American Arcadia is a cinematic puzzle game that combines a 2.5D platformer and first-person game to tell the tale of a thrilling escape. Experience the extraordinary story of Trevor, an average man escaping from the world's most popular reality tv show.
Players take control of the protagonist Trevor as he navigates the retro-futuristic city of Arcadia, running, jumping, and sneaking through a variety of environments. Reviewers praise the tight, responsive controls and satisfying challenge of these platforming sequences, with one player highlighting the "smooth and enjoyable gaming experience" the mechanics provide.
Complementing Trevor's platforming, players also control the character of Angela in first-person puzzle-solving segments. Here, they use hacking and technical skills to manipulate the environment and assist Trevor's escape, distracting enemies and clearing his path. While some reviewers note occasional "communication breakdowns" in conveying puzzle solutions, the general consensus is that these sections deliver a creative and compelling problem-solving experience that integrates well with the narrative.
The game's standout feature is the seamless integration of these two gameplay perspectives, requiring players to coordinate the actions of both Trevor and Angela to progress. Reviewers consistently praise this mechanic, with one player describing the "best parts" as moments where they control both characters simultaneously, "making one character jumping between buildings, while the other hacks into the different objects in the environment to help them out." This coordination is seen as a highlight, adding depth and engagement to the overall experience.