Review – Paper Trail (Xbox Series X)

Paper Trail: An Adventure in Puzzle Gaming

The mobile game Paper Trail, developed by Newfangled Games, has made its way onto consoles, promising a unique puzzle adventure experience. But does it live up to the hype?

From the moment I watched the trailer, I was intrigued by Paper Trail. As a fan of games with a distinctive premise, captivating art style, and engaging storyline, I was eager to dive into this adventure. When Newfangled Games provided a review code, I was eager to experience what Paper Trail had to offer.

Paper Trail follows the story of Paige, a young girl eager to start her journey at university and pursue her dreams of becoming an astrophysicist. However, her plans are thwarted when a storm leaves her stranded in her village. As Paige embarks on a mission to help the locals, she discovers a whimsical and heartwarming adventure beyond her imagination.

The narrative of Paper Trail is enchanting, exploring themes of growth and self-discovery. It captivated me from start to finish, keeping me emotionally invested in Paige’s journey.

While I enjoy puzzle games, many have failed to maintain my interest due to uninspired storytelling or repetitive gameplay mechanics. However, Paper Trail managed to keep me engaged throughout.

The Innovative Gameplay of Paper Trail

In Paper Trail, players navigate a charming 2D world that exists on two sides of a piece of paper. The goal is to guide Paige from point A to point Z by manipulating the world through folding. You can fold the paper horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, but certain obstacles and limitations add complexity to the puzzles.

As the game progresses, new challenges like boulders and runes disrupt your folding plans, providing a satisfying level of difficulty. The gradual introduction of these mechanics keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging.

One minor issue I encountered was the cursor speed, which sometimes led to accidental folds. Adjusting the sensitivity in the settings remedied this problem.

Although the puzzles in Paper Trail can be challenging, the game’s hint system offers assistance without giving away solutions. This thoughtful approach prevents frustration and allows players to maintain a sense of accomplishment.

Visually, Paper Trail is a delight to behold, with charming character designs and a vibrant world that capture the player’s imagination. The attention to detail in the game’s artwork is commendable, making every scene a visual treat.