Review: Paper Trail for PC

Discovering something genuinely unique in the gaming world is like stumbling upon hidden treasure. It’s refreshing to find a game that defies simple comparisons and challenges our preconceived notions. Often, we prematurely judge a game based on others’ opinions, reducing it to mediocrity without truly experiencing its individuality. However, every now and then, we encounter a gem where, when someone asks us, “What’s it like?” we find ourselves marveling at its uniqueness instead of drawing parallels. Enter Paper Trail—an experience that stands apart from the usual crowd, and I’m thrilled to share my journey with you.

Now, what really sets Paper Trail apart is its ingenious level design. This top-down puzzle adventure invites you to fold its levels like pieces of paper, creating new paths and uncovering secrets hidden in plain sight. Sometimes, the next step seems unclear, but after a bit of in-game origami, the solution unfolds before you. It’s an unexpectedly delightful way to play, and the game’s art style complements this beautifully. The levels resemble meticulously drawn pages, making it feel as though you’re navigating through a living piece of art, as much as a story.

At its heart, Paper Trail spins a charming tale of a young girl venturing into the unknown, stepping out from under the wing of her protective parents. It’s a story of discovery, not driven by any single event but by the old adage of spreading one’s wings. Beyond this simple premise, I won’t spoil the narrative, but I’ll assure you that the writing is superb, with a whimsical quality that enchants the player. While many puzzle games skimp on story, here, the narrative adds a magical layer to the experience.

One of the joys of Paper Trail is figuring out its elusive paths. Often, you’ll have to fold the paper-like levels in various ways, thoroughly strategizing to progress. It’s not just folding any edge or corner; it’s often about precision and timing. Not to mention, your character’s position adds another layer to the puzzle—folding over your character isn’t an option. Getting all the collectibles is no walk in the park either; it requires patience and cleverness to spot and reach these hidden treasures.

Despite its simplicity, Paper Trail demonstrates depth through its core mechanics and storytelling. Without its folding mechanic, it might just be another puzzle game. However, rather than diminishing the experience, this feature integrates seamlessly, complementing the storytelling and exploration rather than overshadowing them. This balance is a tricky feat, and it’s handled with finesse here.

In sum, Paper Trail is a brilliantly engaging puzzler with a touch of charming complexity. It’s not challenging because it fails mechanically but because it teases you into believing solutions are straightforward when they’re delightfully intricate. For those who relish a bit of mental gymnastics, answering these puzzles delivers immense satisfaction, encouraging you to think critically without discouragement. My advice? Embrace the logical simplicity behind the complexity.

I thoroughly relished my time with Paper Trail. It’s a fun, innovative puzzle game that’s sure to captivate any puzzle enthusiast from start to finish. While the trial-and-error aspect might not suit everyone, there’s no denying the game’s irresistible charm for those seeking a thoughtful and rewarding experience. For fans of head-scratchers, Paper Trail is simply a must-play.

In conclusion, Paper Trail is nearly the perfect puzzler, earning it an admirable 8.5 out of 10. With its beautifully crafted narrative, stunning visuals, and unique gameplay, it entices players to continue exploring until the very end, despite minor elements that might not appeal to every player. There’s plenty here for the average puzzle aficionado to adore.