Paper Trail is a top-down puzzle adventure about leaving home, set in a foldable, paper world.
Players praise the game's unique paper-folding mechanic, which allows them to fold and manipulate the environment, merging two sides of the paper-based world to create new pathways and solve puzzles. Reviewers describe this origami-inspired gameplay as a "refreshing departure" from typical puzzle games, offering a satisfying and immersive experience.
The puzzles challenge players' minds without becoming overwhelming, striking a well-received balance. Reviewers appreciate the game's optional hint system and difficulty adjustments, which enable players of varying skill levels to enjoy the experience. As one player notes, "the puzzles elegantly sit between being challenging enough to keep you engaged but at the same time being achievable."
As players progress, the folding mechanics become more complex, with new elements like sliding platforms introduced. Reviewers highlight how this gradual introduction of new mechanics keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, consistently presenting new challenges to overcome.
Overcoming the intricate puzzles provides a "satisfying accomplishment" for players. This sense of reward and progress is further enhanced by optional collectibles and bonus areas, encouraging players to fully explore the paper-based world.
The paper-folding gameplay is praised for its "tactile" and "satisfying" qualities, allowing players to feel as if they are physically manipulating the environment. This, combined with the game's beautiful, hand-drawn art style, creates an immersive and captivating experience that draws players into the foldable world.