Paper Trail: A Unique and Compelling Puzzle Experience
Many Paper Mario fans are eagerly awaiting the return of a beloved game in the series, but there’s another papery world worth exploring. Newfangled Games’ Paper Trail is a debut release from a boutique London-based studio, offering a smart blend of creative puzzle design and stunning storybook visuals. While Paper Trail may seem simple at its core, its fresh ideas and execution will linger in your mind long after you’ve completed it.
Embark on a Journey with Paige
Step into the shoes of Paige, a bright young girl who dreams of becoming an astrophysicist but faces opposition from her family. Determined to pursue her aspirations, Paige sets off on a journey, using her reality-bending abilities to help strangers she encounters along the way. Each encounter provides companionship and sheds light on Paige’s background and motivation. The voiced ‘journal entries’ as you travel between worlds add depth to the narrative, creating a sense of magical realism that draws players in.
Unfold the Mystery with Reality-Bending Puzzles
At the heart of Paper Trail’s puzzle design is Paige’s unique power to bend reality by folding spacetime along the paper pages she navigates. Each level presents a new challenge, requiring players to fold and unfold the paper to create new pathways and reach exits. As you progress, additional level gimmicks add complexity to the puzzles, keeping players on their toes and engaged throughout the game.
A World of Beauty and Serenity
Visually, Paper Trail shines with its dreamlike world and papery aesthetic. From adorable frogs in swamps to heartwarming campfire conversations, each biome offers a unique and immersive experience. The soundtrack enhances the atmosphere, with soothing piano melodies that complement the visuals and draw players deeper into the game.
Conclusion: A Must-Play Puzzle Adventure
Despite some minor control issues, Paper Trail stands out as one of the best puzzle games for the Switch. With its captivating narrative, stunning visuals, and challenging puzzles, it’s a game that puzzle enthusiasts shouldn’t miss. Keep an eye on Newfangled Games for more unique experiences in the future. Paper Trail earns high praise for offering a low-stakes yet engaging addition to the puzzle genre.