Paper Trail Review

Game: Paper Trail
Genre: Adventure, Puzzle
System: Nintendo Switch (also available on Steam, PS4 & PS5)
Developers | Publishers: Newfangled Games
Age Rating: US E | EU 3+
Price: US $19.99 | UK £16.75 | EU 19,50
Release Date: May 21st 2024

A review code was used, with many thanks to Honest PR.

Embark on an exciting journey with Paper Trail, a thrilling top-down puzzle adventure that takes place in a magical foldable paper world. Join Paige, a bright academic eager to explore the world beyond her home for the first time, as she sets off on an incredible quest to pursue her studies.

Along the way, you will unravel the mysteries of this charming paper world by learning to manipulate and fold the environment, merging two sides to unlock new areas, solving mind-bending puzzles, and discovering ancient secrets waiting to be uncovered. Get ready for an exhilarating adventure as you fold your way to victory in Paper Trail.

Paper Trail An image showing a cartoon girl from Paper Trail, sat at her desk with a pen in one hand writing a letter and her other hand resting on her cheek. There is an arched window behind her and the wall is painted yellow. — Journal Me This

We’re Going on an Adventure in Paper Trail

From the moment Paper Trail kicks off with a striking image of Paige, you will be drawn into her world of curiosity and boundless energy. Just like Paige, I, too, feel the urge for exploration and crave the excitement of venturing beyond the familiar confines of my own small town.

There’s something truly empowering about stepping out of our comfort zones and diving into the unknown. Paige takes us along as she goes on her journey to uncover the strange and fascinating wonders. And with her, we get to explore what lies beyond the boundaries of our own homes. Let the exploration begin.

An image from Paper Trail, showing the main mechanic of the game - paper folding. There are mountains in the background set against a nighttime scene. The top right corner of the scene is folded, ready to start unravelling the puzzle of the scene. — Fold and Bend to Completion

Unique Gameplay in Paper Trail

I am absolutely obsessed with Paper Trail. While the idea of a character leaving their hometown to explore may not be groundbreaking, the incredible and innovative ways to solve puzzles and progress in this game are like nothing I’ve ever seen before. In origami style, you fold and unfold bits of the ‘screen’ to allow Paige to go where she needs to be to solve a puzzle. Paper Trail proves that even though cosy games often follow familiar storylines, they have the power to stand out and captivate players in new and exciting ways.

I am absolutely in love with the idea of a game that takes a common theme and completely reinvents it with fresh and engaging gameplay. Paper Trail is a true gem in the world of gaming, and I can’t get enough of it.

A scene from Paper Trail showing a character in need of assistance. She is wearing a black top and blue skirt with a speech bubble saying "I was here before...at the beginning." She is in a cave surrounded by rocks. — Helping Characters Along the Way

Help, Help

I absolutely adore the fact that in Paper Trail, not only do you get to venture beyond the confines of your own home, but you also have the opportunity to assist various characters you encounter along the way.

Almost every puzzle you solve will ultimately lead to someone in need of your help – whether it’s fixing a bridge for them to cross or rescuing them from a treacherous cave they’ve been stuck in for what feels like an eternity.

I must admit that helping these characters is by far one of the most rewarding and enjoyable aspects of this video game. The idea of lending a helping hand and making a difference in someone’s virtual world fills me with excitement and makes me eager to continue my journey of exploring and assisting those in need.

Paper Trail A scene from Paper Trail showing Paige on a bridge surrounded by other bridges with a gap between them. The colour palette is green with reeds poking out of the river. — Slow Pace for a Fast-Paced Life

Easy Does It

I absolutely loved the relaxed and leisurely pace of the gameplay in Paper Trail. Figuring out the puzzles required time and thought, which made the experience all the more immersive for me.

Once I started playing, I found it nearly impossible to put down. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy morning and enjoy a laid-back afternoon. The charming illustrations and perfectly fitting music added even more depth to an already fantastic game. It was truly a delightful experience that I would recommend to anyone looking for a calming and engaging game to enjoy.

Conclusion

Paper Trail is an absolutely enchanting game that is bursting at the seams with charm and whimsy. While the concept may not be entirely new, the gameplay and delightful characters truly steal the show in Paper Trail. The innovative use of origami to manipulate the environment and unlock hidden pathways is simply genius.

I have never experienced a game quite like Paper Trail, and I have a feeling that any future game attempting to emulate its unique mechanics will have an exceedingly tough act to follow. I am beyond impressed with this stellar gem of a game and cannot wait to see what other delightful surprises it has in store for me.

Final Verdict: Two Thumbs Up: