Finnish game developer Housemarque made a mark in 2021 with their release “Returnal” for the Sony PlayStation 5. This game immerses players in a cosmic horror-infused alien planet where an astronaut battles various enemies in a challenging yet graceful combat experience.
Staying true to its origins, Housemarque’s new game “Saros” builds upon familiar elements while incorporating features reminiscent of top games in similar genres. Despite being intense and not exactly cozy, fans of the studio’s previous works appreciate the game’s adrenaline-inducing nature.
“Saros” doesn’t focus much on a coherent storyline but instead envelops players in a hauntingly eerie world that leaves them breathless and eager for more encounters with its horrors.
The game plunges players right into the action with Arjun, a well-armed enforcer investigating the mysterious disappearance of previous expeditions on the alien planet Carcosa. “Saros” combines elements from roguelike and bullet hell genres, offering a gameplay experience that resets with each run while introducing new challenges and upgrades along the way.
Drawing inspiration from classic gaming, “Saros” introduces a unique twist on the bullet hell concept within a 3D environment, giving players a dynamic combat system referred to as “bullet ballet.” Armed with the Soltari Shield, Arjun navigates through a barrage of enemy fire, strategically absorbing blue bullets to power up his weapons and face off against formidable foes.
The game introduces the eclipse mechanic, where activating it alters the environment, making enemies more aggressive and rewarding players with additional resources at the cost of increased danger. Despite a minimal focus on narrative, “Saros” prioritizes gameplay, immersing players in combat and exploration.
While the storyline takes a back seat, the game’s atmosphere and gameplay shine, creating a sense of isolation and dread as players traverse eerie landscapes inspired by Lovecraftian and gothic horror themes. “Saros” offers a unique gaming experience that blends genres and challenges players, making it a standout title alongside other action-packed games like “Doom” and “Diablo.”
“Saros” is set to launch on April 30 for the Sony PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro, offering players a distinctive and engaging gaming experience.