A poignant narrative-driven game about rejection, belonging and the meaning of home. It follows the story of a newly adopted shelter cat whose space in the home is taken by a copycat. Bring the tissues.
The game primarily focuses on the story and emotional experience, featuring simple mechanics and interactions rather than complex gameplay systems.
Players freely move the protagonist, Dawn, around detailed environments such as Olive's home, the neighborhood, and the nearby forest and alleyways. Players can interact with objects and characters to further the story, with small details and hidden items encouraging exploration.
Interspersed throughout the story are various mini-games and quick-time events, including activities like chasing butterflies, playing with toys, and fighting off other stray cats. These gameplay segments help to break up the pacing and provide a more active role for the player.
The game features a few key narrative choices that slightly alter the course of the story, allowing players to shape Dawn's personality and responses. The consequences of these choices are often immediately reflected in the dialogue and character interactions.
The game is designed to be accessible and easy to pick up, with intuitive controls and clear objectives. Players can use a controller or keyboard and mouse, and the simple mechanics and linear progression make the game approachable for players of all skill levels.
Reviewers praise the game's strong sense of immersion and emotional connection to the protagonist, Dawn. The focus on narrative and the cat's perspective helps players empathize with the character's experiences and feelings, often evoking powerful emotions and making them feel invested in Dawn's journey.