# Paper Trail

> 2024 video game developed by Newfangled Games

**Wikidata**: [Q113647890](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q113647890)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paper_Trail_(video_game))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/paper-trail-q113647890

## Summary
Paper Trail is a 2024 puzzle video game developed by Newfangled Games. It was released on May 21, 2024, and is available on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. The game received critical acclaim, earning an 80/100 Metacritic score and winning the Gamescom Award for Best Family Game in 2022.

## Key Facts
- Released on May 21, 2024, by Newfangled Games
- Genre: Puzzle video game
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
- Metacritic score: 80/100
- Gamescom Award 2022: Best Family Game
- Single-player only
- Available through digital distribution on Steam, PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, and Nintendo eShop
- English language only
- Indie game developed in the United Kingdom

### Q: What type of game is Paper Trail?
A: Paper Trail is a puzzle video game where players manipulate paper-like environments to solve challenges. It's a single-player experience focused on spatial reasoning and creative problem-solving.

### Q: When was Paper Trail released and on what platforms?
A: Paper Trail was released on May 21, 2024, and is available on Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.

### Q: What awards has Paper Trail won?
A: Paper Trail won the Gamescom Award for Best Family Game in 2022, recognizing its innovative puzzle design and family-friendly appeal.

### Q: Is Paper Trail an indie game?
A: Yes, Paper Trail is an indie game developed by Newfangled Games, a UK-based independent game studio.

### Q: What is the critical reception of Paper Trail?
A: Paper Trail has received positive critical reception with an 80/100 Metacritic score based on reviews from multiple platforms, indicating generally favorable reviews from critics.

## Why It Matters
Paper Trail represents an innovative approach to puzzle game design by introducing a unique paper-folding mechanic that transforms how players interact with game environments. Its success demonstrates the continued viability of creative, experimental game concepts in the mainstream market. The game's recognition at Gamescom 2022 highlights how indie titles can compete for major industry awards alongside AAA productions. Paper Trail's cross-platform release strategy also exemplifies modern game distribution, making innovative experiences accessible across multiple gaming ecosystems. As a puzzle game that appeals to both casual and dedicated gamers, it helps expand the audience for thoughtful, non-violent gaming experiences while showcasing the creative potential of independent game development.

## Notable For
- Won Gamescom Award 2022 for Best Family Game, beating major AAA titles
- Unique paper-folding puzzle mechanic that creates novel spatial challenges
- Strong critical reception with 80/100 Metacritic score across multiple platforms
- Successful cross-platform launch on seven different gaming systems
- Recognized as an innovative indie title that appeals to broad audiences

## Body
### Development and Release
Paper Trail was developed by Newfangled Games, an independent game studio based in the United Kingdom. The game entered development as an innovative puzzle concept centered around paper manipulation mechanics. After several years of development, Paper Trail was officially released on May 21, 2024, across multiple gaming platforms simultaneously.

### Game Design and Mechanics
The core gameplay revolves around a unique paper-folding mechanic where players can manipulate the game world as if it were made of paper. This creates spatial puzzles that require creative thinking and three-dimensional problem-solving. The game is designed as a single-player experience, focusing on individual puzzle-solving rather than competitive or cooperative play.

### Critical Reception
Paper Trail received positive reviews from critics, earning an 80/100 score on Metacritic. The game was praised for its innovative mechanics, charming visual style, and accessible puzzle design. Critics noted that the paper-folding concept offered fresh gameplay experiences compared to traditional puzzle games.

### Awards and Recognition
The game achieved significant industry recognition by winning the Gamescom Award for Best Family Game in 2022, before its official release. This early recognition helped build anticipation for the game's launch and demonstrated the industry's appreciation for its innovative approach to puzzle design.

### Platform Availability
Paper Trail was strategically released across seven major gaming platforms: Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. This broad platform strategy ensured maximum accessibility for players regardless of their preferred gaming system. The game is distributed digitally through major storefronts including Steam, PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, and Nintendo eShop.

### Technical Specifications
The game requires standard computing hardware for its target platforms, with specific system requirements varying by platform. Input methods include computer keyboard and mouse for PC versions, gamepad support for console versions, and touch controls for mobile platforms where available. The game is available exclusively in English, with no additional language localizations at launch.

## References

1. [Winners 2022 gamescom award](https://www.gamescom.global/en/gamescom/gamescom-award)
2. [Gamescom Awards 2022, tutti i vincitori: Lies of P conquista tre premi. 2022](https://multiplayer.it/notizie/gamescom-awards-2022-tutti-i-vincitori-lies-of-p-conquista-tre-premi.html)
3. Steam
4. OpenCritic
5. [Q131917281](https://criticdb.com/games/paper-trail)
6. StopGame
7. Nintendo eShop
8. GameSpot
9. [Source](https://store.steampowered.com/greatondeck)
10. Q124398839
11. GamesMeter.nl
12. Video Games Chronicle
13. Steam Deck HQ
14. VGChartz
15. Q131917281