Housemarque's PS5-exclusive title Returnal doesn't have a save function like you'd usually see in games. It's designed to challenge players, with its time-loop focused plot and roguelike biome setups each time you play. When you die, you return to the very start, with minimal carry-over from your previous run.
It's reminiscent of the Tom Cruise actioner Edge of Tomorrow, in that trial-and-error is how you progress. However, you're tied into potentially playing several hours at a time, because you can't save your progress between biomes or even rooms.
Now, a new Reddit discussion has drawn the attention of Housemarque themselves, who have stated they are listening to players' concerns.
The thread — titled "No need to be toxic about people who need save-options!" — has drawn over 750 comments so far, with players split on whether a traditional save feature is necessary.
One one hand, not everyone has time to sit down and play two, three, five hours at a time, meaning often they cannot clear all six biomes in a single run. On the other, a save feature, whether auto- or manual, would go against the whole point of the plot and central mechanic.
Housemarque's reply leaves a lot to the imagination. Does their use of the word 'now' mean that something could be in the works down the line, once more player data is available to be analysed?
Either way, it seems Returnal is proving to be a hit in its early days. As of publication it has a Metacritic score of 86, despite its classic roguelike hallmarks of punishing nature and repetitive gameplay.
Check out our guide on getting started below!
We've put together this guide with tips and advice to help you get started in Returnal, Housemarque's PS5-exclusive roguelike shooter.
