What you’ll build / learn
In this tutorial, we will explore the captivating world of Returnal, a game that has garnered praise for its unique blend of roguelike mechanics and immersive storytelling. You will learn about the core gameplay elements, the narrative structure, and the various challenges that make this game a standout title on the PlayStation 5. By the end of this guide, you will have a deeper understanding of what makes Returnal an exceptional gaming experience.
We will also discuss strategies for overcoming the game’s challenges, the significance of its procedural generation, and how the atmosphere contributes to the overall experience. This tutorial aims to provide both new players and seasoned gamers with insights that enhance their appreciation of Returnal.
Why it matters
Returnal is significant not only for its gameplay but also for its contribution to the evolution of video games as a medium for storytelling. The game pushes the boundaries of traditional roguelikes by integrating a rich narrative with challenging gameplay. This combination offers players a unique experience that encourages them to engage deeply with the game world.
The game’s design philosophy promotes resilience and learning, as players must adapt to the ever-changing environments and enemy behaviours. This aspect of gameplay fosters a sense of achievement that resonates with players, making each victory feel earned and rewarding.
Moreover, Returnal’s success has implications for the gaming industry, as it showcases the potential for innovative mechanics and storytelling in video games. Its popularity may inspire developers to explore similar approaches, leading to a new wave of games that prioritise both challenge and narrative depth.
Prerequisites
To fully enjoy Returnal, you will need a PlayStation 5 console, as the game is exclusive to this platform. Ensure your console is updated to the latest firmware to avoid any compatibility issues. A good quality television or monitor will enhance your visual experience, as the game features stunning graphics and intricate details.
Familiarity with the roguelike genre can be beneficial, as Returnal incorporates many elements typical of this style, such as permadeath and procedural generation. However, even players new to the genre can find enjoyment in the game, as it provides an engaging learning curve.
Lastly, a willingness to embrace challenge is essential. Returnal is known for its difficulty, and players should be prepared to face setbacks as they navigate the game’s world. Embracing this challenge is part of what makes the game rewarding and enjoyable.
Step-by-step
-
Start by launching Returnal on your PlayStation 5 and select your save file. If you are new to the game, you will begin with the first biome, the Overgrown Ruins.
-
Familiarise yourself with the controls. Spend some time in the tutorial area to understand the basic mechanics, such as movement, shooting, and dodging.
-
Explore your surroundings carefully. The game rewards exploration, so take the time to look for hidden items and upgrades that can enhance your abilities.
-
Engage with enemies strategically. Learn their attack patterns and find the best ways to defeat them without taking damage.
-
Collect resources and items. As you progress, gather materials that can be used to upgrade your weapons and abilities.
-
Utilise the game’s procedural generation to your advantage. Each run will present different layouts and enemy placements, so adapt your strategy accordingly.
-
Take breaks if you find yourself frustrated. Returnal can be challenging, and stepping away for a moment can help you return with a fresh perspective.
-
Keep track of your progress. Each run provides valuable experience, so reflect on what strategies worked and what didn’t to improve in future attempts.
-
As you advance through the biomes, pay attention to the story elements revealed through environmental storytelling and collectibles.
-
Consider joining online communities to share experiences and strategies with other players. This can enhance your understanding of the game and provide new insights.
-
Finally, enjoy the journey. Returnal is as much about the experience as it is about completing the game, so take the time to appreciate the world and its narrative.
Best practices & security
When playing Returnal, it’s essential to adopt best practices that enhance your gaming experience. Firstly, ensure your console is in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating during extended play sessions. This is crucial for maintaining performance and prolonging the life of your hardware.
Regularly check for game updates and install them promptly. Developers often release patches that fix bugs and improve gameplay, ensuring you have the best experience possible. Additionally, consider backing up your save data to the cloud or an external drive to prevent loss of progress.
Engaging with the community can also be beneficial. Participate in forums or social media groups to share tips and learn from others. However, be cautious of spoilers, as the narrative is a significant aspect of the game, and discovering it on your own can enhance your enjoyment.
Common pitfalls & troubleshooting
One common pitfall in Returnal is underestimating the difficulty of the game. New players may find themselves overwhelmed by the fast-paced combat and challenging enemies. It’s important to approach the game with patience and a willingness to learn from failures.
Another issue players may encounter is getting stuck in a particular biome. If you find yourself struggling, consider taking a break and returning later with a fresh mindset. Sometimes stepping away from the game can provide clarity and new strategies.
Additionally, ensure your console is updated and that you have a stable internet connection for online features. If you experience technical issues, consult the PlayStation support page for troubleshooting tips or community forums for advice.
Alternatives & trade-offs
| Game | Genre | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Hades | Roguelike | PC, PS4, PS5, Switch |
| Dead Cells | Action-platformer | PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox |
| Return of the Obra Dinn | Puzzle | PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox |
| Ghost of Tsushima | Action-adventure | PS4, PS5 |
While Returnal is a unique experience, there are several alternatives worth considering. Hades and Dead Cells are both roguelikes that offer engaging gameplay and replayability, though they differ in style and narrative depth. Hades provides a rich story and character interactions, while Dead Cells focuses more on fast-paced action and exploration.
For players interested in narrative-driven games, Return of the Obra Dinn presents a different type of challenge, focusing on puzzle-solving rather than combat. Ghost of Tsushima, while not a roguelike, offers an expansive world and captivating story that may appeal to those who enjoy immersive gameplay.
What the community says
The gaming community has largely praised Returnal for its innovative approach to the roguelike genre. Players appreciate the blend of challenging gameplay and deep narrative, often sharing their experiences and strategies online. Many highlight the game’s atmosphere and art style, noting how it enhances the overall experience.
Discussions often revolve around the game’s difficulty, with some players expressing frustration while others celebrate the challenge as a core part of the experience. This divide has sparked conversations about game design and player expectations in modern gaming.
Overall, Returnal has fostered a passionate community that engages with the game on multiple levels, from gameplay strategies to narrative analysis, making it a topic of ongoing discussion among gamers.
FAQ
Q: Is Returnal suitable for beginners?A: While Returnal is challenging, it can be suitable for beginners who are willing to learn and adapt. The game offers a learning curve that encourages players to improve their skills over time. Taking breaks and approaching the game with patience can enhance the experience.
Q: How long does it take to complete Returnal?A: The time it takes to complete Returnal varies greatly depending on the player’s skill level and play style. On average, players can expect to spend around 20-30 hours to finish the main story, but replaying to master the game can extend this significantly.
Q: Are there any multiplayer features in Returnal?A: Returnal is primarily a single-player experience, focusing on the individual’s journey. However, players can share their experiences and strategies online, contributing to a community that enhances the game’s enjoyment.
Q: What makes Returnal different from other roguelikes?A: Returnal distinguishes itself with its narrative depth and atmospheric design. While many roguelikes focus solely on gameplay mechanics, Returnal integrates a compelling story that unfolds as players progress, making each run feel meaningful.
Q: Can I change the difficulty settings in Returnal?A: Returnal does not offer traditional difficulty settings. Instead, players are encouraged to adapt to the game’s challenges. This design choice aims to create a consistent experience that rewards perseverance and skill development.
Q: Is there a way to save progress in Returnal?A: Returnal features an auto-save system that saves progress at the end of each biome. Players can also pause the game at any time, but it is important to note that the game does not allow for manual save points during runs.
Further reading
For those interested in exploring more about Returnal and its development, consider checking out articles and interviews with the developers at Housemarque. Additionally, reviews from various gaming publications can provide further insights into the game’s mechanics and narrative structure.
Engaging with community forums and social media discussions can also enhance your understanding of the game, offering diverse perspectives and strategies from fellow players.
Source
For more information and discussions about Returnal, visit the Reddit post where players share their experiences: Returnal is awesome.