We’re going on an adventure! - Moss: The Forgotten Relic Review | The Gamerheads Podcast

Platform reviewed: PC (Steam)

Price: $19.99

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When Moss was initially launched, I was excited to try it out. Unfortunately, it was exclusively available in VR, and since VR makes me motion sick, I felt disheartened, fearing I might miss out on the game. I particularly love games featuring small creatures on grand adventures. Once it became available outside of VR, I seized the chance to play without hesitation.

Removing the VR barrier allowed me to join Quill on this grand adventure.

I have a strong affection for platformers, particularly those that involve puzzle-solving and revealing a deeper narrative beyond the initial title screen. Moss lived up to my expectations as a third-person platformer set in a world where small creatures often find themselves in grand adventures.

Books serve as portals to new adventures and offer a sense of escape from the unpredictable world around us. There is nothing quite like immersing myself in a book, imagining that I am running alongside the characters and experiencing their journey firsthand. As Moss started its opening sequence, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement as I opened a book within the game. The story truly began when I was quickly introduced to Quill, the game’s main character, a young mouse eager to explore and live her own narrative beyond the confines of her home. What a fantastic way to begin! It immediately captured my attention.

The pacing was excellent. I became comfortable with Quill’s movements as I learned to use my wisp to assist Quill. I was actively participating in the story as it unfolded! Once Quill and I discovered some new ways to interact with each other, the narrative took a turn. Suddenly, I was assisting Quill on a new adventure through different environments, where I needed to help my little friend by moving stones, manipulating enemies, and quite literally turning the page of Quill’s journey in each new area.

Fourth-wall breaking is one of my favorite storytelling devices; it was a pleasant surprise to see in Moss.

Throughout the game, I took on a dual role. I directed Quill using the left analog stick and was also recognized by the characters for my actions with the right analog stick. I actually exist in this world too! This mechanic was entirely new to me. I hadn't encountered it in this manner before, particularly in a platformer, and I'm certainly not complaining. Moss excels at integrating the player into the story without it feeling disjointed. I genuinely felt like I was diving into the pages of the book to explore this land with Quill.

Throughout the story, I alternated between controlling myself and Quill to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles, all while keeping the camera angle fixed. The combat in the game was also very fluid, it required me as the player to assist Quill in defeating any enemies we encountered. I also enjoyed discovering collectibles in each area, which were easy to identify, although solving the puzzles to access them required an extra braincell or two. The wall-climbing mechanics were near seamless, and the spots where you could hang were distinctly marked by a noticeable texture change. Well done!

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Final Grade: A

Moss redefines the concept of interactive play. The smooth transition from cutscenes to gameplay, along with its stunning art design, fully immersed me in the world, allowing me to explore it as if I were right beside Quill. The gameplay flows effortlessly with a controller, and the combat elements introduce a sense of urgency without being overwhelming. I highly recommend Moss to anyone who loves platformers with plot twists, light combat, and an adorable mouse companion!

Review code provided by UberStrategist PR