MOSS Review for PlayStation VR

Has anyone else been looking for a exhilarating quest to plunge into on the PlayStation VR? Well, the search might just be over for the time being. Take up an epic journey as Quill in the world of Moss by Polyarc, it’s a worthwhile endeavor! Playing through this puzzle adventure game is sure to strike an emotional chord while flipping through the pages of what seems reminiscent of a Lord of the Rings book.

Premise:

As a “Reader” in a Gothic style library get transported into an enchanting fairy tale land, where sword wielding mice and fireball spitting snakes inhabit an old land full of magic and wonder. Quill, the cutest little hero mouse, and a spirit released from a magical shard make their way through a mysterious and dangerous world full of relics, giants, and mouse sized castles.

Gameplay:

In Moss the player controls two characters simultaneously: Quill with normal controls of an adventure game and the other, the Spirit, with the POV of the VR headset and moving the controller around in front of the camera to move large objects. The Spirit’s point of view allows you to gain a new perspective for Quill’s puzzle like levels she needs to concur. The two characters work as a symbiotic pair helping each other to overcome a dark force and rescue Quill’s uncle. The pair can interact in some ways throughout the game other than solving puzzles and fighting baddies together, Quill uses cute sign language to give in game hints to the player and the spirit can heal, freeze enemies, and even pet quill just for fun. Combat with enemies is spars though, but often enough to keep things interesting. The roster of opponents range from small beetles to giant devastating turret with a whole host of other variations to keep things interesting. Of course, there is aforementioned fireball blasting snake, Sarffog, who is a gargantuan force to be reckoned with at any size and is even more daunting while playing as a little mouse, as mighty as she might be. The game does play off of the miniature scale of the hero well though. Giving Quill an advantage while she is diving into holes and tunnels for cover to escape otherwise deadly foes. Seeing the world from her tiny perspective is a treasure all on its own and will not fail to delight anyone willing to gander the towering trees, massive ponds, and gigantic woodland creatures. Moss proves to be a great game for VR novices and veterans due to the seamless VR gameplay and storytelling.

Conclusion:

This is truly one of the best gaming experiences I have had in years. The joy of playing in a game similar to Legend of Zelda or Prince of Persia full of puzzle platforming and robust storytelling will be one soon not forgot. Moss was set in such a delightful and rich environment that was so well enhanced by the VR immersion it made me just stop playing and enjoy being in the world. The sights, the sounds, and the feel of being in this fantasy storybook will will make you cheer for Quill and her unique land. I can’t wait to see what Polyarc does next, fingers crossed for another installment of Moss. I’m just not ready to let go of this beautiful fairy tale book they’ve built, so I will absolutely be playing this game again. This is a colossal hit in the mousiest of packages.

Pros:  Immersive, Amazing Storyline, Fun Action, Fun Puzzles, Beautiful, Great score

Cons:  Limited to climbing on only specific surfaces, can be hard to see some things

Rating:

10/10

Here is the Moss Launch Trailer:

Moss is now available at PlayStation Store, GameStop, and Amazon for $29.99 USD MSRP. The game is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB. For more information, visit www.polyarcgames.com.

Greg Vander Velde

+ posts

I've been a life long nerd and video game junkie known to associate with the likes of Link, Nathan Drake, Batman, and Master Chief. I'm a filmmaker by profession, but spend lots of time behind a controller escaping the real world. @GregVelde on Instagram/Twitter/YouTube

• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Review for PlayStation 5
• The Rogue Prince of Persia Preview for Steam Early Access
• SAND LAND Review for PlayStation 5
• Lorelei and the Laser Eyes Review for Steam