"I must eliminate them...ALL..." The bodiless "Hyoki" hunts down the brain-devouring "Slitterheads", lurking in the alleys of a neon-lit city
At the core of the gameplay, players can possess and control human bodies at will. This "sight-jacking" mechanic allows them to infiltrate dangerous areas, assume specific identities, and rapidly traverse the neon-lit city of Kowlong by quickly swapping between hosts. This unique possession-based system creates a frenetic and engaging experience as players strategically manage their limited human "pawns."
The combat in this game revolves around harnessing the power of blood. While human bodies are fragile, players can burn their host's life force to unleash powerful blood-based attacks against the ferocious "Slitterhead" enemies. The ability to efficiently swap hosts mid-combat enables players to continue fighting even when critically wounded, adding an extra layer of strategy and urgency to the battles.
Certain human characters, known as "Rarities," share a high synchronization with the player's Hyoki entity. By possessing these specialized individuals, players can activate unique abilities and unleash devastating attacks. Mastering the cooperative relationship with these Rarities is crucial for uncovering the game's deeper mysteries and overcoming the challenging encounters.
The combat has a low skill floor, allowing players to progress through the early stages, but it also features a high skill ceiling. Mastering the rapid switching between hosts, managing weapon durability, and leveraging the various Rarity abilities is essential for excelling, particularly on higher difficulty settings.
The combination of the possession mechanics, blood-centric combat, and the haunting, neon-drenched setting of Kowlong City creates a truly immersive and atmospheric gaming experience. Players describe the gameplay as visceral, captivating, and deeply engaging, drawing them into the surreal world.