In our port roundups, we cover games that get re-released to new audiences through a launch for different platforms. Today, we check out PERISH, Planet of Lana and Bit Dungeon+, which all received PS5 builds recently.
PERISH review (PS5)
PERISH, from developer ITEM42 and HandyGames, marries the intense action of a first-person shooter with the procedural challenge of a roguelite, all set against the backdrop of a mythological underworld. Released now on PlayStation 5 after its debut on PC last year, PERISH invites players to embody Amyetri, an outcast trapped in the liminal space of Purgatory, yearning for liberation by vanquishing divine beings and eventually traversing to Elysium.
Diving into PERISH’s amalgamation of mythologies, players will find themselves wielding an arsenal of weapons ranging from swords and hammers to pistols and bows, each with its own unique offensive capabilities. The gameplay, while feeling familiar in its first-person action/shooting mechanics, offers a twist with the risk-versus-reward dynamic of danake, the currency of choice for the underworld. Slaying enemies yields this danake, which can be used to purchase equipment upgrades or stashed for safety, but falling in battle means losing whatever wealth you have accumulated. This system injects a strategic layer, adding tension to each encounter as you’re forced to make quick choices.
While the core combat mechanics works well and features responsive controls, the game isn’t without its flaws. Feedback on enemy attacks feels lacking amid chaotic battles, and the linearity of each run towards Elysium can lead to repetitive gameplay, especially in earlier levels where familiarity breeds routine. However, the standout boss fights always inject a level of excitement, with imaginative designs and challenging battles demanding skill and adaptability – though some of them can go on for a bit too long if you’re no expert.
Elaborating on that, the roguelite elements can sometimes fall short of providing enough variety, and fixed map layouts and enemy placements diminish replayability, while the balance between upgrade options feels off. Yet, despite these setbacks, the game’s addictive gameplay loop finds redemption in its co-op mode, where tackling the underworld’s trials with friends amplifies the fun.
Visually, PERISH impresses with its grandiose environments and detailed enemy designs, drawing inspiration from ancient mythologies while delivering a unique aesthetic. The metal-infused soundtrack complements the action, elevating boss encounters to epic proportions – though it was a touch too loud for some of us. Also, the game’s mid-to-late stages suffer from pacing issues and a lack of enemy variety, and we would have welcomed a few more twists in that area.
In summary, PERISH is a compelling blend of genres and mythological motifs. While it falters slightly in certain aspects, its potential shines through, especially in multiplayer sessions. With engaging gameplay mechanics and immersive visuals, your journey through Purgatory may not be flawless, but it also offers glimpses of something special.
Planet of Lana review (PS5)
Planet of Lana, developed by Wishfully and published by Thunderful, is a breathtaking cinematic platformer that immerses players in a journey brimming with emotion and adventure. Set on a serene planet invaded by a faceless robotic army, players follow Lana, a young girl on a quest to rescue her kidnapped sister amidst the chaos. The game beautifully intertwines themes of hope and despair against a backdrop of stunning hand-painted environments, reminiscent of the artistic prowess seen in titles like Limbo and Inside. We loved the game when it launched on Xbox, but it has now been released for PlayStation as well – giving us a second look.
Drawing inspiration from classics like Limbo, Planet of Lana introduces players to Lana’s partnership with her adorable companion Mui, echoing the compelling dynamics seen in our earlier Xbox review. Together, players navigate treacherous landscapes and solve puzzles to progress, although occasional pacing issues may lead to frustrating moments on your initial playthrough. However, the game’s captivating narrative and charming character dynamics compensate for these minor setbacks, drawing players deeper into its world.
Visually, Planet of Lana captivates with its painterly art style and diverse landscapes, from breezy meadows to dank caves, each accompanied by a distinct soundscape that enhances the immersion. While the game’s insta-fail stealth mechanics and sometimes formulaic puzzles may occasionally hinder the experience, they don’t overshadow its strengths. With its compact yet impactful story, memorable music, and great sense of momentum, Planet of Lana offers a refreshing addition to the side-scrolling genre, leaving a lasting impression on players who appreciate well-crafted adventures. Not to be missed, and its Switch and PlayStation launch only makes that easier.
Bit Dungeon+ review (PS5)
Bit Dungeon+ aims to deliver a classic dungeon-crawling experience, blending elements from Diablo and Zelda into a straightforward yet engaging adventure. As players navigate through randomly generated rooms, battle diverse enemies, and confront the game’s bosses, they’re propelled by the quest to rescue a captured friend from demonic forces. The game’s simple yet addictive gameplay loop, reminiscent of arcade games at times, offers a nostalgic journey through pixelated dungeons. Dolores released it years ago on PC, but it’s now been ported over to the PlayStation 5.
Visually, Bit Dungeon+ embraces retro pixel art, which, while charming, doesn’t quite distinguish itself amidst today’s crowded indie scene. Similarly, the soundtrack adds to the nostalgic ambiance but may feel repetitive over extended play sessions. However, the addition of cooperative multiplayer injects new life into the experience, allowing friends to team up and tackle the dungeon together, enhancing both the challenge and enjoyment of the game.
But while Bit Dungeon+ excels in delivering a straightforward and accessible roguelike experience, and as such will appeal to fans of the genre, its lack of depth in mechanics and repetitive nature may limit its appeal to players seeking more complexity and/or something fresh. Despite these drawbacks, its cooperative mode offers an entertaining diversion for those looking for some lighthearted dungeon exploration with friends. Overall, Bit Dungeon+ provides a solid option for casual gamers craving a simple yet engaging adventure through pixelated dungeons.
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