PS4's Prettiest Game Doesn't Exactly Push the Platform's Power

Cast your anticipation for Uncharted PS4 aside, as Heart Machine’s upcoming Hyper Light Drifter may have already pipped Naughty Dog’s next-gen debut to the prettiest production values post. As part of a meaty message on the PlayStation Blog, studio head Alex Preston has revealed a new trailer for his team’s upcoming Kickstarter funded adventure – and it’s knocked this editor sideways. The clip offers an introduction to the 8-bit inspired outing’s warped world, while also teasing the title’s outrageously inviting visuals and chiptune soundtrack.

Set to release on the PlayStation Vita as well, the impending excursion sees you take control of a character known as the Drifter – a hero who has access to technology long forgotten by the inhabitants of the title’s setting. Unfortunately, the protagonist carries a fatal ailment, which forces him to travel through the ruins of civilisation in search of a solution. Despite the deep narrative, the release will not be stuffed full of dialogue and exposition, preferring to relay its plot through storyboard-esque sequences and the world itself.

In addition to the attractive art style and audio – which is being scored by Rich Vreeland of Disasterpiece fame – the developer’s also talking up the combat, which will emphasise empowerment at every opportunity. “Each enemy reacts to strikes with visible knockback, flashes, and brutal sound effects,” explained Preston. “We spend a great deal of time tuning our systems, adding meaningful feedback to the controls, visuals, and audio design so that they feel responsive.” Of course, if you’re still not convinced, we’re sure that the trailer will change your mind.