I knew Saros was a Housemarque recreation the second its protagonist mentioned, “However after each dying I at all times come again stronger.” The Finnish studio behind Returnal and a number of wonderful arcade shooters is again with a brand new entry in the identical style scheduled for launch on PlayStation 5 in 2026 and I already can’t wait.
Not a lot was revealed within the cinematic teaser throughout Wednesday’s PlayStation State of Play showcase, together with any precise gameplay. However we did get a way of Saros’ world and stakes, with the primary character mentioning limitless time loops and an eclipse from which insanity, and creepy enemies, each spawn.
It appears very very similar to a religious successor to 2021’s GOTY roguelike contender Returnal however with an vital distinction. Whereas that recreation was fairly punishing run-to-run, Saros can have “everlasting assets and development.” Each time hero Arjun Devraj (performed by Rahul Kohli) respawns, he’ll have new weapons and upgrades moderately than his arsenal resetting every time.
Right here’s the outline:
Set on the planet Carcosa underneath the specter of an ominous eclipse, tackle the position of Arjun Devraj, a strong Soltari Enforcer looking for solutions on a misplaced off-world colony. SAROS options everlasting development methods, the place each dying reshapes the world whereas providing new upgrades to beat challenges. With a haunting story, deep third-person motion, and a grounded efficiency by Rahul Kohli, SAROS presents the subsequent evolution in Housemarque’s gameplay-first expertise.
Artistic director Gregory Louden referred to as it “the last word evolution of the Housemarque gameplay-first expertise” and mentioned the sport will proceed within the third-person motion shooter custom of its predecessor. There’s even a slight wink and a nod to Housemarque’s signature bullet hell orb patterns it loves killing gamers with.
When the sport does arrive someday in 2026, it should embody enhancements for PS5 Professional. Contemplating the significance of framerate to the style, that may in all probability find yourself being no small factor. Hopefully we get to see some precise gameplay later this yr. Within the meantime, you may be part of me in celebrating Housemarque’s thirtieth anniversary by giving Returnal a shot should you haven’t already.
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