Review #010 – Paper Trail

Puzzle-based adventure games can be hit or miss for me depending on how accessible the mechanics are and on how satisfying thepuzzle solving is. Paper Trail hits that sweet spot of having clever paper-folding mechanics with puzzle solutions that never get annoyingly obtuse. It’s not an easy game per se, but it’s approachable.

The main paper folding mechanic is really cool — every new area has pieces of the map that can fold over which can reveal new paths on the other side. This allows you to get to places that are otherwise unreachable like, say, crossing a river. Each chapter adds a new layer into the mix but nothing gets overwhelmingly difficult — it’s designed in a way that makes you feel smart.

It took me about 4 hours to fully finish which includes going back to earlier chapters to find some missed collectibles. It’s a consistently good experience with a beautifully minimal art style. I have no real complaints, it’s just a very solid puzzle game.