Introduction

Returnal, the PlayStation 5 exclusive from Housemarque, throws you into a brutal and beautiful alien world. As Selene, a stranded astronaut, you’re trapped in a time loop, forced to relive the same harrowing day again and again. Death isn’t an end, but a reset, sending you back to the beginning with altered environments and weaponry. I’ve spent countless hours battling the relentless enemies and exploring the ever-shifting landscape of Atropos, and this review details my experience with the game.

Features

Returnal offers a compelling blend of fast-paced, third-person shooter combat and challenging roguelike mechanics. The gunplay is tight and responsive, with a satisfying weight to each shot. Exploring Atropos feels rewarding, uncovering secrets, upgrading weapons, and gradually understanding the cryptic lore that surrounds Selene’s plight. The level design is fantastic, with each biome offering its own unique challenges and environments.

While the game is primarily a single-player experience, the replayability is incredibly high. The constant change in enemy placement, item drops, and environmental hazards keeps each playthrough fresh and exciting. The tension never lets up, and the feeling of accomplishment after conquering a particularly difficult section is truly satisfying.

Performance

Visually, Returnal is stunning. The environments are rich and detailed, with an unsettling beauty that perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere. The frame rate is mostly rock-solid, providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The sound design is also exceptional, contributing significantly to the game’s immersive quality. The music and sound effects are perfectly synchronized, creating an atmosphere of dread and suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

However, the difficulty can be a significant hurdle. Even experienced players will find themselves repeatedly dying, and the relentless nature of the roguelike mechanics can be frustrating at times. This is not a game for the faint of heart, but that intensity is also what makes it so compelling. The steep learning curve requires patience and persistence, but those willing to put in the time will be rewarded with an incredibly rewarding experience.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Stunning visuals, intense and engaging gameplay, high replayability, excellent sound design, challenging but rewarding.
• Cons: Extremely difficult, unforgiving, can be frustrating for some players.

Final Verdict

Returnal is a masterpiece of roguelike design. Its relentless difficulty, stunning visuals, and compelling narrative create an unforgettable gaming experience. While its unforgiving nature might deter some players, those who embrace the challenge will discover a truly rewarding and unique adventure. I wholeheartedly recommend Returnal to fans of challenging games with a high degree of replayability and a unique atmosphere. The sheer satisfaction of overcoming its challenges is unparalleled.