A New Chapter for Heart Machine

In a surprise announcement that has ignited the indie game scene, developer Heart Machine has confirmed that its next major project, Possessor(s), will launch this November. The title promises to be a slick, high-octane action game set in a sprawling, interconnected world, drawing comparisons to the Metroidvania genre. This news comes amidst a packed schedule for the studio, which only just launched its 3D roguelike adventure, Hyper Light Breaker, into early access in January of this year.

While an exact date in November has not yet been specified, the confirmation of a 2024 release positions Possessor(s) as one of the most anticipated indie titles for the fall season. The game is set to deliver the studio's signature blend of challenging combat, cryptic world-building, and a stunningly unique art style, this time applied to a side-scrolling perspective. Fans of the team's previous work are already speculating on the narrative and gameplay mechanics that the enigmatic title suggests.

What is Possessor(s)?

Details on Possessor(s) remain shrouded in mystery, but its reveal trailer and descriptions point to a dark, sci-fi world ravaged by an interdimensional catastrophe. Players will take control of Luca, the host, and Reio, her otherworldly counterpart, as they navigate a quarantined city. The gameplay is built around a fast and fluid combat system that emphasizes precision, combos, and weapon variety. The 'possession' mechanic implied by the title seems central to the experience, likely allowing players to control and manipulate enemies or elements within the environment to solve puzzles and gain an edge in battle.

The structure is described as a "sci-fi side-scroller with a story-driven, choice-based structure." This suggests that while exploration will be key, as is typical for the Metroidvania genre, player decisions may have a tangible impact on the narrative's progression and outcome. The world is composed of intricately designed, interconnected levels that encourage exploration and backtracking as new abilities are unlocked, promising a deep and rewarding gameplay loop for fans of the genre.

A Busy Year and a High Bar

The announcement of a second major release in one year highlights a period of intense productivity for Heart Machine. The studio's other title, Hyper Light Breaker, a 3D co-op follow-up to their debut hit, entered early access at the beginning of the year to a mixed reception. While many praised its ambition and combat, others pointed to technical issues and a need for further polish. This context places even greater anticipation on Possessor(s) to deliver the tight, polished experience that the studio is known for.

Managing two distinct projects simultaneously is a significant undertaking for any developer, let alone a smaller independent team. However, Heart Machine has a proven track record. The studio's debut, Hyper Light Drifter, remains a benchmark for indie action RPGs, lauded for its pixel art, atmospheric soundtrack, and brutally satisfying combat. It set a high standard that the studio has been measured against ever since, and Possessor(s) appears poised to be the next evolution of its core design philosophies.

Anticipation Builds for November

With its November release window now confirmed, all eyes are on Heart Machine to deliver another standout title. Possessor(s) represents both a return to the studio's 2D roots and an ambitious new direction. Its combination of fast-paced, technical combat and a mysterious, choice-driven narrative has positioned it as a must-watch game for the remainder of the year. As the launch approaches, the community eagerly awaits more gameplay details and a final, locked-in release date for this exciting new adventure.