Developer & Publisher: Newfangled Games
Genre: Puzzle
Reviewed For Nintendo Switch
Also Available On PlayStation, Xbox, Steam
Some of the best puzzle games are built around simple ideas that are implemented in a genius way, and Paper Trail is one of them. This adventure puzzle game lets players fold and manipulate the world like a sheet of paper to navigate obstacles and uncover hidden paths. Paper Trail is a creative experience that feels both fresh and familiar.
Paige, a determined young woman, dreams of attending university to study astrophysics, but her overprotective parents refuse to let her leave home. She sneaks out in the dead of night, embarking on a journey filled with personal growth and unexpected friendships. Along the way, she uses her reality-bending abilities to help those she meets, while uncovering memories tied to her missing brother.
Paper Trail is a puzzle adventure built around its clever paper-folding mechanic. Players manipulate the environment by folding the edges and corners of each level, revealing hidden paths and altering reality to navigate past various obstacles. While it starts simple, puzzles become progressively more intricate, offering a satisfying difficulty curve. A built-in hint system ensures accessibility, making it an engaging experience for both casual and seasoned puzzle fans.
Paper Trail is a visual delight, and feels like a living storybook with its soft, aesthetic, and handcrafted style. The color palette shifts beautifully across biomes, making every area feel distinct. Complementing the visuals, the soundtrack is gentle and immersive, with soft piano melodies and string instruments.
