Returnal
News, coverage and analysis tracking Returnal across the outlets.
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Did Marvel’s Wolverine make a good impression in the State of Play?
Readers express mixed feelings about recent gaming showcases, with "Marvel's Wolverine" drawing comparisons to "Uncharted" and "Batman: Arkham Asylum" for its perceived lack of originality. Concerns are also raised about the frequency of sequels and the potential for Xbox to offer more surprising content. Additionally, discussions touch upon Nintendo's infrequent announcements, the modern trend of extensive post-launch downloads for games like "007 First Light," and the perceived decline in innovation within triple-A titles.
New Report Shows PlayStation First-Party Game Sales Declining, But What’s The Full Story>
A report analyzing Sony's first-party game sales reveals a significant decline from FY20 to FY25, dropping from 58.4 million to 32.1 million units. While the number of releases has fluctuated, the analysis suggests the core issue is an increasing reliance on a few blockbuster franchises like God of War and Spider-Man, with fewer new titles emerging to fill the gap.
Daily Video Game Deals May 28 – Potion Permit Complete Edition, Tekken 8, Helldivers 2, Blood & Truth, Demon’s Souls & More
Daily video game deals for May 28th include discounts on Potion Permit Complete Edition, Tekken 8, Helldivers 2, Blood & Truth, and Demon's Souls. These deals are available across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC platforms.
Saros Players Record 6.63 Million Hours and 13.13 Million Deaths in Its First Month
In its first month, Housemarque's roguelike bullet hell shooter Saros has seen players record 6.63 million hours and 13.13 million deaths on PlayStation 5. The Smart Rifle emerged as the most popular weapon, and the game's challenging yet approachable design is credited for its strong player engagement.
PS5’s Coolest DualSense Controllers Are Discounted For Days Of Play
Sony's Days of Play sale is offering discounts on various DualSense controllers for the PlayStation 5, including limited-edition models like those for Death Stranding 2 and Marathon. The controllers are also compatible with PC. Additionally, the DualSense Edge controller and PlayStation VR2 headset are available at reduced prices.
Grab Physical PS5 Games For Up To 60% Off During PlayStation’s Days Of Play Sale
Sony's annual Days of Play sale has begun, offering discounts of up to 60% on physical PlayStation 5 games and accessories until June 11. While consoles are not discounted, notable deals include collector's editions of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Ghost of Yotei, alongside popular titles like Returnal, The Last of Us Part I, and Marvel's Spider-Man 2.
Steam may have just thrown its weight behind bullet heaven, but last week's standout game was a one-of-a-kind…
Luna Abyss is a unique first-person bullet hell shooter that distinguishes itself from titles like Returnal with its 3D orb-dodging mechanics and massive scale. While initially easy, the game eventually ramps up to challenging combat encounters reminiscent of Doom Eternal, though its lock-on system simplifies aiming. The game also features extensive platforming sections and a vast, dark world, but is occasionally hampered by excessive dialogue.
After 7 years in development, an amazing single-player FPS just hit Steam and consoles: "We were heavily inspired by titles such as Nier Automata, Metroid Prime, Destiny, Halo"
Kwalee Labs has released its story-driven, single-player first-person shooter Luna Abyss on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X. The game, which has been in development since mid-2019, has received very positive user reviews and an 80 on Metacritic. Developers cited inspirations including Nier Automata, Metroid Prime, Destiny, Halo, and Returnal.
It Seems Most PS5 Fans Prefer Returnal Over Saros, But It's Not That Straightforward
A poll of PlayStation 5 owners indicates a preference for Returnal over Saros, with 43% favoring Returnal overall. However, Saros received higher marks for gameplay, while Returnal was preferred for its story and main character, Selene. Both games are developed by Housemarque.
Games Inbox: Is Destiny 2 a dead game now?
Readers discuss the current state of Destiny 2, with one questioning if it's a 'dead game' due to Bungie's handling of content and vaulting. Other topics include the timing of summer gaming showcases, Nintendo's pricing strategy, Sega's revival of old franchises, and the decline of traditional game announcements.
Saros is a worse game than Returnal in every way and that upsets me - Reader’s Feature
A reader expresses disappointment with Saros, arguing it is inferior to Returnal in almost every aspect, including story, characters, and world design. While acknowledging Saros's action is good, the reader finds its narrative too straightforward and its Lovecraftian influences less compelling than Returnal's. The article suggests Saros may have been made too mainstream, leading to its perceived shortcomings compared to the PlayStation 5 exclusive Returnal.
Games Inbox: Are you cancelling PS Plus because of the price rise?
Readers discuss the recent price increase for PlayStation Plus, with many considering cancelling their subscriptions due to the rising costs and the perceived lack of value compared to PC online play. Other topics include speculation on Grand Theft Auto 6 announcements, the persistent struggles of the Bubsy franchise, and the surprising sales figures of Dino Crisis compared to Ōkami.
Former Housemarque game director launches Cosmic Division
Former Returnal game director Harry Krueger has founded a new studio called Cosmic Division in Helsinki. The studio will focus on craftsmanship and sustainable growth, prioritizing a gameplay-first single-player experience for PC and consoles. Krueger previously spent 15 years at Housemarque, contributing to games like Nex Machina and Resogun before directing Returnal.
Games Inbox: What will be in the June State of Play for PS5?
Readers speculate on the content of Sony's upcoming PlayStation 5 State of Play, with likely appearances from Wolverine, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and God of War related content. The discussion also touches on the potential for a new Uncharted game and the impact of Warhorse Studios' Lord of the Rings title. Other topics include the state of arcade games, the future of franchises like Deus Ex and TimeSplitters, and comparisons between Forza Horizon 6 and older arcade racers.
New Studio Led By Returnal Director, Cosmic Division, Hopes To "Make a Lasting Impact"
Harry Krueger, the director of Returnal, has launched a new independent studio called Cosmic Division after 14 years at Housemarque Studio. The new company aims to create impactful, gameplay-first single-player titles for PC and consoles, building on Krueger's previous successes while exploring fresh creative directions.
'We're Not Standing Still': Returnal Director Forms New Studio to Make Games That Trust You
Harry Krueger, director of Returnal and a 14-year Housemarque veteran, has founded a new studio called Cosmic Division. The company is already working on its first project, a single-player, gameplay-first experience with a strong emotional story, planned for PC and consoles. Cosmic Division has secured initial funding and is seeking further investment and talent.
Former Housemarque game director launches new studio Cosmic Division
Former Housemarque game director Harry Krueger has launched a new independent studio named Cosmic Division. The Finnish studio aims to develop a new single-player intellectual property for PC and consoles, emphasizing a gameplay-first experience and emotional storytelling. Cosmic Division has secured seed financing and is actively hiring to build a compact team.
Returnal director and Housemarque veteran Harry Krueger launches Finland-based game studio Cosmic Division
Returnal game director Harry Krueger has launched a new independent game studio in Finland called Cosmic Division. The studio, founded by veterans from Housemarque, will focus on creating ambitious, gameplay-first single-player experiences with a strong sense of mystery and immersion. Their first project, a new intellectual property targeting consoles and PC, is expected to celebrate the studio's heritage and deliver impactful stories.
Former Housemarque director Harry Krueger establishes game studio Cosmic Division
Former Housemarque director Harry Krueger, known for his work on Returnal and Nex Machina, has established a new game studio named Cosmic Division. Krueger departed Housemarque in 2023 after a 14-year tenure.
Former Housemarque Game Director Harry Krueger launches new game studio
Former Housemarque Game Director Harry Krueger has launched a new game studio named Cosmic Division in Finland. Krueger, known for his work on titles like Returnal, aims to build on his experience with a focus on gameplay-first experiences and strong emotional resonance for their first project, a single-player PC and console title.