Returnal

 PlayStation 5
User Score
7.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 3997 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,738 out of 3997
  2. Mixed: 333 out of 3997
  3. Negative: 926 out of 3997
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  1. FurionPS4
    May 2, 2021
    9
    Finally a game that feels fresh, new, and innovative. I love the notion of this rogue like. I don't know if this game is for everyone, but if you're into the genre, this is a definite perfect game for you. It's definitely worth the price tag because after you beat the game and unlocked all the items and permanent gear you enter into a straight up Rogue game. In my opinion the game reallyFinally a game that feels fresh, new, and innovative. I love the notion of this rogue like. I don't know if this game is for everyone, but if you're into the genre, this is a definite perfect game for you. It's definitely worth the price tag because after you beat the game and unlocked all the items and permanent gear you enter into a straight up Rogue game. In my opinion the game really starts in Biome 4, and the end game loop is perfect for competitive players who want to get the highest scores in challenge tiers.

    The only con is that the maps feel small, and I think they can take a cue from games like Risk of Rain 2 and expand the terrains to be larger and wider, they can also even make even larger monsters. Risk of Rain 2 has less maps, but for some reason it always feels fresh in every run. And I've put thousands of hours into it, combining with Steam and PS4/5.

    But this is still one of my top favorite games of 2021. I highly recommend Returnal to people into the genre. If you're not into this genre but are curious, just know this is a tough game for newbies, you're going to die a lot, but don't worry there is a mechanic which makes every run add progressions to your weapons, and discovery rate of items you need. Each run will help you move forward.

    It would definitely help if they add a multiplayer Coop, that would be amazing!

    See you in Atropos!    … Expand
  2. Pourya1992
    May 3, 2021
    10
    GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY GOTY goty
  3. Raidzer
    Dec 21, 2021
    7
    Геймплей который затянул, прекрасная графика, отличный сюжет, шикарно использованные возможности геймпада. Это была бы отличная игра, если бы не одно НО... Техническая составляющая. Бесконечные вылеты и потери прогресса, баги с неоткрывающимися дверями и по итогу потери прогресса и это все за стоимость ААА проекта. Если и брать то только по огромной скидке и с железными нервами.Геймплей который затянул, прекрасная графика, отличный сюжет, шикарно использованные возможности геймпада. Это была бы отличная игра, если бы не одно НО... Техническая составляющая. Бесконечные вылеты и потери прогресса, баги с неоткрывающимися дверями и по итогу потери прогресса и это все за стоимость ААА проекта. Если и брать то только по огромной скидке и с железными нервами.
  4. mijhailmijichic
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Tiene un excelente gameplay frenetico y enganchante la historia impide que dejes el mando el unico detalle es el punto de guardado que lo pueda permitir
  5. Thorbannder
    May 8, 2021
    5
    Don't believe the fake 0's it's. All the people that can't play it...Great game challenging but rewarding...
  6. nandika
    May 30, 2021
    4
    Aaaah, yes. THE GAME for masochists. What you call "hardcore gamer" who loves a challenge, I call a no-lifer who actively seeks frustration because his comfy life doesn't offer him any challenge anymore. And of course this game comes in the Second Year of The Pandemic with people eager to feel that crippling fear that they felt only when they left the house. Don't get me wrong, I love theAaaah, yes. THE GAME for masochists. What you call "hardcore gamer" who loves a challenge, I call a no-lifer who actively seeks frustration because his comfy life doesn't offer him any challenge anymore. And of course this game comes in the Second Year of The Pandemic with people eager to feel that crippling fear that they felt only when they left the house. Don't get me wrong, I love the concept, the graphics and the sound design, but the fact there's no difficulty settings and no save points makes it unplayable for people who don't have infinite time, dexterity and patience. That means grown-ups... So thank god I don't buy digital games, because the 90 dollars it really costs in my country... man, I would've been **** furious. Thanks for the guy who borrowed it to me so I can form an impression.… Expand
  7. Excal97
    Sep 19, 2022
    0
    Entirely too hard, for the sake of being hard. Not fun. If you kept some progress between deaths I might be fun. Literally nothing to show for hours of grinding an deaths? No thanks. Not everyone is 12 with nothing to do but grind for 100s of hours. Hard pass for any level of casual gamer.
  8. RottenCritic
    Oct 1, 2022
    4
    Tried this thanks to the PS gamepass which is great value. I've played all 3 dark souls, Bloodborne, Nioh and even Demon souls. So I understand that difficult games are difficult, but fair. Can't say the same with this. Maybe because it's a shorter game than the others the developers felt it necessarily to make you start all the way at the back every time you die. The game is fun to playTried this thanks to the PS gamepass which is great value. I've played all 3 dark souls, Bloodborne, Nioh and even Demon souls. So I understand that difficult games are difficult, but fair. Can't say the same with this. Maybe because it's a shorter game than the others the developers felt it necessarily to make you start all the way at the back every time you die. The game is fun to play but after dying a couple of times I play something else. One time I didn't touch Returnal for a month because why bother. At least with the Souls games there's a feeling of progression when you unlock a new bonfire and get to explore a new area. That feeling is lacking here and there's only frustration. A real pity, because it's fun and has very nice graphics, but it's not accessible to the average Joe. Glad I didn't buy it.… Expand
  9. Syfin
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Из проектов студии играл в superstardust и resogun. Обе игры были хорошими стрелялками. А теперь в этой игре то же самое, только от третьего лица с сюжетом и атмосферой ридли скота. Что еще для счастья надо
  10. Pan_T
    May 2, 2021
    10
    I just beat the third boss, and I feel like I'm playing something really special. I really feel like a next gen Bloodborne (best PS4 game). Saving the game with smaller portions of play using rest mode is not optimal, but there is a checkpoint after the third level.
    I feel like I'm in H.R.Giger's dream. Masterpiece! 10/10
  11. ClaytonCarmine
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Best Rouglike Ever, Best Housemarque Game all time! This is the only decent Playstation game that will last for many years.

    Thanks Housemarque !)))
  12. Ortalion
    May 2, 2021
    9
    Great game. Nice gameplay and feeling from shoting. No Bugs at all. Great graphics ! Very hard but its good.
  13. tec
    May 11, 2021
    4
    For a rougelite shooter it´s lacking. Especially if it comes to upgrades, there aren´t really that much. Add to that the fact that you only have one character especially when there are similar games like RoR2 which done the same years ago with a bigger variety and a optional coop multiplayer up to 4 I find it unbelivable to ask full price for such a singleplayer only game. While theFor a rougelite shooter it´s lacking. Especially if it comes to upgrades, there aren´t really that much. Add to that the fact that you only have one character especially when there are similar games like RoR2 which done the same years ago with a bigger variety and a optional coop multiplayer up to 4 I find it unbelivable to ask full price for such a singleplayer only game. While the gameplay itself is fine, it´s prone to get boring really fast unless you´re a type of person which doesn´t mind repeating the same thing again and again. Too bad since I had high hopes in housemarque, really digged their games since the ps3...… Expand
  14. Jelle87
    May 2, 2021
    10
    The game is hard.. really hard ( for me ) But damn I love every run I make
    Dualsense and 3d audio make it even better
  15. Natzore
    May 3, 2021
    10
    DISCLAIMER: this game lacks any kind of save feature. A normal run takes anywhere between 30 minutes and 2+ hours, so if you made the very questionable life choice of having kids this game is not for you, don’t buy it without first reading reviews only to come here and complain next. It’s not on the developers who want players to have a certain kind of experience, it’s on you. Not everyDISCLAIMER: this game lacks any kind of save feature. A normal run takes anywhere between 30 minutes and 2+ hours, so if you made the very questionable life choice of having kids this game is not for you, don’t buy it without first reading reviews only to come here and complain next. It’s not on the developers who want players to have a certain kind of experience, it’s on you. Not every game has to be tailored to your needs, therefore this doesn’t negatively impact my review.

    Returnal elevates roguelike games to the AAA Olympus with high production values and a gameplay experience incredibly polished all the way down to every little detail. Sound design is superb, especially with headphones. You can pinpoint the exact location of every off-screen enemy and dodge them accordingly.

    All the Dualsense features are put to very good use: the haptics really help with immersion, for example you can feel every raindrop in rainy areas and every hit has a “weight”. The use of the adaptive triggers to switch between normal and alt fire mode is also genius and makes for a more fluid and seamless gameplay overall.

    On the technical side, graphics are incredible. Ray-traced global illumination really helps to make the game world feel alive and realistic, and the high amount of particle effects makes combat look pretty and flashy. Frame rate is very stable, never had a noticeable dip. And loading times like fast travel are nearly instantaneous thanks to the PS5 SSD.

    As for the difficulty, it’s not as bad as people make it up to be especially if you have experience with fast-paced and/or “bullet hell” shooter games. I completed the whole game with 11 deaths and the only shooter games I played in the last 5 years are Destiny 2 and Doom.    … Expand
  16. redscauser
    Aug 30, 2021
    10
    thats game are not cost 70 $, no other game not cost 70$, but this "game" are **** thank you acess media for lying everywhere, 1 of 10, bruhh
    upd: change the my opinion, normal rogue like game if you byu it on sale)
  17. iuri-fd
    May 2, 2021
    10
    So far it's a great game. Makes great use of the dualsense and have a very immersive world, not to mention the controls that are super fluid and responsive. It's not for anybody though, it gets really challenging later on. If you like hard games go for it, if you don't maybe wait for a sale, but I definitely recommend playing this game at some point.
  18. Blair1989
    May 1, 2021
    9
    Very challenging and rewarding game. Great showcase for ps5. But you have to be patient.
    Won't be for everyone.
  19. Mercian54
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Returnal is not for everyone to begin with! From my experience playing you only understand why its a masterpiece the more hours you in.. excellent gunplay beautiful and terrifying world. Would recommend it to anyone who is craving for a challenge ;)
  20. J_PSX_07
    May 2, 2021
    9
    Wow this game is amazing!!!!!, i love the pace of it, just to let you know this game is not easy and you will die alot but when you start to get used to it you will manage to survive alot more......well done housemarque
  21. jaahman
    May 1, 2021
    10
    Game is very challenging but at the same time fun and addictive and keeps me coming back every time. Btw it’s my first rogue like game and I can say that I’m a fan. Housemarque really out did themselves and I can’t wait to see what kind of game they create next.
  22. roominkpaper
    Jun 17, 2021
    7
    good gunplay and movement. beautiful music and excellent sound design.

    However, the boring protagonist and weak rogue-lite mechanics bring this game down a lot. Your runs get boring as there are no builds, variations, creative strategies, etc.

    A solid 7/10 game.
  23. Ricardoguaro
    May 2, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Excelente juego, una gran sorpresa. Bastante difícil, acción al máximo nivel.… Expand
  24. pinelos
    May 2, 2021
    8
    The only reason that I don't vote 9 or 10 is because I Need something like save. Brilliant gameplay.
  25. Marcz3ra
    May 1, 2021
    10
    Housemarque’s Returnal is a brutal rogue-lite that constantly keeps the fun coming through its well-thought-through item system that is exquisitely balanced and its randomized gameplay design that feels fresh after every death. Definitely a must-have game for the PlayStation 5.
  26. alomarin
    May 2, 2021
    8
    The game looks great in every aspect: graphics, sound, playability; but I am giving it a 8 (instead of 9) because of the lack of checkpoints or even the option to save and exit the game without losing all your progress, it sucks, specially with some bugs affecting the game forcing you to close (recycle) the run and start all over.
  27. Jogens
    May 3, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Świetna gra! Dawno nie grałem w tak trudny, a zarazem satysfakcjonujący tytuł. Mechanika strzelania, animacje, efekty cząsteczkowe, istne dzieło sztuki, roguelike pełną gębą!! :)… Expand
  28. moealbunni
    May 2, 2021
    10
    loved the game and the challenges it gives , i finished it twice already , the minute i finished it the first time I directly jumped to the second run , it was hard to adapt to the no save thing , but once you learn to use the space man statue and the other tricks the game becomes much easier , the sound track is legendary , the game pushes you to figure out what you need and what youloved the game and the challenges it gives , i finished it twice already , the minute i finished it the first time I directly jumped to the second run , it was hard to adapt to the no save thing , but once you learn to use the space man statue and the other tricks the game becomes much easier , the sound track is legendary , the game pushes you to figure out what you need and what you dont , i loved the game and i wish it was longer… Expand
  29. Zloj_Pes
    May 2, 2021
    8
    8 часов на прохождения, умер 4 раза и это все было на первых уровнях с голым персонажем, если уровни максимально досконально все обыскивать, очень быстро перекачиваешься и становиться очень сложно было убить, у меня на финальном боссе было 7 аптечек, а босс сносил по 10% процентов жизни где то, челенж нулевой, в принцепи все боссы довольно легкие в игре, хоть иногда летит куча8 часов на прохождения, умер 4 раза и это все было на первых уровнях с голым персонажем, если уровни максимально досконально все обыскивать, очень быстро перекачиваешься и становиться очень сложно было убить, у меня на финальном боссе было 7 аптечек, а босс сносил по 10% процентов жизни где то, челенж нулевой, в принцепи все боссы довольно легкие в игре, хоть иногда летит куча проджектайлов, уварачиваться от этого спокойно можно, у меня больше проблем было с некоторыми минибосами, где я был на грани смерти

    Сама по себе игра очень и очень крутая, как игра выглядит, играется очень зашло, разные сюриалистические сцены в доме тоже удивляли. Но поиграв после этого еще 3-4 часа, посмотрев видеобзоры, я увидел что как рогалик, игра ну не самая лучшая, все уровни довольно не разнообразные, умерев пару раз на одном биоме быстро начнёшь замечать как все повторяеться, предметов которые резко меняю твой гемплей как в айсаке нет, билды сильно разные не сделаешь. Оружие прям как в hades вроде все разное и по разному стреляет, но по факту гемплей от этого сильно не поменяеться, конечно если только дробовик не взять, который слегка бесполез, когда есть супер мощная ближния атака.

    Хотел бы увидеть дальше новые крупнобюджетные игры от этой студии, но лучше не рогалик, а линейную, но полностью проработаную игру    … Expand
  30. Memo_
    May 2, 2021
    10
    One of the best games i played in my live it’s new and unique if you love soul games your in the right place
  31. GiRThWoRMJiM
    May 3, 2021
    5
    I was ready to give this game a 9/10. Then, about 2 hours into my best playthrough (after collecting many upgrades of my preference and getting my favorite gun with an awesome alt fire)... the game crashed!
    Upon reboot, you guessed it... i had to start over.
    That earned the game a solid 5/10. A failing score, as this issue is a fatal flaw in the structure of the game. Very ambitious,    I was ready to give this game a 9/10. Then, about 2 hours into my best playthrough (after collecting many upgrades of my preference and getting my favorite gun with an awesome alt fire)... the game crashed!
    Upon reboot, you guessed it... i had to start over.

    That earned the game a solid 5/10. A failing score, as this issue is a fatal flaw in the structure of the game.
    Very ambitious, a definite showcase for the PS5, but poorly-executed idea.

    I went from really into it, to less into it, to more into it, to beat it to get rid of it.    … Expand
  32. Cless
    May 2, 2021
    10
    So I've put in like over 25 hours in the game so far (haven't finished it yet, I like to take my time lol) and I think this game is the best on the PS5 so far. So many good things. I haven't experienced any crashes. A few funny bugs in a couple cutscenes where an object was duplicated and just floating around the scene lmao. Smooth gameplay. Think Control.. but much faster. Also theSo I've put in like over 25 hours in the game so far (haven't finished it yet, I like to take my time lol) and I think this game is the best on the PS5 so far. So many good things. I haven't experienced any crashes. A few funny bugs in a couple cutscenes where an object was duplicated and just floating around the scene lmao. Smooth gameplay. Think Control.. but much faster. Also the enemies (gameplay design and aesthetically) are much much better than in control imo. The story is very intriguing. And Selene is surprisingly well written character throughout the game. Weapons and mobility feel great. and the stakes are HIGH. This is a chellenging game for sure. And they have implemented the OST so well. One of my favorite things in the game are the bosses and they NAILED that aspect especially with the OST. It's a very arcadey game (controls are very responsive and mobility is insane and fast paced) but at the same time it looks very cinematic and awesome. Addicting moment to moment gameplay has me "returning" to this game every chance I get.

    As for the price point. Look. It's a big discussion.. and it depends on who you talk to in general and not just regarding Returnal. However, for me personally, I believed in the game and hoped it'd be what I wanted.. and it succeeded and surpassed my expectations.. and if that doesn't merit the price point.. then I don't know what would.


    Conclusion: Amazing showing from HouseMarque and I hope this ushers the developer into a new era of greatness. This game is a must have for PS5 owners who like challenging games. This isn't an easy game but in a good way. Great and fluid gameplay, amazing visuals. Very mesmerizing art direction and atmosphere. Top notch OST (can't stress that enough), intriguing storyline and a very good implementation of the PS5 features. Highly recommend this game. Support it!!    … Expand
  33. jm89
    May 1, 2021
    9
    Fun gameplay and a visualy impressive. But lack of saves and difficulty really make this hard to recommend for casuals.
  34. WewLad55
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Great game. The rogue-lite aspects kind of fall short, but the narrative and the gameplay (both combat and gunplay) are just something else. Absolutely amazing.
  35. Antomius
    Nov 23, 2021
    10
    Unsurpassed roukelike, if you like the genre and have an unsurpassed feeling with new challenges, with a new generation graphics and visual section, this game will leave you with an amazing satisfaction. 10/10
  36. Angelox
    May 1, 2021
    10
    Excelente juego, buenas mecánicas , muy buen gameplay, gráficos de nueva generación luce increíble, un nivel de dificultad alto para los gamers hardcore.
  37. Azizzoh
    May 2, 2021
    10
    This game fun and really it’s beautiful game Give it try and play for 30 minute
  38. Sandeegaming
    May 2, 2021
    10
    This game is challenging and beautiful I am having a blast playing this game haven’t had such an amazing gameplay experience in years.
  39. Iliridas
    May 2, 2021
    9
    This game is pretty creative and its a total fresh air when it comes to ps5 games. Its action and roguestyle at its finest. Besides, looks awesome and it stay on 60fps even when the bullet hell is on. It has some flaws but nothing that can"t be fixed with a little patch here and there. Nice game indeed
  40. DanielGorskikh
    Sep 15, 2021
    0
    По сле покупки этой игры за 5 499 руб. Складывается ощущения что меня кинули на деньги. Игра не совсем отстой но за 1000 - 1500 руб. максимум. Как всегда Sony наживается на своих игроках. Все больше мыслей приобрести Xbox и пройти их эксклюзивы которые доступны по обратной совместимости с самого первого Xbox.По сле покупки этой игры за 5 499 руб. Складывается ощущения что меня кинули на деньги. Игра не совсем отстой но за 1000 - 1500 руб. максимум. Как всегда Sony наживается на своих игроках. Все больше мыслей приобрести Xbox и пройти их эксклюзивы которые доступны по обратной совместимости с самого первого Xbox.
  41. OldAndCynical
    May 1, 2021
    5
    The movie clips sure are fine. But the game itself is repetitive, boring and very plain. And the level design lacks imagination too. Wait for a sale, for this is not worth more than a tenner at the most.
    As a Finn, it is painful to see this sort of game from a Finnish Housemarque, who used to make really brill games. That they wasted so much time, talent and effort on something this low    The movie clips sure are fine. But the game itself is repetitive, boring and very plain. And the level design lacks imagination too. Wait for a sale, for this is not worth more than a tenner at the most.
    As a Finn, it is painful to see this sort of game from a Finnish Housemarque, who used to make really brill games. That they wasted so much time, talent and effort on something this low quality... for shame, guys and gals.    … Expand
  42. Raios-Rogue
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Fantastic Smooth Gunplay
    Punishing Difficulty
    Stunning environments Incredible sound design 3D Audio insane immersion Amazing use of Dualsense features Variety of well designed enemies Variety Of Weapons A brilliant game. this is my first roguelike game I have ever played and yes, it is super hard . All souls games seemed to be very hard your first time playing until you learn the    Fantastic Smooth Gunplay
    Punishing Difficulty
    Stunning environments
    Incredible sound design 3D Audio insane immersion
    Amazing use of Dualsense features
    Variety of well designed enemies
    Variety Of Weapons
    A brilliant game. this is my first roguelike game I have ever played and yes, it is super hard . All souls games seemed to be very hard your first time playing until you learn the mechanics and master them practice makes you perfect definitely so I played and beated all soulsborne and Souls-like games Sekiro Nioh Bloodborne Dark Souls Ashen Code vein with a big smile on my face i even platinumed bloodborne and intend to platinum the others.Atmosphere, sound and graphics are just amazing, gameplay is so addictive. I love this game it's an unique thrilling experience a masterpiece that's not for everyone especially it's not for give me multiple save checkpoints and my easy mode crying babies. Housemarque took the rogue-like bullet-hell formula with a high skill level ceiling and punishing difficulty and applied it to a AAA experience in a way that creates something exceptionally unique. Returnal is an engaging experience in narrative, gunplay, and player discovery, consistently surprising you on every level. Utilizing the PS5 technology in a way that most other developers are barely tapping into, Returnal feels like one of the first truly next-gen experiences, letting Housemarque set the stage for the new console. And like Housemarque games before it, it’s the kind of game that will withstand the test of time, begging for additional cycles well into the future    … Expand
  43. lcantadori
    May 1, 2021
    10
    very challenging and addicting; lots of arcade feelings. You need to master the combat to advance and that’s a great thing. Take your time and enjoy the awesome gameplay.
  44. Bally50
    May 2, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What a game, I have never play somthing that makes me sweat and stress like this game. It’s phenomenal and such a fresh surprise in a genre I have never played before. I can’t stop thinking about run a and I think I’m slightly addicted.… Expand
  45. Mog_3825
    Sep 23, 2021
    10
    Best game I've ever played. Soooooooooo much fun! This game is worth every penny
  46. Kendyrush
    May 1, 2021
    10
    game is amazing a great rouglike with a difficult challenge too bad people are trying to review bomb it
  47. ASF92
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Gráfico foda, gráfico de nova geração. Até agora é o ÚNICO game com gráfico de nova geração. História a gameplay boas, nível de desafio interessante. Forte candidato ao GOTY caso não saia nada melhor por parte da Sony, pq do Xbox não vem mais nada que preste KKK
  48. Thiagod21
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Though the ending doesn’t fully deliver on the hours of build-up, it’s still a worthwhile tale to explore. The combination of roguelike design with third-person bullet-hell gameplay mechanics is a true treat, keeping players on their toes and continuously challenging them to get better. Returnal can get repetitive, particularly in the second half due to the repetition of layouts and longThough the ending doesn’t fully deliver on the hours of build-up, it’s still a worthwhile tale to explore. The combination of roguelike design with third-person bullet-hell gameplay mechanics is a true treat, keeping players on their toes and continuously challenging them to get better. Returnal can get repetitive, particularly in the second half due to the repetition of layouts and long bouts between the biomes. Still, the addictive, fast-paced nature of the gameplay helps keep players engaged. Holding it all together is a beautiful presentation filled with next-gen flair and spectacular audio design. Housemarque has done a wonderful job with Returnal and it’s well worth living, dying and repeating to get to the final credits… Expand
  49. Ya_Man_Balagan
    May 3, 2021
    9
    Very unique game , fast and frantic combat . The world is very well crafted ,tons of upgrades and decisions to make.
    The 4th boss is one of the best bosses ever .Sound is perfect and the use if the dyalsense add ti the imersion. Sadly there is few crashes and sound bugs abd ruined my playthrough more than once.
    Anyway good JOB housemarque!!!
  50. UsedSalmon
    Sep 25, 2022
    4
    I’ll start with the positives. Returnal has great graphics and makes terrific use of the PS5’s DualSense controller. The environments are very detailed and offer an engaging sense of atmosphere.

    However, the game is simply too much of a slog to be worth recommending to most gamers. Difficulty in games is always subjective, but I found Returnal hard to the point of feeling unfair. For    I’ll start with the positives. Returnal has great graphics and makes terrific use of the PS5’s DualSense controller. The environments are very detailed and offer an engaging sense of atmosphere.

    However, the game is simply too much of a slog to be worth recommending to most gamers.

    Difficulty in games is always subjective, but I found Returnal hard to the point of feeling unfair. For example, you’ll frequently find that the game’s third-person perspective allows enemies to sneak up behind and bite you in the butt when you can’t see them.

    This, combined with a very minimal sense of progress compared to other roguelites, results in a game most players just aren’t willing to put up with. Don’t believe me? Just look at the achievement stats, which show that only 22.8% of players even make it to the beginning of the fourth biome.

    Looking for a great roguelite experience? Try Dead Cells or Hades instead.    … Expand
  51. Fahad_1711
    May 3, 2021
    10
    10/10 game,
    Amazing gameplay, great combat
    Great graphics,
    Immersive story,
    Thanks
  52. Warferno
    May 7, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Returnal draws you in with its Gorgeous atmosphere, mysterious world, and fluid gameplay. Soon afterwards you are slashed down and realize how harrowing of a journey that this will be. A journey about death return and repeat until you finally prevail. After first entering its world and hearing the pain in the main characters voice (Selene), I knew that I Needed to escape. The story which is slowly and mysteriously handed to you drives you forward. The gameplay is a mix between roguelike, metroidvania, bullet hell, and third person shooter. If any of these entice you and you are willing to face a real challenge then you will thoroughly enjoy Returnal. This is the first game that really utilizes the dual sense controllers haptics and reactive triggers thoroughly as well as the playstation 5’s tempest audio. Needles to say do not step in for an easy relaxing experience, and be prepared to sit down for many hours as runs are not saved. If you have the time and will to push forward than this is an extremely rewarding and atmospheric game. Only thing holding me back from giving a perfect 10/10 is in my experience I completed the game in 14 hours. Most will take upward of 20-30 however even with this I would expect more biomes (of which there are 6) and more grand boss fights( which there are 5). All pieces of this game are well crafted extremely polished and well worth your time. Lastly to note I experienced one game breaking bug while playing which locked the doors around me preventing further progression of my run.… Expand
  53. Althur
    May 1, 2021
    10
    Simplemente una obra maestra. Me ha sorprendido gratamente buen exclusivo para empezar la next gen buen ritmo gran banda sonora y variedad de monstruos. Sin duda 100% recomendado
  54. Aceofcase
    May 1, 2021
    10
    Worth it! It’s hard but satisfying. The game mechanics feel intuitive, and the atmosphere is immersive with creative story telling.
  55. Bigbadjohn
    May 1, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great graphic, great gameplay, great atmosphere, best nex gen video game, i like it… Expand
  56. DaddyDoor
    May 2, 2021
    9
    Super fun game. Best use of the dualsense yet and it’s challenging yet addicting some minor fixes need to be made and additions like save points in between a run so you can actually go to sleep but overall fantastic game.
  57. BeyondTheGames
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Anti-Sony people it's on fire for this game! It's incredible to read so many negative comments where you note that they didn't even touch the game with the absurd things they wrote. Personally I'm more a Nintendo fan but I must recognize that Playstation and Housemarque have done a great job. I consider Returnal a spiritual successor of one of my favorite games of all time, Metroid Prime.Anti-Sony people it's on fire for this game! It's incredible to read so many negative comments where you note that they didn't even touch the game with the absurd things they wrote. Personally I'm more a Nintendo fan but I must recognize that Playstation and Housemarque have done a great job. I consider Returnal a spiritual successor of one of my favorite games of all time, Metroid Prime. And the way the gameplay has been implemented is really addictive. Possibly this game will become a classic for lovers of the genre, for me it's already an indispensable… Expand
  58. Killerthief1
    May 2, 2021
    10
    The game is just so great and it feels like a movie , haven't played anything like this before and my space stories and sci fi movies also won't come close to what i have experienced. But thanks to housemarque and playstation to provide me with such a beautiful game
  59. ken1989
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Returnal は啓示です！ Dualsenseと3Dオーディオの使用は印象的です。 中毒性のある力学と没入型の物語
  60. Pimkoo87
    May 2, 2021
    10
    This is my first roguelike game and it is amazing hard game , Play- Die-Play-Die again and again .. I love it
  61. Midgard84
    May 2, 2021
    9
    ROUGELIKE, difícil y frenético, gran ambientación y muy buenos gráficos. No apto para gente sin paciencia, y que no sabe jugar, luego vienen los lloros y ponen malas notas, al igual que la gente que envidia el éxito de los grandes juegos como este.
  62. amir_alaei
    May 2, 2021
    10
    This game challenges you and offers a very good experience.
    When I entered the game, the first thing that came to my mind was that this game is a 9th generation game.
    It was real good and thank you Housemarque.
  63. Chefssgame
    May 2, 2021
    8
    Would get a 9 but it crashed and i lost 1 1/2 hour of progress as i got to the third boss and had to do it over again. Dont charge 70$ for a game that crashes. Other than that and some balancing issues, a great game.
  64. Sirparzival23
    May 2, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Amazing game! 4k 60 fps great visuals tempest 3d audio is game changing! Haptics on the controller are truly next gen! Amazing crisp gameplay that has me coming back for more and more! Definitely worth the pricetag and id pay it again! Game is hard but is meant to be! Hoping we get a dlc or more content down the road! Story is another great bonus! Screen sharing with friends is an amazing experience i cant even describe! First time playing a game of this style and im in love!… Expand
  65. Segway14
    May 2, 2021
    9
    Game is awesome, gameplay is smooth, bosses are cool. Finished it about 2 hours ago. About 18 hours to finish. Challenging as well. Still playing, saw a cutscene even after the credits rolled. Game is worth it only thing is the price tag that will likely be a decider for most people.
  66. Dufrense
    May 2, 2021
    8
    I really think this game is top notch. Amazing graphics and PS5 control/audio integration. Entertaining combat and environment. Well done developers! But it is (for me atleast) very hard. Its a true challenge! Downside to this is that I will probably never finish this game. Its simply too hard
  67. Brbone
    May 2, 2021
    5
    I've been playing this game for a few hours and I'm really enjoying it so far! The combat is fast, frenetic and exciting and the gameplay loop really rewarding. Just needs a save feature so you can quit in the middle of a run.
  68. DanielFormiga
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Jogo intrigante e desafiador... Upgrade de armas, armaduras, etc... Excelente.. Som, gráfico, fluidez dos efeitos... Magnífico....
  69. BigPuppyShoes
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Great and addictive game once you figure out what you doing. Also a lot of verity of builds you can make
  70. Hoehum
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Great game. Midgame twist is still cooking my noodle. Just add a save option to return to the current cycle and it’ll be all gooood.
  71. alextended
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Mini Review Recomendado para:

    Mecánicas adictivas La evolución del Roguelike Fans de la saga Alien atmósfera de 10 Historia interesante Banda sonora excepcional eh inmersiva Buen uso del dual sense y audio 3D Avanzas si eres hábil Buena curva de aprendizaje los mundos cambian cada que mueres y te obliga a aprender patrones de enemigos * Muy pesado para jugadores casuales *No se lo    Mini Review Recomendado para:

    Mecánicas adictivas La evolución del Roguelike
    Fans de la saga Alien atmósfera de 10
    Historia interesante
    Banda sonora excepcional eh inmersiva
    Buen uso del dual sense y audio 3D
    Avanzas si eres hábil Buena curva de aprendizaje los mundos cambian cada que mueres y te obliga a aprender patrones de enemigos

    * Muy pesado para jugadores casuales

    *No se lo recomendaría a impacientes

    *El juego no guarda pero tiene traslados rápidos Ya que su sistema de mundo funciona como un Metroidvania *Muy caro para 70 dólares.

    Nueva IP con mucho potencial    … Expand
  72. NightTrap
    May 2, 2021
    10
    Was very hesitant to drop 70 on this style of game but this turned out fun as hell! Anyone complaining about no saving isn't realizing how it would actually take away from the game instead of help it. I think some sort of demo would help keep review droppers from playing this amazing game in the first place. Will you die, sure. Will you lose everything when you die, yeah. Even with all ofWas very hesitant to drop 70 on this style of game but this turned out fun as hell! Anyone complaining about no saving isn't realizing how it would actually take away from the game instead of help it. I think some sort of demo would help keep review droppers from playing this amazing game in the first place. Will you die, sure. Will you lose everything when you die, yeah. Even with all of the loss the game keeps things fresh each new cycle. The game play is enough to keep coming back again and again. The controls are spot on. Haptic and triggers are proof we jumped into a new world of gaming. Particle effects to die for. This basically should be in all hard-core gamers libraries.… Expand
  73. breakXedge
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Un juego brillante y brutal, con una historia interesante y un gameplay que engancha desde el primer minuto. Es desafiante y te hacer ser cada vez más bueno, y una vez consigues entender los movimientos de los enemigos y jefes, se hace mucho más manejable.

    Brilliant and brutal nice and interesting plot and gameplay that kick in since minute 1. It's challenging and makes you improve in    Un juego brillante y brutal, con una historia interesante y un gameplay que engancha desde el primer minuto. Es desafiante y te hacer ser cada vez más bueno, y una vez consigues entender los movimientos de los enemigos y jefes, se hace mucho más manejable.

    Brilliant and brutal nice and interesting plot and gameplay that kick in since minute 1. It's challenging and makes you improve in every run. When you start to understand how enemies work it becomes easier.    … Expand
  74. Frenchxkitana
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Best rouge like of the yearvgvggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggghhhjjhfghytghhgggggghhhghhhhhhhhh
  75. Naw828
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Amazing Gale. One of its kind. I feel like this is the beginning of a new type as was it for demon souls (like souls genre). Well done Housemarque!
  76. Colomera85
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Un juego muy bueno, totalmente recomendado para los amantes de grandes desafíos.
    Es muy frenético y afictivo
  77. SazanLar27
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Отличная графика, интересный сюжет, жуткая атмосфера и великолепная реализация возможностей dual sense!
  78. HerculeanHarold
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Absolutely love this game! Love the whole aesthetic of the game. Love how they've utilised the dual sense for it aswell.
  79. NemethDius
    May 3, 2021
    10
    Hatalmas játék!Óriási hangulat!Lenyűgöző játékmenet!Igazságos nehézség!Lebilincselő hangok!
  80. Golum18
    May 7, 2021
    0
    Самый отстойный рогалик за последнее время. Графика - топ, спору нет. Стрелять, в принципе, понравилось, но геймплей на уровне дна. Это не стоит 5500 рублей. Это стоит 200 рублей по скидке максимум
  81. loganze
    May 17, 2021
    1
    Una jugabilidad mediocre en un mundo vacio que te obliga a repetir sin punto de guardado
  82. Marvin87
    May 25, 2021
    0
    Jeu complètement bidon, trop de bug, graphisme à la ramasse. Gameplay simpliste. A éviter à tout pris
  83. Random124
    Jul 13, 2022
    0
    This game gets 2 awards :

    1. The most unattractive and uninteresting main character in a video game ever
    2. The worst exclusive out of all the playstation games.

    The gameplay is ok at least but the rest is just trash. Don't buy this indie crap. Got it for free through ps extra and i feel like i got ripped off.
  84. xazac
    Aug 10, 2021
    0
    This is THE WORST game I ever played to.

    It has a really non-sense game mechanic that when you die you will not return: you will reborn. This means you loose all your collectibles, all your arms, all your hours of play. Save your money AND DON’T BUY THIS SH*T.
  85. Lit1onion
    Aug 14, 2021
    3
    This game is awful! Definitely not next gen material.
    Don't get me wrong, it runs well but wow, the mind numbing repetitiveness and like the dying and starting in the same spot with the same gun and walking through the same door for a procedurally same looking level is going to keep a mentally functioning gamer hooked.
    It is atrociously mind numbing and I wouldn't recommend this to anyone.    This game is awful! Definitely not next gen material.
    Don't get me wrong, it runs well but wow, the mind numbing repetitiveness and like the dying and starting in the same spot with the same gun and walking through the same door for a procedurally same looking level is going to keep a mentally functioning gamer hooked.
    It is atrociously mind numbing and I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. Well maybe if you're a fan of destiny, you can find some solsti e in this. Other than that, don't waste your time or money.    … Expand
  86. Lamecalva
    Sep 14, 2021
    0
    This game sucks,.,.................. Mm...... Mm............ .......... Return; if 0
  87. Koernerbrot
    Sep 28, 2021
    1
    It would be a great game if they included a "save" feature. I don't want to have multiple saves that I can load after I die to make the game easier, I just want to be able to turn off my console and return to that exact point in the game later. With all Souls games this is the case, and it doesn't ruin the fail&learn gameplay experience at all. Without this feature, it's a no-go for me.It would be a great game if they included a "save" feature. I don't want to have multiple saves that I can load after I die to make the game easier, I just want to be able to turn off my console and return to that exact point in the game later. With all Souls games this is the case, and it doesn't ruin the fail&learn gameplay experience at all. Without this feature, it's a no-go for me. Not everyone has so little personal life and commitments that they can always play for several hours at a time.… Expand
  88. Jolli
    Dec 29, 2021
    0
    Начал новый цикл, играл три часа и слился на втором боссе, и всё с начала
  89. wm33
    Jan 15, 2022
    0
    This is quite possibly, the dumbest game I have ever played. To punish the player for dying, and losing all your stats, weapons, items, etc. and then they have the audacity to make you replay the entire level before getting to the bosses again. HUGE WASTE OF TIME. I don't want to be forced to play entire levels over again, just for not beating a challenging boss. HORRIBLE GAME.
  90. BigDad02
    Mar 22, 2022
    10
    Uma experiência original, com uma atmosfera muito imersiva e uma gameplay incrível. É tecnicamente perfeito no que se propoe a ser.
  91. Criticarte
    May 1, 2021
    2
    Returnal is dull and repetitive. The story is trash and so is the voice acting. The missions are boring and repetitive.
  92. Schtoepper
    May 1, 2021
    0
    I was really super excited about this game. It really rocks audio/visually. As a big fan of the Alien movie series this game is the state of the art video game pendant. I was now spending 10h in this game. Died 48 times. Could not make it to the second biome. I play computer games since 35 years but never had such a frustrating experinece. The promises of the devs do not hold. The shiningI was really super excited about this game. It really rocks audio/visually. As a big fan of the Alien movie series this game is the state of the art video game pendant. I was now spending 10h in this game. Died 48 times. Could not make it to the second biome. I play computer games since 35 years but never had such a frustrating experinece. The promises of the devs do not hold. The shining presentation is now ripped despite the fact of procedural level creation. There is too much random score of grinding items you need to go through successfully. This in combination with the no save function is devastating for spending another hour with this useless peace of "entertainment". I feel so sorry since this could have been my all time favorite game. But in this stage NO. Dear developers: there are people who would love your game, but have maybe a family and a 60h job a week. I will put the Blueray into the trash NOW.… Expand
  93. Casber101
    May 1, 2021
    2
    Tricked by Sony PR. It’s too hard for none roguelike fans, and super frustrating. Apart from that this game shows the graphics and tech fidelity of the PS5.
  94. BaronBaldric
    May 1, 2021
    3
    The character design is horrendous, it does not justify such a high price for so little content. No save, the gameplay is so repetitive. All you do in this game is shoot and run.
  95. Zhisuy
    May 2, 2021
    0
    Demasiada oscuridad en sus escenarios, poca creatividad artistica. La jugabilidad es cali nula por tanta oscuridad que no se puede detallar los escenarios.
  96. sergioodoardi
    May 6, 2021
    0
    Absolutely trash. Broken AF. 86 from the media? are they blind? wtf is going on. Graphics are trash, sound is trash and if we see that is broken AF, this games doesn't worth 80 Euros. Not recommended.
  97. QurakPlay
    May 2, 2021
    1
    Za wysoka cena jak za tą pozycję.
    Choć gra całkiem niezła.
    Ale nie za tą cenę.
  98. joaoramos
    May 2, 2021
    0
    Returnal made to the top 5 games I've played. It's a freaking amazing experience from the beginning to the very end. I just had a bug in a run that didn't trigger any trophies, so I lost 7 trophies just in one Run. Unfortunately, was in the same run where I beat the game.

    Fix the trophies system, please.
  99. ANTIMETACRITIC
    Feb 20, 2022
    0
    Otra pedazo de mierda de Sony a la que la prensa comprada pone por las nubes. No hay quien la aguante, no es rejugable, no se ve un carajo, no vale para nada ochenta napos. Una auténtica estafa.
  100. Hallanolan
    May 1, 2021
    2
    Returnal is the worst rogue like I have ever played. It lacks variety between runs, it lacks progression overall, there is no saving and the combat is repetitive. Worst of all its 80 euros. Avoid at all costs!
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Awards & Rankings

16
#16 Best PlayStation 5 Game of 2021
1
#1 Most Discussed PlayStation 5 Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 115 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 107 out of 115
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 115
  3. Negative: 0 out of 115
  1. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Feb 15, 2022
    100
    A perfect example of the performance of the PS5 and all its functions. Great gameplay and the music catches and won't let go until you get to the bottom of it all. But in the end, the final may surprise you unpleasantly.
  2. CD-Action
    Dec 7, 2021
    85
    An unobvious reinforcement of PlayStation’s range of exclusives. You can love Returnal, you can hate it, the feelings can even be simultaneous. Even though it’s tough love, there’s something about this game that makes you scream into a pillow and then try again. And again. And again. [07/2021, p.44]
  3. Game World Navigator Magazine
    Sep 3, 2021
    83
    Returnal has everything you’d expect from an exclusive that comes early in a console’s life-cycle. It shows off everything PS5 has to offer, while delivering a solid roguelike experience. [Issue#254, p.54]
See all critic reviews »