I Am Cat is a charming and whimsical experience that takes players on a delightful and fantastical journey of discovery and adventure as a remarkably diverse and unforgettable kitty hero. Created by a tiny team who are passionate about delivering experiences that are both toy-like and yet, offer engaging depth, the game is an homage to all things feline, a mix of continual surprises and endless charm that provides an approach the world has never seen before, through the eyes of a cat.
The game is a story-led adventure that plays out through the eyes of its main character. The tale is filled with humor and heart, tracking the cat’s mission to return home after the two get separated. Players meet a motley crew of characters, both human and animal, as they go, who all have their own oddball characteristics or stories to share. The world of I Am Cat brims with character and wit, from a cranky old neighbor who secretly loves the cat’s stunts to a pack of birds scheming a high-stakes heist.
Dialoge and narrative are the best bit, they're jokey, saucy and most perfectly feline. The cat’s monologue, filled with thoughts and reflections, deep and absurd, gives an extra charming and humorous layer to the experience, making the game feel lighthearted but not silly. It’s a game that does not take itself too seriously but also does not underestimate the intelligence of the player, striking a tenuous balance between whimsy and thoughtfulness.
One of the things that really shines in I Am Cat is its focus on player choice and mobility. Although the game has a linear narrative arc, how players decide to interact with the world is entirely open to them. The players can spend hours hunting butterflies in the garden, or napping in a sunbeam. It is a game designed with exploration in mind and rewards your curiosity, rewarding you with hidden collectibles, side missions, and if you're lucky, an Easter egg or two that can be found littered across its vibrant worlds. This open-world format guarantees no two playthroughs are the same, being able to revisit the game beyond the core narrative.
Special attention needs to be given to the sound work of I Am Cat, it really draws you into the life of a cat. And the background noises-the wind rustling through the trees, the low hum of a refrigerator, the protagonist's gentle purring-provide a vibrant, calming backdrop that pulls together the mood of the game. Ensuing feel-okay music, a mix of Disney-like busywork and brooding and soaring textures, switches between modes with incongruous ease to take whatever trajectory a scene follows, be it whimsy or poignant.
I Am Cat is also glorious to look at. A blend of watercolor-inspired textures and bold, expressive character designs, the art style provides the game with a timeless look that’s both cutting-edge and nostalgic. There’s noticeable care in the feline animation, and when Special Agent Tink is on the move, the animations are smooth and filled with personality. Whether it’s the cat arching its back during a stretch or the broad hyperbole of its pounce, the physical action is a wonder to behold.
Overall, I Am Cat is a game that rises above its simple concept to provide an engaging, rich and utterly delightful experience. It is a celebration of the joy and beauty of play and the mystery of the curious cat’s essential connection with humans. It is a must-play not just for anyone who is fond of cats, but anyone who has ever been bewitched by the racket-fueled and often, quite lovely looking world of cats.
By Jack | Copyright © Gameyaya - All Rights Reserved
