Summary
Without a doubt though, Copycat is a masterpiece of narrative-driven gaming, featuring a story that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you emotionally invested. It is a game that is deeply Australian yet universally relatable, and one that will leave you still crying, long after the credits roll.
Developer – Spoonful Of Wonder
Publisher – Neverland Entertainment, Nuuvem Inc, Spoonful Of Wonder
Platforms – PC (Reviewed)
Review copy given by Developer
There’s something undeniably charming about media that comes out of Australia, a unique blend of heart, humor, and authenticity that resonates across the globe. Whether it’s the wholesome adventures of the Bluey, which have captivated audiences young and old, or beloved games like Hollow Knight, there’s a distinct quality to the stories Australia shares with the world. These creations often explore themes of belonging, identity, and connection in ways that feel refreshingly sincere, and Copycat, the latest narrative-driven game from the land Down Under, is no exception to Australia’s finest storytelling talents.
Copycat invites players into the life of Dawn, a wary and cautious shelter cat who has known nothing but rejection and solitude. Her world changes when she is adopted by an elderly Australian woman named Olive, who is still grieving the loss of her long-lost feline companion. Olive’s deep loneliness compels her to give Dawn a second chance at life, welcoming her into a home filled with the hope of love and safety. Over time, the bond between them grows into an intimate friendship, as their once-broken hearts begin to heal, slowly learning to beat in harmony with one another.
However, this newfound comfort is quickly jeopardized, when Olive falls ill, and a stray copycat, filled with jealousy and malice, devises an elaborate scheme to steal Dawn’s place in the household, forcing Dawn onto the streets. What follows is a touching and emotionally charged journey that delves into themes of identity, rejection, and the deep-seated desire to belong. Through this narrative, Copycat masterfully explores what it means to truly find one’s home, weaving a tale that resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place or forgotten.
When it comes to graphics, this is the only area where I can find any reason to deduct half of a point from a perfect review score. Although beautifully detailed, I’m not sure if it’s the art style or what exactly the reasoning is but the faces of Dawn and Olive look a bit “derpy” at times as seen in the image below of Dawn.
Without a doubt though, Copycat is a masterpiece of narrative-driven gaming, featuring a story that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you emotionally invested. It is a game that is deeply Australian yet universally relatable, and one that will leave you still crying, long after the credits roll.
