Lost Soul Aside, a project that began over a decade ago as a solo endeavor, is finally on track for a full release on August 29, 2025, with Sony Interactive Entertainment as its publisher. Originally hailed for its visually striking trailer and combat system that drew comparisons to AAA titles, the game now re-emerges following hands-on previews and a planned showcase at ChinaJoy in early August.
Final Fantasy Meets Devil May Cry in Lost Soul Aside’s Combat
Lost Soul Aside’s combat system takes cues from action-heavy series like Devil May Cry and Final Fantasy, combining fast-paced fluidity with a skill-based system that rewards perfect timing and strategic positioning. Players can perform both light and heavy attacks using long or short presses, supplemented by active abilities like area-based ground slams. One of the standout mechanics includes “pursuit attacks,” which activate after a successful dodge or parry and allow the protagonist to teleport and unleash high-damage combos.
The game’s user interface has undergone several updates over the years, now featuring a cleaner, more minimal design with improved contrast and screen real estate. Notably, UI elements animate in sync with player actions, giving real-time feedback during flashy combat sequences—a detail retained from its earliest builds.
RPG Mechanics and Linear Exploration
Lost Soul Aside does not follow an open-world formula. Instead, it utilizes wide but linear levels filled with combat encounters, collectibles, and platforming sections. Exploration remains focused, guiding players through curated maps that offer some optional detours for rewards. Early impressions noted the inclusion of light puzzle mechanics and simple traversal challenges, with most early-game discoveries falling on the accessible side of difficulty.
The game supports a robust RPG system. Multiple weapon types—ranging from swords and sickles to ranged tools—introduce varied playstyles. These can be customized with “weapon fragments,” which alter stats, visuals, and even combat mechanics. Additionally, a talent tree allows players to enhance existing skills or unlock new abilities, while crafting adds further depth through the creation of over a dozen potion types with restorative or offensive effects. Equipment transmog options and pre-order bonus skins expand the visual customization options even further.
Performance Mode vs Graphics Mode: Visual Trade-Offs
The preview build provided access to only two graphical settings: a performance mode that targets 60FPS and a graphics mode that prioritizes visual quality. Performance mode preserved smooth gameplay but blurred distant scenery, while the graphics mode resulted in unstable framerates. In a game reliant on fast reflexes and fluid action, such inconsistency can detract from the experience.
Other criticisms involved underwhelming lip syncing, repetitive audio design, and imprecise enemy interactions. These rough edges point to the project’s decade-long development cycle and raise concerns about how its older design philosophies will be received by players accustomed to modern standards.
Endgame, Challenge Modes, and Replayability
Despite the linear campaign, Lost Soul Aside aims to provide replay value through arena and boss challenge modes. These offer rare upgrade materials that tie back into the crafting and weapon enhancement systems. While it’s not yet clear how expansive these modes will be, they promise at least some post-game content beyond the main story.
As for difficulty, there is no selectable option in the build previewed. Instead, the game dynamically assists struggling players with optional buffs and equipment—echoing accessibility tools seen in other games. This system intends to strike a balance between rewarding skill and maintaining progression for less experienced players.
Even visual customization gets a boost thanks to the inclusion of a transmog system. New skins—including pre-order exclusives—let players go beyond Kazer’s default black leather jacket and personalize their appearance further.
