Possessor(s): PS5 Review

Developed by Heart Machine
Published by Devolver Digital
Platform: PS5

There's something about the Metroidvania platform game that keeps bringing people back.

And so it is with Possessor(s), a platform game that takes the best of the genre and twists its own spin on proceedings. Following a demon-led invasion that obliterates the city of Sanzu and leaves protagonist Luca at death's door, a demon called Rhem offers her a deal - he'll heal her if she does one thing for him.

With no legs and no option, Luca takes the deal - but of course, as with any deal with the devil, the truth isn't as simple as it seems. As they're forced to team up, the pair take on various obstacles on their quest - and Luca finds that Rhem hasn't been entirely honest with her.

It's really the banter between Luca and Rhem that makes Possessor(s) such an interesting title. Starting with an intriguing tale that mixes manga with mayhem and a side of monsters, the game really has a way of getting its hooks into you right away.

It's a simple hack and slash in many ways - a game that uses the mechanics you've played with before in many different games. From taking on kitchen knives to hack at victims or using your whip to Indiana Jones it from level to level, the game is very familiar.

So in order to keep it fresh, Heart Machine's deployed an idea that makes things more enticing - the enemies are everyday objects that demons have tried to possess and connect with and failed. It means the likes of traffic cones can menace you and provide plenty of minor laughs while beating you senseless.

From land-locked baddies to airborne ones as well as boss fights, the game offers up some chunky challenges even on easy mode. And while the world of Sanzu is well-realised, it's the interplay of the stories of Luca and Rhem which keeps Possessor(s) such an intriguing and enjoyable game.

It won't win any awards (sadly) but what Possessor(s) offers is a solid and enjoyable slice of platforming that's well worth investing time and effort in.