As quoted on the Steam page, “Possessor(s) is a fast-paced, action side scroller with combat inspired by platform fighters”. Developed and produced by Heart Machine and Devolver Digital, The Possessor(s) demo is a promising platform fighter in a post-apocalyptic sci-fi world and is inspired by games such as ‘INSIDE’, ‘Signalis’ and ‘Control’.

Set in Sanzu city, a metropolis under the rule of a megacorporation, you play as a girl named Luca, who survives a major demon attack on the city. You also play as Rhem, who is a demon that escaped from the city’s deepest lab. Their only hope of survival is learning to coexist with each other.

In the beginning, you meet Luc, who is barely alive after losing her legs. Shortly after this, you meet Rhem, who is also on the brink of dying. After reading through the dialogue, you both agree to help each other by coexisting. There is a decent amount of reading, as there is no voice acting, so you must be attentive to keep up with the story.

Controls are barebones. The game walks you through all the controls at the start, including dashing, running, attacks, and learning to use the whip to swing, climb, or use against enemies. The controls were relatively easy to get used to; however, the wall jumps and whip were initially frustrating or awkward to use but became more manageable with practice.

The most frustrating thing I found at times was not knowing where I was supposed to go. I understand it is a platformer, but if I am stuck in an area for a certain amount of time, a little hint or something to point me in the right direction would be handy, as this quickly killed my desire to play the game. I found the combat to be decent but clunky at times; however, it wasn’t all that bad, as the graphics made up for it.

I’m sure there will be different abilities to unlock when the full game releases, but for now, you’re stuck with the whip and kitchen knives. I wish there were a bit more to the demo than just slaying foes and platforming, but I suppose it’s enough to see the potential of the game and its superb graphics.

The graphics are undeniably superb. The dark and gloomy scenery, with splashes of bright colours from the fires or various destroyed buildings around the landscape, provides a great view in this side-scrolling game and something that stood out to me the most.

The soundtrack also enhanced the graphics, providing a post-apocalyptic feel to an already dilapidated city. A dark and gloomy soundtrack, accompanied by the crisp slashes of kitchen knives, was a nice addition to the game.

Overall, The Possessor(s) Demo was a play-through, but I do wish there was some more substance to the game, especially hints when stuck in a particular area for so long. The gameplay was smooth, and the fighting was satisfying; however, the graphics and landscape stood out to me as the most impressive aspects. The possessor(s) has the potential to be a good game, but only time will tell what the devs have in store for us.

Written by: Larry