Critical reception of Puss has been well liked, with reviewers praising him in the movies and describing him as "cute", "suave", "lovable", "charismatic", "feisty", "engaging", "legendary", "an instant charmer", "a natural-born star", "a notorious adventurer", the "suavest of swashbuckling cats", and "the world's greatest feline swordfighter". He was also regarded as "smooth-talking", "heroic", "honorable", self-confident, "passionate", loyal, with "humble" origins. "Collider"s Christina Radish described Puss as "charming and unforgettable", adding that he "was a cat destined for great things". Radish said that Puss getting his own movie was no surprise, commenting that the character has a "tremendous heart", and is a "much-loved fighter". "Fantasy Magazine"s Andrew Penn Romine called Puss "equal parts rogue and hero", but Stephen Holden of "The New York Times" described the character as "this vain, spoiled, swashbuckler". According to Holden, Puss is not "as clear-cut a personality [in "Puss in Boots"] as he was" in the "Shrek" movies. "IndieLondon"s Rob Carnevale called him a "cheeky feline swashbuckler" and "Puss in Boots"s "enigmatic central character". Todd McCarthy of "The Hollywood Reporter" described Puss as a "dashing little kitty centerstage", "ever-bold", and "a self-deprecating, sometimes bumbling but ultimately dashing swordsman". McCarthy enjoyed Puss's "vigorous physicality" in "Puss in Boots". Neil Genzlinger of "The New York Times" called Puss "endearing", "dashing and fearless but also a tad reckless". Chrissy Iley of "The Telegraph" described him as "the world's most seductive animated cat". "IGN"s Andy Patrizio enjoyed Puss in "Shrek 2", and Scott Collura of the same website said that Puss "remains dignified and cool" in "Shrek Forever After" despite his weight gain. The character has been regarded as a source of comic relief.