With a name like Papertris, you might expect a Tetris-style paper-themed puzzle game. In fact, Papertris is more reminiscent of Columns’ color-matching gameplay. Or maybe it’s more like Tetris 2, the late NES sequel, but it’s actually pretty fun. Papertris is pretty fun too. At least sometimes it does. However, it lacks some options to move from fair territory to very good territory.
In this game, match blocks of the same color to eliminate them from the playing field. Sometimes I clear as many as possible, other times I focus on specific colors and even variations of such. This is an intuitive setup on paper, no pun intended. The solo player has his two modes, Challenge and Endless.
The former mode begins to introduce some non-intuitive elements: gimmick blocks. There are many of these, but no tutorials on how to use them. Sure, you’ll soon get used to their techniques, such as removing lines in either direction, as an example. But even after hours of playing, I was still asking myself, “What does this block do again?”
Another non-intuitive (albeit unique) element is the use of layered backgrounds. It’s a bit difficult to explain in a limited number of words. It’s also difficult to wrap your head around. It’s challenging, and some people appreciate the challenge and the fresh approach, while others, like me, crave something more classic. With better instructions, fewer gimmicky cubes, and the option to tweak some of these unique elements, Papertris could have done better.
As for the endless mode, I wanted an option: difficulty. The mode was promised to be “faster and harder level by level”. After playing for 15 minutes, the difficulty barely increased and I was back in challenge mode. It ramps up too late, I’d say as an experienced (if not great) puzzle player. A difficulty option to increase the challenge gives this mode more legs.
Of course, if you have friends, you can continue playing multiplayer in ways that solo play can’t. There are three modes of him for two players, all of which can be played without co-op. Of course, my wife and I also found the level tradeoffs in Challenge Mode to work as another form of multiplayer. Collaborative, if not simultaneous.
The controls are simple, but there is no way to remap them. When accessing the control options, only a small non-adjustable diagram is displayed. The main reason I mention this is that the b button doubles as a confirmation a button. Given decades of muscle memory, we have to ask developers what their thought process is. Overall a small detail, but an annoyance that I have to raise my voice.
Visually, it conveys the aesthetics of paper. Obviously, most of the game was hand-drawn by a pair of preschoolers. This game was “co-designed” by them for fun exaggeration. I enjoy the animated backgrounds, but let me just say that some colors would break the monotony. Any option to make it less obtrusive (or easier for colorblind players) would be appreciated.
“Atmospheric” music is an eclectic mix. Sometimes rock, sometimes funky, sometimes chill. One song evokes an infiltration of spies, and another of his evokes memories of Atari Jaguar cartridge songs. Some fit better than others, but they’re interesting and I wish there was an in-game music player. Welcome.
Papertris is solid for its budget. I wish there were more options (and consistent challenges), but this is a game built from the classics. Local and online leaderboards are also helpful.
