Puzzle games rarely get the balance right. On one hand, they are perfect for a veteran audience that loves to be tested. Alternatively, they are far too easy and are perfect for newcomers. Consequently, whatever happens, there is always an upset party that can’t be appeased. When I was offered Sissa’s Path, I worried that it would fall into this trap. However, its gentle difficulty curve ensures there is something for everyone.
Developed by AFIL Games and Eastasiasoft Limited and published by the latter, this is a 3D puzzle title. What’s more, it is gloriously relaxing, easy to the eye, and can be enjoyed casually. Yet, it’s too rigid in its approach and this prevented it from excelling. Disappointingly, there is a lack of depth as the gameplay relies on one key component. As such, the protagonist follows the same routine across every stage.
Sissa’s Path is cute but shallow.
Unfortunately, Sissa’s Path fails to tell a rich story or create depth of any sort. Subsequently, all you know is that Sissa is an organised kitten that loves to play with wool. Therefore, her OCD nature demands that she push her ball of wool around expanding stages as she compartmentalises her existence.
This is Sissa’s Path in a nutshell. It is a logic-based puzzler that demands forward thinking and spatial awareness. Each stage comprises x amount of wool balls, and you must push each one to a specific point. Moreover, each of the items can only be pushed if the space next to them is free. As such, you must think ahead and ensure that you create a pathway in order to succeed.
A casual experience.
Compared to its peers, this title is underwhelming. Sadly, it lacks a high degree of difficulty, and it has no additional elements to consider. Accordingly, once you get used to the key principles, there is nothing else to master. This was unfortunate, as on paper, it is a cute and fun game to play. In reality, though, it can only be enjoyed casually.
Had the developers incorporated some drip-fed mechanics, it would have been much better. However, they tried to enhance the difficulty by offering no guidance and minimal ways to rectify errors. This was great, but it didn’t go far enough. I’d have loved other cat-related paraphernalia to keep the gameplay and the theme in line. Disappointingly, though, this never happened.
Sissa’s Path looks pleasant.
The soft colour palette and simple stage design create a satisfying finish. However, Sissa’s Path rarely kicks on from its basic format. Disappointingly, there is a lack of variety and the only real change is the size of each stage. Accordingly, though I liked what I saw, it become pretty repetitive early on.
The same can unfortunately be said about the audio. A stripped-back but comfortable soundtrack plays on a loop. This calm music sets the scene but does little to help the déjà vu nature of the experience. Furthermore, there are no sound effects to discuss, nor are there any environmental noises. In short, it’ll leave you wanting even if you enjoy its rudimentary approach.
Simple but clunky controls.
With simplicity at its core, I didn’t expect a complex control setup. Luckily, the straightforward controls make it easy to learn. Yet, it was clunky and cumbersome to navigate each tight space. This was frustrating, especially when you consider the minimal error rule. Consequently, you’ll spend plenty of time restarting each puzzle because of a navigational error.
Alongside the wayward controls was a lack of replay value. With no NG+ mode or depth, there is little reason to return. However, the 40+ stages do progressively become more challenging. Subsequently, this inexpensive title is still good value for money.
Sissa’s Path needed more elements.
I enjoyed the cute theme, the pleasant visuals, and its calm approach. However, I can’t ignore its lack of depth. Accordingly, this is a puzzle game that will interest newcomers more than genre veterans. As such, I recommend that you buy it despite its shortcomings. Can you help this OCD kitten to tidy up? Think ahead, push the balls of wool, and clear every stage.
