Review of Possessor(s): Dynamic Action with a Slow Start and a Deep Story

Possessor(s) is a fast-paced action game that starts off quite slowly. I was impressed by the 2024 trailer from Heart Machine, the developers of Hyper Light Drifter. The trailer featured a unique art design: an animated 2D character explores side-scrolling environments with beautiful 3D backgrounds set to atmospheric music. However, the final version of the game, released this month, was not as impressive as the trailer and almost made me want to quit — but I still pushed through to the end. In the game, you control Luka — a girl inhabited by a demon named Rem from another world. After a catastrophe, Rem saves Luka by giving her legs, and from then on, she becomes his vessel. Now they can communicate and see each other's memories. Their relationship is tense, and they often argue, which sometimes complicated my emotional engagement. Over time, they come to understand each other and their worlds better.

Heart Machine describes Possessor(s) as a "fast-paced action side-scroller," but it is a typical example of a Metroid or Castlevania-style game. You explore interconnected worlds with various zones, use a map to find your next path, and collect upgrades for movement, such as wall-running. At the beginning, you have a whip — a tool for traversing large distances and your main weapon. The combat resembles platform fighting games like Super Smash Bros.: fast, dynamic, using items found in the environment. My strategy involved close combat with a large baseball bat, using electric shocks from my phone for retreat, and throwing demonic utensils at distant targets. Parrying is a key part of the battles. Initially, the game was extremely challenging: enemies deal heavy damage, and a mistake can cost you your life without quick reflexes. After dying, you are returned to specific respawn points, but the way back is fraught with dangers.

The healing system is reminiscent of Souls-like games, where flasks are replaced with painkillers. At first, the game felt more frustrating than enjoyable. I got lost on the map, exploring unnecessarily, not understanding how to get through mysterious light barriers. I even considered quitting the game. However, after learning to use the whip to overcome obstacles, gaining a few health upgrades and painkillers, and understanding the deeper relationship between Luka and Rem, I began to enjoy it. The Metroid-style gameplay, where you explore new areas, find upgrades, battle bosses, and repeat the cycle, became very engaging.

Possessor(s) didn't captivate me right away, but patience paid off. The final level tested my skills, and the boss battle was impressive. After watching the credits, I felt the same emotions as from the first trailer. The game is now available on PC and PS5.