Returnal

At a glance

• Editor score
  5.3 / 10
• Pricing
  From $69.99
• Best for
  Players who want a challenging roguelike shooter
• Free plan
  No
• Paid from
  $69.99one-time
• Console platforms
  PS5
• Facts checked
  5 Oct 2026

• Where it wins

  • Procedurally changing world and equipment reshape each cycle
  • Two-player online co-op and the Tower of Sisyphus add modes
  • Manual saving and accessibility options are included

• Where it doesn't

  • Standard Edition costs $69.99 one-time
  • Runs reset after death, requiring careful resource management
  • Online co-op is limited to two players

Our verdict on Returnal

Selene’s journey across a changing alien world gives Returnal its shape: this third-person roguelike shooter pairs exploration with bullet-hell fights against hostile creatures. Death restarts a cycle, so players must manage equipment and resources while piecing together a story from fragments of Selene’s memories. Its single-player action focus suits players who want demanding, repeatable runs; it is less suited to anyone seeking a relaxed shooter or a broad set of multiplayer modes.

Each cycle changes the world and available equipment, keeping combat and exploration intertwined rather than making progression a simple march through fixed encounters. Ascension adds online co-op for two players and the Tower of Sisyphus challenge, while Daily Challenges and global leaderboards offer additional goals. Manual saving and accessibility options round out the feature set. Choose Returnal for a focused action experience built around restarting and adapting; players who prefer persistent, linear progress may want another kind of shooter.

The Standard Edition is a $69.99 one-time purchase and includes the base game. The Digital Deluxe Edition costs $79.99 one-time, adding bonus weapons and items, PSN avatars and a digital soundtrack. That makes the upgrade’s value primarily a matter of interest in those extras: the listed modes and core gameplay are part of the base game. The game is listed for PS5 and PC, with online play requirements on PlayStation’s US page. Its entry price is substantial for a package centered on solo runs, two-player co-op and challenges, so price-conscious players should weigh those specific modes before buying.

Returnal pricing

All 2 Returnal plans and prices →

Returnal fact sheet

Alternatives to Returnal

• GTGrand Theft Auto VA broad single-player story and multiplayer modes, sold as a one-time PC purchase.9.4
• ERElden RingA sprawling action RPG with flexible combat and online co-op and competition.9.3
• SVStardew ValleyA flexible farming RPG with exploration, relationships, and online co-op for a one-time price.9.2

See all Returnal alternatives →

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 5 Oct 2026 · How we research and update