Stray Review: The Cat’s Pajamas
I’ve been known in some circles as the guy who ‘gushes’ over cute animals. A puppy opening his eyes for the first time? I’m on the floor. A duck found injured in a park then nursed to health? Sobbing. When I first saw Stray, I felt that same excitement over the adorable cat paired with the strange environment, but was concerned that the game itself wouldn’t live up to the visual beauty. Not only does Stray present itself as an interesting and appealing sci-fi story, but it sticks the landing on all four paws.
Well Oiled Humanoid Machine
In Stray, you play as a nameless cat who must escape a cyber-city filled with humanoid robots and reunite with the outside world. The layers of the cyber-city that you’re trapped in, however, offers perfect opportunities to explore and delve deep into the lore of the game. One of my immediate reactions was the attention to detail in every crevice of the world. Languages unknown to me, art created by these robots, and traces of a distant human race flashed through my tv. Not only was I invested in the immediate world and situation with the robots, but I was constantly thinking “but where are the humans in all this”?
Thankfully, the fascinating world building doesn’t stop in the first area. Through progression, wide varieties in cultural interests in the robots can be uncovered, as well as different visual cues to further deepen the world of the robots. Discoveries humanize the robots further, and I could not help but forget that they were mechanical creatures. All of this is done in a stunning fashion. Beautiful color-popping visuals, gritty environments that simply come off disgusting (in the best way imaginable), and meticulous details shine throughout the thoughtfully crafted cyber-city and its inhabitants.
Stray goes even deeper, not only with the environmental touchstones, but the individualized characters as well. Each robot has their own name, backstory, and even side objectives that you can explore. As per the story, some are required in order to progress, but many are optional and certainly worth the time. I found myself exploring constantly to discover little surprises, strange items, or clues which aid in completing objectives or simply offer a bit of fun. During my initial playthrough, I completed most of the side items; about 70% based on various collectibles. I am already chomping at the bit to play Stray again to learn what I missed and how it can impact the already meaningful story as a whole. BlueTwelve Studio should be commended on the remarkable environmental storytelling accomplished through fine detail and subtle care; a trait I would like to see emulated by more studios in the future.
The audio design of Stray is another presentation factor to be celebrated. The aural experience kept me on paws at all times. While playing with headphones, every drop of dripping water, each creaking mechanical limb, and the subtle purrs and coohs from the cat transport the player into this living, breathing world even further. The interesting mix of ominous techno beats throughout the score also flavored in the cyberpunk vibe of the game while also focusing on the grim outlook that many of the robots had.
Big Stretch
While the world building and narrative elements are top-notch throughout, Stray’s most impressive feat is the actual gameplay and authenticity of the cat physics. The emphasis of all the movements and character traits boil down to the believability of being a cat - which the game absolutely achieves. In the first moments, the player is introduced to the options of using items as a scratching post, taking a moment to nap, drinking some water, and jumping up to the highest points - all precisely executed as if it was a genuinely real cat. As a cat owner myself, I also appreciated the meow button, as well as all the subtle facial and body movements that the cat would make throughout the game. From the idle animations of cleaning itself to the subtle ear twitches, and even the fact that the cat would look around while events are happening really brought a smile to my face. It also doesn’t hurt that this cat is absolutely adorable.
The actual utilization of the cat physics is something I’ve come to deeply appreciate throughout my playthrough. Sure, there are plenty of opportunities to scratch a couch and nuzzle on a robot’s leg. However the longer I’d play, the more I’d find myself thinking like a cat.
“Ok, lemme get to the highest point so I can survey the area”
“Hm, maybe I can knock something over to annoy that robot”
“What if I draw these creatures’ attention then hope over with those pipes?”
The immersion was enticing and only continued to heighten the enjoyment of the game. Immersion as a cat will entail a few chase sequences as well. The hunt for small, dangerous, and cute creatures could be a bit frustrating due the possibility of failing at any point. But luckily, these sequences are short lived throughout the game.
Breakdown
Game: Stray
Developer: BlueTwelve Studio
Availability: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC
Reviewed on PlayStation 5
Pros:
+ Fantastic cat physics to allow for multiple gameplay mechanics
+ Interesting lore for current and past events of the game
+ Vibrant and deliberate colors to distinguish various areas
+ Immersive audio design
Cons:
- Occasionally frustrating chase sequences
Final Thoughts
Stray is engaging and awe-striking from start to finish. The impactful and deep lore achieved through outstanding world building is unmatched. The audio design and score beautifully captures the setting, the vibe, and the tone of the cyber-city and its inhabitants with subtlety. The thoughtful and intuitive gameplay creates a rare sense of captivating immersion. All of this and more elevates Stray from being a “fun cat game” to a must-play exploratory sci-fi experience for all.
Reviewed by Harry Loizides