Saros: Housemarque‘s Returnal Evolution Promises a Visceral Sci-Fi experience
Housemarque and Sony’s upcoming sci-fantasy shooter, Saros, finally revealed its gameplay at the latest PlayStation State of Play. If you were captivated by the intense, cyclical action of Returnal, prepare to be thrilled. Saros builds upon that foundation, delivering a similar adrenaline rush with a new protagonist, a dynamic world, and innovative combat mechanics.
What We Know About Saros So Far
The trailer showcased a relentless barrage of action, pitting players against a diverse array of enemies. Expect robotic foes, skull-themed horrors, and creatures boasting an unsettling number of limbs – even beings capable of intimidating the god of war, Kratos. Sony clearly isn’t shying away from playful nods to its other franchises.
Like Returnal, Saros leans heavily into the “bullet hell” genre.Enemies unleash dazzling, complex patterns of energy projectiles. Thankfully, a well-timed horizontal dash offers a crucial escape, provided you manage its cooldown effectively.
A New Story and protagonist
You’ll step into the boots of arjun Devraj, voiced by Rajul Kohli, a Soltari enforcer investigating the lost colony of Carcosa.An encroaching eclipse causes the landscape to constantly shift, adding another layer of challenge to yoru mission. While Devraj hasn’t immediately grabbed attention with his personality, his stylish coat certainly makes an impression. Expect to uncover the colony’s fate through interactions with holographic remnants of its former inhabitants.
Key Differences: How Saros Evolves the Formula
Saros isn’t simply a rehash of Returnal. Several key features distinguish it:
* Energy Shield: This innovative mechanic absorbs incoming attacks and converts them into power for your most devastating weapons. It’s also invaluable for navigating environmental hazards like laser grids.
* Second Chance Revive: Devraj isn’t going down without a fight. A dramatic fist slam to the ground allows for a resurrection, showcasing a defiant attitude towards overwhelming odds.
* Permanent Progression: Housemarque emphasizes a more forgiving roguelike experience. Saros features permanent resources and progression,ensuring that every death feels like a learning prospect,not a complete reset. The tagline, “Come back stronger,” encapsulates this beliefs.
What We’re Hoping For
Currently, a PC release date remains unconfirmed. However, fans are eagerly anticipating more details about the game’s bestiary. Returnal’s lore was a standout feature, and we’re hoping Saros delivers equally compelling descriptions of its bizarre and fascinating creatures. The 3D bullet hell action is exciting,but the depth of the world and its inhabitants is what truly captivated players in Returnal.
Saros is shaping up to be a must-watch title for fans of challenging, visually stunning action games. It appears Housemarque is successfully building upon the strengths of Returnal while forging its own unique identity.
Disclosure: RPS co-founder Alec Meer wrote for Returnal and is the lead writer on Saros.
