Possessor(s): A Tragic Metroidvania
Heart Machine, the studio behind the acclaimed Hyper Light Drifter, is back with a new project: Possessor(s), a side-scrolling metroidvania platformer that blends the best of Hollow Knight and Creaks. The game features a unique premise: demons possessing everyday objects like vending machines and printers.
A Tragic Uprising
These aren't your typical violent demons. Their rage stems from the agony of inhabiting inanimate objects, creating a surprisingly tragic narrative. The demonic invasion itself is portrayed as an uprising, sparked by a nefarious corporation's experiments. This adds a layer of moral complexity, making even the act of fighting the possessed objects feel a little unsettling.
Stylish Combat and Characters
You play as Luca, a charming anime-inspired teenager who loses her legs early on and forms an unlikely partnership with Rhem, a demon in need of a new body. Their bond feels like a Faustian pact with romantic undertones. Combat utilizes a variety of unconventional weapons, from a computer mouse to a guitar, adding a quirky touch to the action. While the combat system itself is described as functional rather than revolutionary, the unique weaponry and character design still make it a compelling experience.
A Captivating World
The game is set in a vast, ruined city with a dark, Berserk-inspired atmosphere. The visuals are striking, blending soft neon lights and imposing shadows. Exploration is encouraged, with a large interconnected world waiting to be discovered. However, a later quest involving finding eyeballs to bypass retina scanners felt a bit jarring, potentially breaking the immersion for some players.
A Promising Metroidvania
Overall, Possessor(s) appears to be a promising metroidvania with a strong visual style, unique premise, and intriguing characters. The game manages to balance the dark themes with a lighter, more personable narrative, reminiscent of certain anime. While the combat may not reinvent the wheel, the creative weapon choices and the unique world make it worth keeping an eye on.
1 Image of Possessor(s):
Source: Rock Paper Shotgun