Possessor(s)
" Fast-paced action adventure with innovative combat and emotional story but frequent bugs "
Possessor(s) Review
Possessor(s) by Heart Machine is a visually stunning metroidvania with a strong narrative centered on the relationship between Luca and Rhem, exploring themes of toxic relationships and a dystopian world. The game combines tight combat mechanics inspired by platform fighters with exploration and backtracking in a richly designed world. Players praise the art direction, soundtrack, and emotional storytelling, often comparing it favorably to the developer's past hit, Hyper Light Drifter.
However, the game is not without flaws. Many players report issues with the map design, tedious backtracking, unclear mechanics (such as using the whip to break walls), and some bugs including softlocks and performance problems on certain platforms. Combat can feel clunky at times, with frustrating enemy stunlocking and lack of invincibility frames. Despite these shortcomings, the game offers a rewarding experience for those who enjoy challenging metroidvanias and appreciate its unique style and atmosphere.
Highlights
Players highly praise the game's captivating story and character dynamics, especially the emotional bond between Luca and Rhem.
The art direction is widely acclaimed for its unique style, detailed character designs, and atmospheric environments.
Gameplay mechanics, including the whip traversal and combat juggling system, are noted as innovative and satisfying once mastered.
Additionally, the soundtrack effectively complements the dark, moody setting, enhancing immersion.
Exploration rewards curiosity and the world design offers varied, distinct zones that contribute to the game's strong atmosphere.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game's poor map design, which lacks detail and useful indicators, making exploration and 100% completion frustrating.
Backtracking is frequently described as tedious due to limited fast travel points and large, sprawling areas.
Several players mention unclear or unexplained mechanics, such as how to use upgrades or break certain walls with the whip.
Combat issues include stiff animations, enemy stunlocking without invincibility frames, and occasional clunkiness.
Bugs and glitches, including softlocks, stuck objects, and performance drops on some platforms, detract from the experience.
Some players find the dialogue uneven and the pacing of the story and exploration slow.
Pros
- • The emotional story and character relationship between Luca and Rhem is deeply engaging.
- • Art direction is exceptional, with detailed character designs and immersive environments.
- • Combat mechanics are innovative, combining metroidvania and platform fighter elements.
- • Whip traversal adds satisfying mobility and creative puzzle-solving opportunities.
- • Soundtrack effectively enhances the mood with dark, moody, yet hopeful lofi music.
- • Exploration is rewarding with a variety of distinct, atmospheric zones.
- • Boss fights are memorable and provide satisfying challenges.
Cons
- • Map design is lacking, with poor detail and no percentage completion indicators.
- • Backtracking is tedious due to limited fast travel points and large areas.
- • Some gameplay mechanics and upgrade systems are unclear or poorly explained.
- • Combat can feel stiff and clunky, with frustrating enemy stunlocking.
- • Frequent bugs and glitches, including softlocks and stuck objects, affect progression.
- • Performance issues exist on Steam Deck and some lower-end hardware.
- • Dialogue and story pacing can feel uneven or amateurish at times.
Rating Criteria
Possessor(s) is a fast-paced action side scroller with combat inspired by platform fighters, a story told through dangerous characters, set in a deep interconnected world ready for exploration.