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Paper Trail

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Paper Trail
Item: Paper Trail
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Puzzle and Logic, Top-Down Perspective, Casual, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableMay 21, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperNewfangled Games

Overview

Fold corners and edges of the screen to open new pathways and solve puzzles in the super charming Paper Trail, with a soundtrack that'll melt your heart.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Paper Trail wins praise for its heartfelt narrative and whimsical gameplay centered on Paige's self-discovery. Critics laud its engaging characters and emotional depth, but some express disappointment with the story's resolution and lack of compelling drive, suggesting it falls short of its potential. While the game shines with charming elements and themes of independence, it ultimately leaves players wanting more from its emotional impact and conclusion. A sweet journey with room for narrative growth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Paper Trail has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its heartfelt narrative centered around the protagonist, Paige. Many reviewers, including Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life, highlight the game's focus on self-discovery and personal growth, emphasizing the tender and meaningful journey Paige undertakes as she navigates her academic ambitions and familial expectations. Critics like Pure Nintendo and GameCritics commend the unique premise of Paige's ability to manipulate space and time, which adds a whimsical layer to her coming-of-age tale. The narrative is often described as engaging, with well-developed characters and an emotional depth that resonates with players, as noted by PlayStation Universe and Cubed3. However, not all reviews are entirely positive. Several critics express concerns regarding the story's depth and emotional impact. For instance, XboxAddict and WellPlayed mention that the resolution of Paige's journey may leave players wanting more, suggesting that the narrative does not fully capitalize on its potential. Critics like Finger Guns and Adventure Game Hotspot also point out that while the story is charming, it lacks the compelling drive that would elevate it to a truly memorable experience. Some reviews indicate that the emotional highs expected from a coming-of-age story are not fully realized, as noted by Push Square and GAMINGbible, which detracts from the overall impact of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Trail offers a sweet and engaging story that effectively intertwines gameplay mechanics with Paige's journey of self-discovery. While many reviewers appreciate the game's charming characters and whimsical elements, there is a recurring sentiment that the narrative could benefit from deeper emotional exploration and a more satisfying conclusion. Critics like GameGrin and GamesHub encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging the touching themes of independence and personal growth while also noting that the story's simplicity may limit its emotional resonance. Thus, while Paper Trail is celebrated for its heartwarming qualities, it also leaves room for improvement in narrative depth and payoff.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Paper Trail impresses with its innovative puzzle mechanics, allowing players to fold environments for creative solutions, earning high praise for its engaging design and rewarding challenges. While critics note potential gameplay repetition and slow character movement, the overall consensus is that its unique mechanics and gradual introduction of new features make it a standout title in the puzzle genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Paper Trail has garnered significant praise from critics across various platforms, highlighting its innovative mechanics and engaging puzzle design. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life commend the game's unique approach to puzzle-solving, where players fold the environment to create new pathways, showcasing a blend of creativity and strategic thinking. The gradual introduction of new mechanics, as noted by NintendoWorldReport and XboxAddict, helps maintain player interest and encourages critical thinking, making the gameplay both challenging and rewarding. The hint system, mentioned by several critics, including XboxAddict and GAMINGbible, is also seen as a positive feature, providing assistance without compromising the overall challenge of the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks. GameCritics and GameSpew raised concerns about the potential for repetitive gameplay due to the core folding mechanic, suggesting that the novelty might wear off over time. Additionally, GameGrin highlighted inconsistencies in level design and noted that the character's slow movement could hinder the overall gameplay experience. While the gameplay is generally linear, as mentioned by Adventure Game Hotspot, this may not appeal to players looking for exploration and freedom in their gaming experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Trail offers a highly innovative and engaging gameplay experience that stands out in the puzzle genre. The majority of reviewers, including Pure Nintendo and PlayStation Universe, appreciate the clever design and the way new mechanics are introduced, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. While there are some valid criticisms regarding repetition and pacing, the positive aspects of the gameplay, particularly the unique paper-folding mechanics and the thoughtful puzzle design, resonate strongly with players, making Paper Trail a noteworthy title in its category.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Paper Trail dazzles with its charming, colorful art style and immersive design, earning rave reviews for its expressive character designs and dreamlike, storybook world. Critics celebrate its unique paper-like aesthetic and seamless integration of gameplay mechanics, although a few note minor inconsistencies in character designs. Overall, it’s a visually captivating experience that resonates deeply with players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Paper Trail have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight the game's charming and distinctive aesthetic. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life praise the game's expressive character designs and vibrant color palette, which create a dreamlike, storybook world that enhances the narrative's tone of innocence. The art style is often described as resembling paper mache or watercolor, with Pure Nintendo noting that it evokes a visually enjoyable experience that aligns with the theme of folding paper. Critics across various platforms, including Finger Guns and GameCritics, emphasize the stunning hand-drawn textures and beautifully designed levels, which contribute to an immersive atmosphere and an overall magical feel. The seamless integration of the folding mechanic with the environment, as highlighted by WellPlayed, further showcases the creativity behind the visual design. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few critics have pointed out minor shortcomings in the graphics. GameGrin mentioned that while the hand-drawn 2D art aligns well with the game's themes, some character designs appear slightly off. This sentiment suggests that while the overall aesthetic is appealing, there may be inconsistencies in character design that could detract from the visual experience for some players. However, such criticisms are relatively rare compared to the numerous praises the game has received. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Paper Trail excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority lauding its charming, colorful, and immersive art style. Reviewers like XboxAddict and GINX TV encapsulate this sentiment by describing the game as having a delightful storybook feel that enhances the overall experience. The combination of vibrant colors, whimsical environments, and a cohesive paper-like aesthetic has resonated with players, making Paper Trail a visually captivating title that stands out in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Paper Trail impresses with its immersive sound design and emotional score, enhancing gameplay with a whimsical atmosphere. Critics praise the enchanting soundtrack but note issues like repetitiveness and irritating gibberish character sounds that can detract from the experience. While it’s charming and captivating, some elements may frustrate players over time, leaving a mixed but overall positive reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Paper Trail have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance the overall experience through its audio elements. Critics like Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life praise the relaxing and immersive qualities of the soundtrack, noting how it complements the gameplay and creates a serene atmosphere. The emotional score by Claudie Mackula, as mentioned by TheXboxHub, adds depth to the game’s tone, while Pure Nintendo emphasizes the effective use of paper sounds and soothing music that facilitate smooth gameplay. Additionally, the whimsical and charming sound design, as noted by PlayStation Country and GAMINGbible, contributes to the game’s unique character, making it an enjoyable auditory experience. However, several critics have pointed out notable issues within the sound design and music. For instance, Softpedia and Metro GameCentral mention the repetitiveness of the soundtrack and the irritating nature of the gibberish sounds used for character voices, which can detract from immersion. TheXboxHub and XboxAddict also highlight that while the soundtrack is generally effective, the text-based dialogue and nonsensical sound effects may leave some players wanting more depth in character interactions. Critics like Finger Guns and Adventure Game Hotspot echo concerns about the soundtrack becoming monotonous during extended play sessions, indicating that while the audio is enchanting, it may not hold up over longer periods. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Paper Trail excels in creating an immersive and whimsical atmosphere through its sound design and music, it is not without its flaws. The enchanting and emotional score is frequently praised, yet the repetitive nature of the soundtrack and the quirky character sounds can lead to moments of frustration. Critics like Cubed3 and GameGrin provide a balanced view, acknowledging the charm in the sound design while also noting that it may feel standard for an indie game. Ultimately, Paper Trail offers a captivating auditory experience that enhances its gameplay, despite some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and immersion-breaking elements.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Paper Trail’s voice acting shines, particularly Paige’s standout performance that enriches the narrative. Critics praise her voiced journal entries for adding depth, but overall voice acting is inconsistent, with most in-game dialogue being text-only or using basic sounds, which detracts from immersion. While Paige's role is a highlight, the uneven voice work across characters leaves a gap in the experience, resulting in a mixed reception from critics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

90%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Paper Trail has received notable praise from several critics, particularly for the character Paige. Nintendo Life highlights how the voiced journal entries enrich the protagonist's backstory and motivations, adding significant depth to the narrative. Similarly, Cubed3 commends the well-executed voice acting, emphasizing Paige's performance as a standout that fits the story's tone. Adventure Game Hotspot also appreciates Paige's fully voiced narration, describing it as storybook-like, which enhances the overall storytelling experience. These positive remarks indicate that the voice acting, particularly for the main character, effectively contributes to the game's narrative engagement. However, the critiques also point out several shortcomings in the voice acting across the game. XboxAddict notes that while Paige's diary entries are fully voiced, most in-game dialogue is either text-only or uses non-specific sounds, which they found functional but not ideal. Metro GameCentral echoes this sentiment, mentioning that the text-only conversations, coupled with speech-like noises, can be slightly annoying. PlayStation Country further adds that while unique character sounds may be charming to some, others may find them irritating. GameGrin also mentions that the limited voice acting for character interactions, which consists mainly of random sounds, could detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the voice acting in Paper Trail. While Paige's voice work is widely praised for its quality and contribution to the narrative, the lack of consistent voice acting for other characters creates a noticeable gap in the experience. Critics like XboxAddict and Metro GameCentral highlight the limitations of the non-voiced dialogue, which can detract from immersion. Ultimately, while Paige's performance is a highlight, the uneven distribution of voice acting throughout the game leaves some critics feeling that the overall execution could have been improved for a more cohesive experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Paper Trail performs decently across platforms, but each has its quirks. The Nintendo Switch faces minor audio glitches and touchy controls, while the PS5 struggles with perspective issues and control quirks. PC runs smoothly but has slow character movement. Despite these flaws, critics find the game enjoyable and well-designed, suggesting a generally positive reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

100%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Paper Trail has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms. Starting with the Nintendo Switch, both Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life noted that the game runs relatively smoothly, with only minor issues reported. Impulsegamer mentioned a brief audio cutout that resolved itself upon completing a level, indicating that while there are some glitches, they do not significantly detract from the overall experience. Nintendo Life highlighted the option of using touch controls, which can enhance the gameplay and provide a more intuitive experience, suggesting that the game is adaptable to player preferences. On the downside, the criticisms for each platform reveal some areas for improvement. For the Nintendo Switch, Impulsegamer pointed out the audio glitch, while Nintendo Life noted the touchy analog controls, which could frustrate players who prefer traditional control schemes. Moving to the PS5, GINX TV acknowledged minor control issues, while PlayStation Country raised concerns about players occasionally getting stuck due to perspective problems, though they appreciated the restart level option as a helpful feature. PlayStation Universe also mentioned minor issues with the folding cursor that could affect gameplay but did not significantly impact enjoyment. For PC, GameGrin noted slow character movement as a minor issue, but overall, they felt the game functioned well without major technical problems. In summary, the overall consensus among critics suggests that while Paper Trail performs adequately across all platforms, there are notable technical issues that could be improved. The Nintendo Switch version has minor audio and control concerns, while the PS5 version, despite running smoothly, suffers from perspective-related issues and control quirks. The PC version is generally seen as stable, with only minor movement speed complaints. Overall, critics like GINX TV and GameGrin affirm that while there are some technical shortcomings, they do not overshadow the game's design and enjoyment, indicating a generally positive reception despite the noted flaws.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Paper Trail offers solid replay value for puzzle fans, with engaging mechanics, collectibles, and achievements enticing players to return. However, its linear story, short gameplay (4-8 hours), and potential frustration from trial-and-error may deter some from replaying. Critics agree that while enjoyable, the game's structure could become stale, leaving its overall replay value dependent on individual player preferences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviews regarding the replay value of Paper Trail present a largely positive outlook, especially for players who enjoy puzzle-solving. Critics such as Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo highlight the game's engaging mechanics and the presence of collectible origami constructs, which add depth and encourage thorough exploration. NintendoWorldReport echoes this sentiment, noting that the gratifying problem-solving challenges can entice players to return for more. Additionally, XboxAddict mentions the inclusion of achievements, such as completing the game without hints or within a time limit, which specifically appeals to achievement hunters and adds a layer of replayability. Overall, the game appears to cater well to puzzle enthusiasts, with many reviewers appreciating the clever gameplay that can lead to multiple playthroughs. However, several critics point out significant limitations that could hinder replay value. GAMINGbible and Metro GameCentral argue that the linear nature of the story and puzzles may lead to a lack of motivation to replay the game after the initial experience. GINX TV also mentions that the trial-and-error aspect might frustrate some players, potentially discouraging them from returning. Furthermore, GameGrin notes that the relatively short gameplay length—often cited as around four to eight hours—could limit replayability unless players are specifically aiming for achievements. This sentiment is echoed by multiple reviewers who suggest that while the game is enjoyable, its brevity and linear structure may not offer enough incentive for extended play. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Paper Trail does provide avenues for replayability through collectibles and achievements, these elements may not be sufficient to outweigh the game's linearity and brevity. Critics like PlayStation Country and God is a Geek acknowledge that the optional challenges can enhance the experience for dedicated players, yet many others, including Adventure Game Hotspot and Shacknews, caution that the game's structure might wear thin over time. Ultimately, Paper Trail seems to resonate well with puzzle lovers, but its replay value may vary significantly based on individual player preferences and tolerance for the game's challenges.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Paper Trail is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its creative approach to puzzle design and its charming aesthetics. Reviewers like Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport highlight the game's captivating narrative and stunning visuals, emphasizing that it excels in both storytelling and gameplay mechanics. The engaging puzzles are frequently mentioned, with Pure Nintendo and TheXboxHub noting the game's ability to keep players invested through its colorful graphics and rewarding challenges. Critics also appreciate the unique folding mechanics that set Paper Trail apart from other titles in the genre, as highlighted by GameCritics and GAMINGbible, who commend its innovative gameplay and charming presentation. Despite the many accolades, some critics pointed out notable drawbacks. Several reviews, including those from WellPlayed and GameSpew, mention issues with the story's resolution and repetitiveness in gameplay mechanics, which could detract from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Softpedia and God is a Geek, noted minor technical issues, including sound design and cumbersome controls, that could hinder gameplay enjoyment. These critiques suggest that while the game is engaging, it may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer a more straightforward narrative or less complex mechanics. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Paper Trail is a delightful and innovative entry into the puzzle genre, with a majority expressing strong approval of its design and gameplay. Critics like Impulsegamer and PlayStation Universe affirm the game's ability to provide a cozy and rewarding experience, making it a recommended choice for puzzle enthusiasts. While some minor flaws exist, the overall reception indicates that Paper Trail stands out as a memorable and enjoyable game, showcasing the developers' dedication to crafting a thoughtful and engaging puzzle adventure.

TL;DR

Paper Trail is a critically acclaimed puzzle game celebrated for its innovative mechanics, captivating narrative, and stunning visuals. While praised for its engaging puzzles and charming aesthetics, some reviewers noted issues with the story's resolution, repetitive gameplay, and minor technical flaws. Overall, it’s recommended for puzzle fans, offering a cozy and rewarding experience despite a few shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

53 reviews found

100

GamesHub

May 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A unique and novel puzzle game with incredible gameplay and storybook visuals, highly rewarding and deserving of praise.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

May 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail is a marvel of a puzzle game with a heartfelt story, inventive gameplay mechanics, beautiful visuals, and engaging accessibility options, offering a truly effective and memorable experience.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

May 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail is a thematically cohesive experience that excels in storytelling, gameplay, and world design, offering a satisfying and engaging puzzle-solving adventure.

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Cubed3

Aug 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail is described as a charming and cozy puzzle game that appeals to both veterans and newcomers, showcasing a high level of care in its design and execution.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

May 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail is a top puzzle game for the Switch with a captivating narrative, stunning visuals, and well-crafted puzzles, highly recommended for puzzle enthusiasts.

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GGRecon

May 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail exceeds expectations with inspired puzzle design, gorgeous art, and engaging gameplay, leaving the reviewer excited for the developer's future projects

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GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

May 20, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail is an exceptional game with innovative gameplay mechanics, charming aesthetics, and a simple yet engaging story.

God is a Geek

May 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail is a unique and captivating puzzle game with a great story, innovative gameplay, and helpful hint system, despite some minor issues like cumbersome folding controls and potential frustration with puzzles.

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XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Jun 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Paper Trail is praised for its unique mechanics, delightful visuals, and engaging puzzles, making it a recommended experience for puzzle game enthusiasts.

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Impulsegamer

Nintendo Switch

May 23, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Paper Trail is a lovely game that creatively explores personal emotions and offers rewarding puzzles, despite some technical issues. It provides a comfortable and engaging world to explore.

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