PGC NEWS

Tearaway, the award-winning PS Vita title that captivated players with its unique papercraft world, has been reborn on the PS4 as Tearaway Unfolded. This isn’t just a simple remaster; developer Media Molecule has significantly expanded the game, incorporating innovative uses of the DualShock 4 controller and adding substantial new content. This review explores whether Tearaway Unfolded retains the magic of the original while successfully transitioning to the console experience.

Tearaway Unfolded gameplay featuring the papercraft world and the messenger, Atoi.

Delivering a Message: Gameplay and Innovation

Like its predecessor, Tearaway Unfolded casts you as Atoi, the messenger, tasked with delivering a vital message to “The You,” a portal in the sky representing the player (enhanced by the PlayStation Camera if available). Along the way, Atoi must contend with mischievous Scraps, box-like creatures obstructing their path. The journey unfolds across diverse landscapes, each requiring Atoi to help its inhabitants before progressing.

What sets Tearaway Unfolded apart is its ingenious use of the DualShock 4. Nearly every feature of the controller plays a role in assisting Atoi, creating a unique and engaging gameplay experience. The touchpad generates gusts of wind to propel Atoi, solve puzzles, and combat Scraps. The light bar illuminates dark paths and attracts Scraps, offering strategic advantages. These features seamlessly integrate with the gameplay, creating a tangible connection between player and the papercraft world.

Demonstrating the use of the Dualshock 4's lightbar in Tearaway Unfolded

The level design expertly balances accessibility with challenge, introducing new mechanics and controller functionalities throughout the game. Some sequences demand precise timing and coordination, requiring players to combine movement, button presses, and DualShock 4 features to overcome obstacles.

Beyond the main quest, Tearaway Unfolded offers a wealth of side activities. Players can photograph NPCs and discolored objects to unlock craftable items. The “tearaway.me” platform allows sharing in-game photos and creations with the community. The touchpad and companion app enable players to draw, take photos, and customize the game world. A charming in-game economy even lets players collect and sell items to purchase decorations and photo effects.

A Visual and Auditory Delight

Tearaway Unfolded boasts a distinct visual style, resembling a stop-motion animated film. The papercraft aesthetic, combined with vibrant, retro-inspired colors, creates a visually stunning world. From rippling water and towering mountains to the charming designs of Atoi, the NPCs, and the Scraps, every detail exudes creativity and whimsy. The dynamic lighting and shadow effects further enhance the visual appeal, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of Media Molecule.

Showcasing the vibrant papercraft environments in Tearaway Unfolded

The soundtrack perfectly complements the visuals, featuring upbeat melodies with flutes, horns, and percussion. Each new area introduces distinct musical themes that enhance the sense of adventure. The voice acting, from the narrators to the NPCs and Atoi, adds another layer of charm. The attention to detail in the sound design, including the Scraps’ comical grunts and giggles, further immerses players in the whimsical world.

Atoi interacting with an NPC in Tearaway Unfolded

Room for Improvement

While Tearaway Unfolded is a delightful experience, some minor flaws detract from its overall polish. The camera can be problematic in certain sections, leading to frustrating platforming mishaps. Despite attempts to adjust the camera, it often reverts to its default position, occasionally causing clipping issues. While infrequent, these technical hiccups disrupt the otherwise smooth gameplay.

The pacing of the narrative also feels uneven. While some segments are gripping, others drag on unnecessarily. The expanded content, while welcome, occasionally dilutes the narrative’s impact.

Finally, occasional performance issues, such as minor frame rate drops and lengthy loading times, mar the otherwise smooth 60fps, Full HD presentation.

Atoi traversing the papercraft environment in Tearaway Unfolded

Conclusion

Despite its minor shortcomings, Tearaway Unfolded is a charming and innovative adventure. The clever use of the DualShock 4, combined with the distinctive art style and engaging gameplay, makes it a unique experience on the PS4. While the camera and pacing could be improved, the game’s creativity and charm ultimately shine through. Tearaway Unfolded successfully translates the magic of the original to the console, offering a heartwarming and visually stunning journey through a world made of paper.