From Litterbox to Lead: Cat Detective Albert Wilde | The Gamerheads Podcast

Platform reviewed: PC

Price: $11.99

Nothing is quite as it seems in Cat Detective Albert Wilde. In this cinematic point-and-click adventure, I play as Albert Wilde, who is the best detective in the 1930s or so he likes to think. In my conversations with people who knew Albert and others involved in the case, I soon discovered Albert possessed a substantial ego regarding his detective skills that bordered on arrogance. The story lightens the tone by introducing comedic moments throughout the investigation of a mysterious death. 

I have played a few similar detective games in the past like Frog and Duck Detective so I am curious to see how this game compared in a few different categories. First, can I solve the mystery without struggling to move forward with a clue? Second, what makes this game unique from all the other detective games? Lastly, do I truly feel like a detective or was the game linear that it didn’t matter the path I took?

In regards to solving the mystery, the gameplay feels straight forward enough that I’m able to get to the end. There was only one part when trying to figure out how to get one of the suspect’s husband out of the locked bedroom that I briefly couldn’t figure out the next step, but I eventually was able to continue forward. Without spoiling the ending, there is such a big plot twist at the end of the story that the original mystery gets solved throughout all the chaos. Let’s just say, it involves a lot more cats. I remember closing the game and just staring at my screen in shock trying to process what the actual heck just happened.

I enjoy the versatile gameplay that combines uncovering clues with short narratives. I interrogate suspects and then use that information to solve a puzzle or determine my next moves. It’s hilarious that I have to take Albert to a dance studio to learn how to dance and the instructor ends up being an ex-lover. After learning to dance, I then go back to that suspect to prove I am worth their time. This proceeds to show me the silliest cutscene of Albert attempting to dance. So many little story beats like this make me realize that Albert isn’t the best detective. In all these quirky moments, Albert eventually finds himself face to face with a mob that I have to fight in the sewers?! Never did I think that a game could have so many plot twists to its narrative.

Which leads me to my final question: is the game linear or do I truly feel like a detective? I believe that I have the power to make my own choices and some are always better than others. However, there is a set path to follow in order to solve the story. I’m fairly certain there’s only one ending as I obtained all the achievements when I finished. Throughout the story, I did feel like it was up to me to notice the small details or see the patterns that were unfolding in front of me. The way the game guides me in the right direction feels natural without feeling like there is only one way forward. 

Final Grade: A-

Cat Detective Albert Wilde stands out in the “animal detective” game category by taking a spin on the cute and cozy vibes. This game absolutely dives head first into the crude comedic narrative where I could never guess what Albert is going to say next. I enjoy the blend of interrogations and puzzles that make me truly feel like a detective. If you are looking for a detective game with tons of comedy and a little bit of science fiction, Albert Wilde is ready to pounce on his next mystery with you!