arrange the setting strategically to help Nieve and Drev progress, while also revealing secret paths or crafting clever diversions for enemies.
Finally, in this game, spotlights aren’t just there for dramatic effect. They adhere to the theatrical principles found in live stage productions. The use of light, shadow, and silhouette is intentional, designed to amplify the storyline, emotions, and staging of each scene. It’s a visual homage to stagecraft, conveyed through pixels and puppets, and who knows? You might even uncover a few secrets hidden in the limelight.
Armed with these tips, we’re confident you’ll be ready to step into the spotlight and tackle the challenges ahead. We’re excited for you to experience the magic firsthand. Once Upon a Puppet is available now on Xbox Series X|S, and we wish you all the best on your journey!
