One look at the launch trailer for Crossing Souls and you should definitely get it. The VHS artifacts, crude retro animation, bright neon colours, and setting that is all kids going on an adventure. But beneath the look and the wonderful pixel-art filled with seemingly countless references lies a pretty good story. And a heartfelt one too.

So much so that our review is spoiler-free.

There's a classic cinematic feel to the pacing that similarly nostalgia-based games often miss entirely. Even if you’re only passingly familiar with the many works that Crossing Souls references, there’s a sense of familiarity and comfort to be found with the opening parts of the story. The stakes are low, with the emphasis instead placed on exploring the neighbourhood, venturing into town, and catching up with friends. From the kid scientist whose parents are also scientists, to the trailer-dwelling girl with an alcoholic father, and the son of a hard-working retailer. Each character has their own personality and traits which become apparent during the many moments you can swap them out depending on the obstacle.

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