Axel and his dog Pixel are stuck in a dream world based on his paintings, and to escape from the dream world and return to reality, Axel and Pixel will need to solve puzzles and traverse the stylized landscapes that Axel has painted. The single-player campaign is comprised of a total of 24 stages spread out over four distinct seasons. The game’s environments are rendered through hand-drawn art and digitally altered images. Axel can only communicate with the player through expressive motions and nonsensical language.
The player does not have direct control over Axel; instead, they are responsible for directing a magic pointer across the screen to interact with the many things that are highlighted. Objects include the next piece of the puzzle and collectibles such as Pixel’s dog bones and sceneries for Axel to sketch. Action sequences can also trigger Quick Time Events, which demand precision from Axel to be completed successfully. The player is allowed up to three suggestions per level to help them on the way to the next objective, and Axel cannot die or become stranded in the game.
Minigames that are unlocked as the player advances through the single-player campaign are based on the vehicle-driving levels found in the main game. The player’s performance in these vehicle-related games (driving, boating, and hot-air ballooning) is scored according to their skill level, and achievements are rewarded for high scores.
