Moss PlayStation VR Review

Game: Moss
Publisher:Polyarc
Developer:
Polyarc
Genre:Action Adventure
Players:1
Age Rating:12+
Other console/handheld formats:Quest 2

Since being revealed at last year’s E3, Moss quickly became one of the most highly anticipated titles for Sony’s PlayStation VR. The fact that the game stars a cute and charismatic mouse and also takes inspiration from the likes of the Zelda series was enough to peak many people’s interest, and it turns out that Moss is one fine adventure that also makes excellent use of the PlayStation VR headset.

Moss stars a cute mouse called Quill, and while you do actually take direct control of the small rodent, this is another game that provides the proof that VR games do not have to be in first person to be immersive. Like I mentioned, you do actually control Quill, but as a being called the Reader, you are also an onlooker in this storybook adventure.

Visually, the world of Moss certainly has a lot of appeal, and is a varied enough place across the games rather brief playing time. Quill herself has personality in each and everything she does, and whether jumping, climbing or fighting she’s also brilliantly animated, and is undoubtedly the star of the show that many will want to help out. The game is also beautifully presented, with its simple but enjoyable story scenes taking place inside of a storybook in which you turn the page to move from scene to scene.

Moss has quite a number of puzzles across its duration. The most important thing is that these puzzles are largely very well designed, but are not overly taxing. Using the DualShock 4, puzzles often involve interacting with the environment, and moving and turning certain objects, and you’ll even find yourself using enemies to your advantage from time to time.

You’ll also find yourself involved in combat situations every so often, with Quill fighting with a little sword. The combat is very simple, but it’s enjoyable enough and also very fun to watch. As the Reader it’s possible to heal Quill when she is injured by picking her up, and you can also use certain enemies against others.

As an adventure Moss may be overly simplistic for some, but this is far from the game’s biggest flaw. At only three to four hours in length and priced at a rather steep £24.99, the game feels rather overpriced for what you get. Offsetting this is the lost fragment collectables, as well as the game’s big budget and the fact that it’s one memorable adventure, and it’s also difficult to feel any negativity towards the game when you see little Quill in action or when you manage to solve a well designed puzzle.

As a PlayStation VR game, as well as a brilliantly designed adventure, Moss is a title that is very easy to recommend, and there’s an adorable mouse at centre stage as well. A few things do keep the game from reaching classic status, with the length being the chief reason, but there’s still much to like here in a magical adventure that will appeal to many different people. With a sequel apparently on the way, hopefully the world of Moss will just keep on expanding.



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