Housemarque
Housemarque business and news from across the web.
Review: Sektori (Switch 2) - The New King Of Twin-Stick ShootersSektori is a new twin-stick shooter for the Nintendo Switch 2 that surpasses Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved 2 in its genre. Developed by Kimmo Lahtinen, formerly of Housemarque, the game features unique mechanics like the 'strike' move and strategic upgrade systems. Despite a slightly steep learning curve for its mechanics, Sektori offers stellar presentation with a techno soundtrack and smooth 60fps performance, making it a standout release.
Saros Squashes Trophy Bugs and Other Nasty Issues in Latest PS5 Patch, Available NowHousemarque has released a new patch for Saros on PlayStation 5, addressing various bugs and issues. The update fixes trophy unlock problems, enemies healing outside of combat areas, clipping through elevators, and the Ancient Depths not appearing. HDR output has also been adjusted to reach maximum luminance levels.
Saros is selling worse than Returnal, analyst estimates, as it competes with hits like Crimson Desert and Resident Evil…Analyst Rhys Elliott estimates that Housemarque's new roguelike, Saros, has sold over 300,000 copies in its first two weeks, generating over $22 million. This performance is considered weaker than its predecessor, Returnal, due to a crowded market of recent blockbuster releases. Elliott suggests Saros may struggle to break even against its reported budget exceeding $76 million.
Saros is off to a slower start than Returnal, with some analysts concerned Housemarque "will struggle to break even"Despite generally favorable reviews and a smoother difficulty curve than Returnal, Housemarque's new game Saros is experiencing a slower launch. Analysts note that while Saros has sold 300,000 copies and generated over $22 million, its sales pace trails behind Returnal, even with a significantly larger PlayStation 5 install base. Concerns have been raised about the game's ability to break even given its reported $76 million development budget.
Saros PS5 Sales Estimates at 300k, Selling Slower Than Returnal on a Bigger Install BaseSales estimates from Alinea Analytics suggest that Saros has sold approximately 300,000 copies on PlayStation 5 since its launch two weeks ago. Analyst Rhys Elliot notes that this sales figure may be slower than Returnal's performance, despite the PlayStation 5's significantly larger install base compared to when Returnal was released.
Saros Is Selling Slower Than ReturnalSony's exclusive game Saros has sold over 300,000 copies in its first two weeks, generating approximately $22 million. Despite the availability of more PlayStation 5 consoles compared to when Returnal launched, Saros is selling at a slower pace due to a more crowded gaming market. The article suggests that while initial sales are soft, word-of-mouth could still boost its long-term performance.
Saros May Struggle To Recoup Its Budget, Despite Great Reviews - AnalystDespite receiving excellent reviews and being a contender for Game of the Year, Housemarque's Saros may struggle to recoup its reported $76 million development budget due to slower sales compared to its predecessor, Returnal. Analyst Rhys Elliott estimates Saros sold around 300,000 copies in its first two weeks, with a significant portion of players having previously purchased Returnal. The game's performance is being closely watched as an indicator of Sony's strategy for its PlayStation 5 exclusives.
Review – Saros (PS5)Saros is an intense triple-A roguelike that builds upon the foundation of Returnal, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. The game features stunning visuals, immersive sound design, and exceptional utilization of the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller. While the narrative can occasionally slow the pace, the core gameplay loop and innovative features make it a standout exclusive.
Poll: Is Saros Better Than Returnal?A poll asks players to compare Saros, the spiritual successor to Returnal, to its predecessor. While Saros refines gameplay and streamlines progression, some players find it less mysterious and more accessible than Returnal. The article discusses Housemarque's evolution from arcade titles to intense third-person shooters with both games.
Single-Player Alternatives to Helldivers 2 (2026) | TAGThis guide recommends seven single-player games that capture the intense combat, mission structure, or cathartic violence found in Helldivers 2, without requiring multiplayer coordination. Titles like Remnant II and Deep Rock Galactic offer similar gameplay loops, while Doom Eternal and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 provide pure shooter catharsis. Returnal and Risk of Rain 2 offer run-based progression, and Metro Exodus provides a more atmospheric, deliberate experience.
Saros Doesn’t Like Being a Roguelike, So Why Is It One?Saros, the spiritual successor to Housemarque's roguelike hit Returnal, is criticized for shunning its predecessor's genre conventions in an effort to be more approachable. Despite technically featuring roguelike elements like randomized loot and levels, the game is seen as hollowed out due to stunted build variety and a lack of interlocking systems. This departure from its roguelike roots, while aiming for broader appeal, results in a discordant experience that undermines both its gameplay and narrative potential.
Poor Start for PS5 Exclusive Saros as First Sales Data EmergesSony's new PlayStation 5 exclusive, Saros, has had a slow start according to its first sales data. The game ranked 11th in North America and 17th in Europe on the PS Store charts for April, and third in the UK physical sales chart. While it is the number one new release on Amazon for PS5 games, its debut is considered weak for a high-profile release.- Säsong 9 slut – dubbla vinnare i FZ High Score!The ninth season of FZ High Score has concluded, with Minnels and RobertWarrior94 sharing first place with 70 points each, earning them exclusive t-shirts. The season featured reviews for Kiln, Aphelion, and Saros, with Saros receiving the highest average score. Season 10 of FZ High Score is now underway.
Saros Patch is Here, Brings Balancing Changes, Fixes, and New UI Color SettingsHousemarque has released a new patch for their game Saros, introducing several balancing changes and fixes. The update includes adjustments to the Power Generator perk and Powered Dash artifact, improved bullet bounce accuracy, and UI enhancements such as new color settings for the HUD. Minor performance optimizations and bug fixes are also part of this patch.
Here’s how many Acts Saros has, so you can lock in on rolling the creditsThe game Saros is structured into three Acts, with eight Biomes and a hub area called The Passage. Completing the third Act unlocks an epilogue that allows players to pursue a secret ending. This guide helps players understand the game's structure and their progress through its narrative.- Finlands humor är vårFinnish game developers often lean into stereotypes of being stoic and creating challenging games, as seen in titles like Max Payne, Trials HD, and Returnal. However, a distinct sense of dark humor and self-awareness, exemplified by Remedy Entertainment's games, also characterizes their output. This blend of difficulty, dark comedy, and sometimes absurd situations creates a unique and beloved identity for Finnish game development.
UK Charts: Tomodachi Life Beats Saros To Reclaim Number OneTomodachi Life: Living the Dream has reclaimed the number one spot on the UK physical charts, pushing Capcom's Pragmata down to tenth place. Saros, a new PS5 exclusive, also failed to reach the top, debuting in third. Other notable entries include EA SPORTS FC 26 climbing to fourth and Invincible VS entering the charts at seventh.- Saros review – Action combat excellence with a gorgeous viewSaros is a visually stunning third-person action shooter from Housemarque that excels in its combat mechanics and satisfying controls. While the plot and characters may not be the most engaging aspect, the core gameplay loop, featuring satisfying combat, roguelike elements, and enjoyable traversal, makes it a must-play for fans of the genre. The game also makes excellent use of the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller's adaptive triggers.
- Culture warriors are using AI to drag Saros into gross misinformation campaignThe PlayStation 5 exclusive game Saros is facing a misinformation campaign, with some individuals spreading false plot spoilers and engaging in "anti-woke" backlash, partly due to the game's lead actor, Rahul Kohli. Despite these efforts, Saros has achieved strong sales and positive reception, with developers Housemarque hoping the discussion can lead to more positive publicity.
Saros is Incredible, But Housemarque Has a Lot Riding On ItDespite Saros's critical acclaim and improved accessibility compared to Returnal, concerns remain about its commercial success and Housemarque's future within Sony. The article discusses the sales figures of Returnal and the financial pressures on studios, questioning if Saros's larger scope and development costs will appease executives, especially after recent layoffs and cancellations within PlayStation Studios.