Little Kitty, Big City

When Stray meets Untitled Goose Game

If you’ve played Stray and wished its feline protagonist was less ginger and way more mischievous, I think I’ve found the game for you. Little Kitty, Big City is a puzzle platformer that puts you in the boots of a black puss. In an unfortunate series of events, you fall from your favorite napping spot on the window sill of your apartment and now you have to climb all the way back home — because how can your adopted human possibly survive without you?

The game is somewhat reminiscent of Untitled Goose Game, both visually and mechanically, which can be a positive if you’ve enjoyed that game. There’s a small, sectioned, open world map that you can navigate through by doing what cats do, which is walking, running, jumping, climbing, and, most importantly, knocking things over. You meet other animals along the way that act as your quest-givers, as well as different humans who are either walking the streets or doing some sort of activity. Unlike Stray, Little Kitty, Big City allows you — and on occasion even encourages you — to be more mischievous, meaning you’re free to harass the humans who don’t pet you or let you steal their stuff. (How dare they?)

While I wouldn’t call this game a collect-a-thon, there are collectible hats (because it’s a 3D platformer) that you can find by exploring the map, buy from the greedy crow, or earn by completing side quests. You could argue that the game is too short, as it can be completed in one sitting, but I think it was long enough for me to enjoy while having the grace not to overstay its welcome. There’s also the option to come back down after completing the main story, in case you missed something and want to go for 100% completion.

I think the game’s only flaw (if we don’t count the length) is its controls. They’re a little janky and make parts of the game more frustrating than they have to be. But it’s not a deal-breaker, in my opinion. Overall, I think it’s safe to say that Little Kitty, Big City is not winning any GotY awards, but it’s a wholesome, feel-good, funny experience that lets you know how awesome it is to be a cat — even if it’s for a short time. If you’ve enjoyed games such as Untitled Goose Game, Lil Gator Game, or A Short Hike, I suggest you give Little Kitty, Big City a chance.