Stray achieves exactly what it sets out to do, and does so wonderfully. While it won't wow everyone, it's one of my favorite games I've played this year.

At it's core, Stray's primary focus is cat-traversal and puzzle solving. The developers really leaned into the whole "you play as a cat" concept, and it shows in the level design. Many times you'll quite literally have to think like a cat as you scope out the environment, trying to figure out your next move. It's great! The puzzles, however, offer little to no challenge most of the time and I would have preferred just a little more.

Above all else, I have to praise this game for its art direction. Every new area you come across has been lovingly designed with detail everywhere. There are so many scenes that are truly impressive, especially for an indie title. Stray also absolutely bleeds atmosphere at every corner - and it somehow manages to be both charming and eerie. The style on display here is seriously on point.

If you like atmospheric puzzle-platformers, or games with excellent art direction (or cats), definitely pick this one up. It's an experience definitely worth checking out.

Stray achieves exactly what it sets out to do, and does so wonderfully. While it won't wow everyone, it's one of my favorite games I've played this year. At it's core, Stray's primary focus is cat-traversal and puzzle solving. The developers really leaned into the whole "you play as a cat" concept, and it shows in the level design. Many times you'll quite literally have to think like a cat as you scope out the environment, trying to figure out your next move. It's great! The puzzles, however, offer little to no challenge most of the time and I would have preferred just a little more. Above all else, I have to praise this game for its art direction. Every new area you come across has been lovingly designed with detail everywhere. There are so many scenes that are truly impressive, especially for an indie title. Stray also absolutely bleeds atmosphere at every corner - and it somehow manages to be both charming and eerie. The style on display here is seriously on point. If you like atmospheric puzzle-platformers, or games with excellent art direction (or cats), definitely pick this one up. It's an experience definitely worth checking out.