Finnish game developer Housemarque made a mark with its release of “Returnal” for Sony PlayStation 5 in 2021. The game tells the story of an astronaut stranded on an alien world teeming with cosmic horror-inspired adversaries. Players were captivated by its challenging yet elegantly choreographed combat.
Staying true to its signature style, Housemarque’s latest offering, “Saros,” retains familiar elements while incorporating features reminiscent of top games in similar genres. This evolution makes “Saros” more accessible without losing its heart-pounding intensity.
Not for the faint-hearted, “Saros” remains true to Housemarque’s legacy, pleasing fans of the studio’s previous works. The game’s narrative may not always follow a linear plot, but it immerses players in a hauntingly atmospheric world that leaves them eager for more.
“Saros” plunges players right into the action, casting them as Arjun, a well-equipped operative working for the Soltari corporation on an investigative mission to the alien planet Carcosa. Drawing from roguelike and bullet hell genres, the game challenges players to start afresh with each run, battling enemies and upgrading their arsenal to progress.
Arjun faces death repeatedly, only to be revived with newfound insights into the dangers ahead. The game world’s layout constantly shifts, offering a fresh experience in each playthrough. Collecting lucenite enhances Arjun’s abilities, enabling him to confront increasingly formidable foes.
In a nod to classic top-down shooters, “Saros” introduces a 3D twist to the bullet hell concept, which Housemarque dubs “bullet ballet.” Players engage in intense combat against bio-mechanical creatures and otherworldly adversaries, dodging intricate bullet patterns while unleashing powerful weapons.
The Soltari Shield becomes Arjun’s primary defense against enemy fire, absorbing blue projectiles to charge his devastating power weapon. Balancing risk and reward, players must strategically manage shield usage while navigating a barrage of hostile attacks.
To overcome impassable obstacles, players can trigger an eclipse by interacting with a mysterious entity on Carcosa, altering the environment and intensifying challenges. The eclipse enhances enemy aggression, introduces new hazards, and boosts lucenite rewards, emphasizing the game’s theme of peril versus reward.
Despite its engrossing gameplay, “Saros” prioritizes action and exploration over narrative development. Characters like Arjun’s teammates add depth to the story, albeit briefly, as players venture deeper into Carcosa’s enigmatic depths.
While the storyline may lack explicit details, “Saros” thrives on its enigmatic allure, evoking a sense of isolation and dread as players traverse eerie landscapes inspired by Lovecraftian and gothic horror themes. Housemarque’s innovative blend of genres in “Returnal” and “Saros” offers a unique gaming experience that stands out among contemporary titles.
Launching on April 30 for Sony PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro, “Saros” promises an adrenaline-fueled journey through a captivating and treacherous alien world.