Key Takeaways
Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark
- Saros introduces a new shield system that shifts focus from dodging to strategic shield use, requiring players to quickly identify and react to different types of incoming attacks.
- The game retains the unpredictable nature of Returnal, with areas changing after death and eclipses midway through levels altering the environment, toughening enemies, and boosting rewards.
- Saros features a diverse team of global characters, adding an interesting dynamic to gameplay.
- Despite incorporating elements designed for a broader audience, Saros still delivers a challenging experience that demands patience, reflexes, and skill, similar to Returnal.
Recommended products
This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from purchases made through these links.
In 2026, Housemarque, the Finnish studio known for the acclaimed PlayStation 5 exclusive Returnal, will release its new game, Saros. While some early previews suggested a more accessible experience than Returnal, Saros equips players with the tools to understand and overcome its intense challenges. Returnal’s initial reception sparked debate in 2021. At the time, many players were resistant to the difficulty common in Soulslike games. While similar games have since gained acceptance, Returnal differed as a third-person shooter that demanded sharp reflexes and incorporated a roguelite system, creating unpredictable scenarios with each death. This proved overwhelming for some players who expected a more mainstream experience. As Henepola Gunaratana said, “There’s no joy without some sorrow, and no sorrow without some joy,” capturing the essence of games like Returnal.
Although Saros incorporates features designed to appeal to a broader audience, such as varying difficulty levels, autosaves, and persistent experience points, Housemarque has also introduced new mechanics that significantly alter gameplay. One major addition is a shield system that absorbs blue projectiles to recharge a special attack gauge. This shifts the focus from simple dodging to strategic shield use; players must quickly identify and react to the different types of incoming attacks, since only blue projectiles are absorbed. Charging into specific projectile types with the shield further enhances the gameplay. Enemies, especially bosses, frequently launch blue projectiles, making anticipation crucial for avoiding follow-up yellow bursts. This design encourages a more aggressive play style, rewarding players who expose themselves strategically. Players must balance risk and resource management, utilizing primary and secondary fire, dashes, absorption, melee attacks against shielded enemies, and special arm-based moves. It’s a departure from typical sequels, injecting fresh elements into the third-person shooter genre.
Saros Unleashed: Global Teammates & Altered Terrains Elevate Combat Challenges
Saros retains the unpredictable nature of Returnal, where areas change with each death, and players may face lengthy replays after dying near a boss. Further increasing the challenge, eclipses triggered midway through levels alter the environment, toughen enemies, and boost rewards—though often at a cost. The game embraces a high-risk dynamic, demanding strategic use of the new shield mechanic to absorb enemy fire and fundamentally change the game’s pace. In addition to its gameplay enhancements, the game features a diverse team of characters from around the globe. While not a simple rehash of Returnal, Saros delivers a challenging experience that demands patience, reflexes, and skill.
In Case You Missed It
In the ever-evolving world of PlayStation Studios, Jonathan Dubinski takes us through a journey of change with his article “All Studios Closed by PlayStation Since the Launch of PS5,” published on March 26th All Studios Closed by PlayStation Since the Launch of PS5. He meticulously documents the closure of eight studios between 2020 and 2026, offering valuable context into Sony’s restructuring within their gaming division. Meanwhile, Dubinski also brings us exciting news about Housemarque’s upcoming title Saros, set to release on PlayStation 5 in April. In his March 28th report Saros More Accessible Than Returnal to Ease Players, he reveals that this science fiction roguelike will introduce auto-saves and multiple save slots, making it more accessible than its predecessor Returnal. And just when you thought things couldn’t get any more interesting, Sophie Laurent announces a delightful crossover in our beloved world of Pokémon with her post from March 31st, “Pokémon Pokopia Gets IKEA” Pokémon Pokopia Gets IKEA. From April 1st to June 30th, the Nintendo Switch 2 welcomes an exclusive island collaboration between The Pokémon Company and IKEA, promising themed rooms, special in-store events, and even Pokémon-inspired meals at IKEA restaurants! It’s safe to say that this season has some thrilling gaming experiences in store for us all.
Have any thoughts?
Share your reaction or leave a quick response — we’d love to hear what you think!
-
0
-
0
-
0
-
0
-
0
-
0
