Adopting a cat from a shelter is always an emotional journey, but when your new furry friend turns out to be at the center of an existential crisis, things get… interesting. Time for a review!
A home like no other
In Copycat, you play as Dawn, a recently adopted shelter cat trying to settle into her new home with Olive, an aging woman who just wants some companionship. The premise hits you right in the feels from the start, as Dawn walks into Olive’s life, learning to trust again after past traumas. It’s this delicate exploration of belonging and the deep, emotional bond between human and pet that really defines Copycat as a game.
From the moment you start the game, the sensation of “home” is right there. Dawn’s perspective transforms average environments into mysterious playgrounds full of nooks to explore as any cat would do. Jumping into boxes, peeking under furniture, or observing the goings-on of the neighborhood. The art direction is charming, with warm lighting and soft colors creating a cozy, lived-in world. It’s hard not to get attached to Olive, with her weathered kindness, or to Dawn, who is a bit unsure at first but the more you play, the better you understand your new best friend.
But it’s not all domestic bliss. A key narrative twist involving a sneaky stray, the titular “Copycat”, throws Dawn’s life into chaos. The game delves into jealousy, identity, and belonging themes as Dawn fights to reclaim her place in the household. The story’s emotional highs are strong, particularly in how it captures the fragility of bonds, both human and felineand really leaves a mark while playing.
Not so purrfect
If there’s a weak spot in Copycat, it’s the gameplay. While controlling Dawn can be enjoyable, especially during moments of playful exploration, the more “gamey” aspects often feel underdeveloped. There’s a handful of mini-games and quick time events, like the occasional catfight or a chase sequence, but none of these really stick to the landing. They’re playable, sure, but they lack the polish or complexity to make them memorable. Jumping mechanics, in particular, feel frustratingly limited; you can only interact with objects deemed relevant to the story, which takes some of the fun out of the exploration and makes the world feel more limited than what you would anticipate.
Still, there are moments of genuine delight. A dedicated “purr” button? Sign me up! It’s these small, thoughtful touches, like purring during a quiet moment with Olive, that elevate the experience beyond just another indie adventure featuring a cat.
A touching story that misses the ending
What really sets Copycat apart is its emotional depth. Dawn’s journey isn’t just about settling into a new home; it’s about figuring out where she truly belongs. The relationship between Olive and Dawn feels real, and their bond grows stronger as you learn more about Olive’s strained relationship with her daughter, Mae. These moments pack an emotional punch, making you reflect on family, loyalty, and what it means to have a place in the world. However, in my opinion, Copycat falters towards the end. After building up to some heavy themes like aging, loneliness, and even mortality, the conclusion feels rushed, leaving many questions unanswered. The game sets up such a deep emotional connection, but by the time the credits roll, the resolution feels abrupt and underwhelming. It’s not quite the tearjerker ending I expected, and that lack of closure holds it back from greatness.
Conclusion:
At around three hours of gameplay, Copycat is a short but meaningful experience. Its strengths lie in its storytelling and emotional depth, with a cast of characters that will stay with you long after the game ends. Yet, its clunky gameplay and unsatisfying narrative conclusion prevent it from reaching its full potential.
