Polyarc, the studio founded by former Bungie developers known for their acclaimed Moss series, has officially announced a major new release that removes the barrier to entry for many fans. Titled Moss: The Forgotten Relic, this puzzle-platformer and action-adventure hybrid is coming to PC and consoles this summer, requiring no VR headset to play.
This release marks a significant shift for the studio, bringing the beloved adventures of Quill to a broader audience. By consolidating the experience into a single, non-VR format, Polyarc aims to redefine how players interact with the world of Quill.
A Unified Non-VR Experience
Moss: The Forgotten Relic does not merely port the existing games; it fundamentally reimagines them. The title combines the original Moss and Moss: Book 2 into one cohesive journey.
Key features of this new release include:
- Consolidated Gameplay: Both previous titles are enhanced and merged into a single experience.
- Platform Accessibility: Available on PC and major consoles without virtual reality hardware.
- Enhanced Puzzles: Environmental challenges are refined for standard controller and keyboard/mouse inputs.
This approach allows new players to dive into Quill’s world without the need for specialized VR equipment, while offering returning fans a fresh perspective on the ancient realm.
Revisiting Quill’s Journey
In The Forgotten Relic, players once again take on the role of guiding Quill, a small mouse with a big heart. Quill quests through an ancient realm filled with mystery, seeking adventure and uncovering the secrets of her world.
The core loop remains familiar but polished:
- Navigate Environmental Puzzles: Use wit and precision to solve complex challenges.
- Engage in Combat: Face off against various foes in strategic battles.
- Master Platforming: Overcome difficult jumps and platforming sequences.
Danny Bulla, Polyarc’s cofounder and design director, emphasized the emotional core of the project. “Our team has a deeply personal connection with the world and characters of Moss,” Bulla stated. “With The Forgotten Relic, we're excited to invite players into Quill's journey to share the wonder, mystery, and heart at the center of Moss.”
A Legacy of Acclaim
The original Moss was released for PSVR in 2018, earning praise for its innovative use of VR to create a sense of companionship between the player and the protagonist. I reviewed the title at the time, calling it a standout experience for its genre.
Similarly, the sequel, Moss: Book 2, received high marks upon its 2022 release. Reviewer Henry Stockdale provided a similarly positive assessment, highlighting the series’ ability to blend tight gameplay with emotional storytelling.
By releasing The Forgotten Relic on traditional platforms, Polyarc is ensuring that these acclaimed narratives and mechanics are accessible to the widest possible audience. For those who have yet to meet Quill, this summer’s release offers the perfect entry point. For veterans, it provides a new way to explore the lands they already love.
Watch the announcement trailer above for a look at the game’s visual style and gameplay mechanics, and check out the first screenshots in the gallery below to see how Quill’s world translates to non-VR displays.
