Copycat Review: An Imposter’s Affection

Cats have significantly influenced this medium’s evolution throughout the history of video games. From Felix the Cat’s introduction on the 8-bit NES to the stunning neon-lit slums of Stray, these feline beings have continually found novel ways to engage with the world, offering perspectives that captivate our curiosity. Copycat also contributes to this legacy, albeit in unexpected ways.

Copycat is a narrative-driven game developed by Spoonful of Wonder and published by Neverland Entertainment, Nuuvem Inc., and Spoonful of Wonder. Released on September 19, 2024, it is available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Mac.

From Dusk to Dawn

The game narrates the poignant tale of Dawn, a shelter cat, who finds a home with an elderly lady named Olive. However, Dawn’s world is turned upside down when a stray cat, dubbed the “copycat,” usurps her spot in Olive’s abode. The narrative delves into the depths of solitude, rejection, and the quest for acceptance, offering players a chance to delve into these sentiments from Dawn’s point of view.

“Copycat” stands out for its compelling storytelling and emotional resonance. The narrative is deeply moving and tragic, successfully immersing players in Dawn’s universe. With exceptional voice acting and scriptwriting, the game enriches the characters and their battles. Its strongest asset is the game’s power to elicit authentic emotions ranging from happiness to grief. Nonetheless, “Copycat” is not without flaws. The gameplay sometimes seems constricted, offering limited autonomy to players and often guiding them too closely through the story. This aspect may deter those who prefer a more engaging or challenging gaming experience. Moreover, the game’s tempo can be leisurely, potentially not aligning with all players’ preferences.

A Cat’s Play

In “Copycat,” the gameplay is narrative-driven, with players guiding Dawn through diverse settings, ranging from Olive’s inviting home to the unforgiving streets. The game accentuates exploration and interaction, permitting players to indulge in quintessential cat antics such as toppling objects from surfaces, pilfering food, and purring for solace. These activities are described in a manner akin to nature documentaries, lending a distinctive allure to the gameplay.

Additionally, the game incorporates mild puzzle-solving aspects and decision-making that ‘seemingly’ affects the narrative flow, yet it places a greater emphasis on immersing players in Dawn’s poignant journey rather than on intricate gameplay mechanics.

Despite its compelling narrative, the game’s clunky controls and constrained physics system detract from its potential to shine. The gameplay, reminiscent of a walking simulator, offers limited choices that ultimately have minimal or no influence on the unfolding story, serving merely as an illusion of choice.

Bleak Inside, Stunning Outside

Visually, Copycat is delightful. The game’s art style is vibrant and intricate, encapsulating the charm of snug home settings as well as the rough urban streets. However, in the initial hours, the visuals appear somewhat lackluster and faded. It’s not until the garden section that the game’s visuals truly begin to flourish, with the urban and natural environments enhancing the effect. Despite this, the game still struggles to achieve a truly atmospheric or immersive experience, owing to its inconsistent physics system and unusual lighting.

Even with its flaws, the game is captivating. The character designs, particularly of Dawn and the other cats, are delightful and full of expression, contributing to the game’s emotional resonance. The audio design stands out as well. Daniel Bunting’s original music score aligns seamlessly with the game’s mood, amplifying the emotional impact of significant scenes. The sound effects, ranging from Dawn’s soft purring to the city’s ambient sounds, are meticulously designed and engaging.

Real Talk

Copycat stands out as a beautifully crafted narrative experience, notable for its emotional storytelling and enchanting presentation. Although the gameplay may not be the most intricate, its capacity to resonate emotionally with players renders it an unforgettable adventure.

FINAL RATING: 80/100