Diving Deep into Possessor(s): A Stunning, Yet Frustrating, Cyberpunk Descent
Possessor(s), the latest offering from Heart Machine (creators of Hyper Light Drifter), plunges you into a visually arresting cyberpunk world brimming with unsettling beauty and thought-provoking themes. Though, beneath the striking aesthetics lies a gameplay loop that, while intriguing, struggles to fully deliver on its promise. This review will dissect the game’s strengths and weaknesses, offering a extensive look at what makes Possessor(s) a uniquely captivating, yet ultimately flawed, experience.
A Disjointed Narrative in a Vast World
The game’s narrative unfolds in a fragmented manner, mirroring the fractured psyches of its protagonists. You’ll spend considerable time exploring the sprawling cityscape of Sanzu, frequently enough without direct story progression. Flashbacks are strategically placed, allowing you to piece together the histories of Luca and Rhem, the two individuals linked by a risky possession technology.
Both characters are deliberately reserved,hesitant to reveal their inner selves. Consequently, Possessor(s)‘ true power resides in its broader commentary on unchecked corporate power.Agradyne, the monolithic corporation at the heart of the story, serves as a chilling allegory for real-world entities like Amazon, relentlessly pursuing dominance. The stark social divide within Sanzu - the haves and have-nots – further underscores this critique,with Luca firmly planted among the marginalized.
A Visual Masterpiece,Even in Decay
Despite the societal decay,Possessor(s) is undeniably gorgeous. Heart Machine continues its tradition of crafting visually stunning worlds, and sanzu is no exception.Early on, you’ll encounter a breathtaking sight: a vibrant orange rift tearing across the sky, immediately demanding your attention.
the game transforms mundane locations into hauntingly beautiful, yet dangerous, environments. You’ll navigate through a dilapidated aquarium, a decaying school, and treacherous dockyards, each location meticulously detailed and imbued with a sense of unease.
Creature Design: A Blend of the Familiar and the Terrifying
The enemy designs are equally inventive and unsettling.Possessed objects – from everyday traffic cones to unassuming potted plants – become grotesque threats. Flying globes blink with malevolent eyes, and a particularly memorable enemy resembles a robot straight out of the Saga comic series, constructed from computer mice and topped with a monitor head.
Then there are the sharks with legs, relentlessly pursuing you through the streets like a Pamplona bull run.The sheer creativity on display is impressive, and the abundance of creepy eyes (a trope the game knowingly acknowledges) adds to the overall unsettling atmosphere.
The Maze Within the Beauty: A Frustrating Exploration Loop
Unfortunately, Possessor(s)‘ strengths are hampered by its exploration. While the world is visually captivating, the Metroidvania-style labyrinth frequently enough feels directionless. Getting lost isn’t always rewarding; it can lead to frustrating dead ends and a sense of aimless wandering.
The joy of discovery is diminished when the path forward remains obscured, turning a perhaps immersive world into a confusing maze.
Final Verdict
Possessor(s) is a game of striking contrasts. It boasts a compelling narrative, stunning visuals, and imaginative creature design. However, its disjointed storytelling and frustrating exploration mechanics prevent it from reaching its full potential.
Despite its flaws, Possessor(s) is a worthwhile experience for fans of cyberpunk, Metroidvanias, and thought-provoking narratives. Just be prepared to navigate a beautiful, yet often bewildering, world.
Possessor(s) is currently available on PlayStation 5 and Windows PC. This review was based on a prerelease Steam Deck code provided by Devolver Digital. You can review Polygon’s ethics policy for further clarity.
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