Flatter Than Earth’s Once Upon a Puppet is a 2.5D puzzle-platformer that invites players into a theater-inspired world. It boasts a captivating art style and a heartfelt narrative, but the gameplay mechanics and pacing present a mixed experience – here’s our take on the PS5 version.
The game introduces us to Nieve, a disembodied hand and skilled weaver, and Drev, a naive wooden puppet. Bound together by magical thread, they embark on a journey through the Understage – a realm of discarded props and forgotten performers – to reclaim their place in the kingdom’s theater. Their relationship evolves naturally, with Nieve’s initial reluctance contrasting Drev’s enthusiastic innocence, creating an endearing dynamic that serves as the emotional core of the story .
Visually, Once Upon a Puppet is a real treat. The game’s theatrical aesthetic is consistently stunning, with environments resembling elaborate stage sets brought to life. From grandiose main stages to more melancholic corners of the Understage, each area feels meticulously crafted. The lighting and shadow work enhance the game’s fairy tale qualities, creating moody atmospheres that captivate the player with strong audiovisual storytelling.
However, the gameplay mechanics don’t always match the visual splendor. The platforming, while functional, often feels imprecise. There’s a slight floatiness to the controls, making navigation more challenging than intended. This becomes particularly apparent during sequences requiring precise timing or when utilizing advanced movement abilities. The camera also occasionally positions itself in ways that obscure important elements, complicating depth perception – which can be an issue in a platformer like this.
The puzzle elements revolve around using both characters in tandem. While the concept is intriguing, the execution sometimes falls short. Some puzzles are straightforward, while others require out-of-the-box thinking. However, the lack of clear guidance can lead to moments of confusion and mild frustration, and the game doesn’t offer substantial hints to assist players during these instances.
Narratively, the game shines. The story unfolds through beautifully crafted cutscenes and text-based dialogue, telling a tale that, while not groundbreaking, carries enough charm and heart to keep players invested. The relationship between Nieve and Drev develops naturally, with their differing personalities creating an emotional depth that anchors the story .
In conclusion, Once Upon a Puppet offers a visually enchanting experience with a heartfelt narrative. However, its gameplay mechanics and pacing issues may deter some players. For those willing to overlook these shortcomings and a few rough edges, the game provides a unique journey through a beautifully crafted theatrical world.
Score: 6.6/10
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