Returnal, a new action-adventure game from Housemarque, is a fast-paced, sci-fi-themed shooter that offers a unique blend of action and roguelike mechanics. With its randomly generated levels and intense combat, Returnal offers an addictive experience that’s hard to put down. But what if you want something similar? If you’re looking for more games like Returnal, then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a list of ten great games that offer similar experiences.
1. Hades
Hades is a roguelike dungeon crawler with a Greek mythology theme. Like Returnal, the levels are randomly generated and you’ll have to keep pushing forward in order to survive. While the core gameplay mechanics are similar, there are some significant differences. In Hades, you have multiple runs and you can upgrade your character with the souls of your defeated foes. The combat is less intense than Returnal, but the reward system is more intricate.
2. Dead Cells
Dead Cells is a stylish roguelike platformer with tight controls, intense combat, and randomly generated levels. Just like Returnal, the levels are filled with powerful enemies, and you can use an array of weapons and special abilities to defeat them. The main difference is that Dead Cells focuses more on combat and platforming than exploration. There’s also an upgrade system that lets you customize your character.
3. Enter the Gungeon
Enter the Gungeon is a rogue-like shooter where you blast your way through randomly generated dungeons. It’s fast-paced and frantic, just like Returnal. You’ll get to choose from a variety of weapons and special abilities to fight off the hordes of enemies. The main difference is that the bullets in Enter the Gungeon can ricochet off walls, allowing you to reach more enemies in less time.
4. Risk of Rain 2
Risk of Rain 2 is a roguelike third-person shooter with randomly generated levels. You’ll battle through hordes of enemies, collect powerful items, and use various abilities to survive. The core gameplay mechanics are very similar to Returnal, though Risk of Rain 2 is much more focused on combat. You can also choose from multiple characters with unique abilities.
5. Rogue Legacy
Rogue Legacy is a roguelike platformer where you play as a succession of heroes in randomly generated dungeons. You’ll need to use your skill and your wits to survive the hordes of enemies and the traps. It’s more of a classic platformer experience than Returnal, but it offers a similar level of challenge. Plus, you can upgrade your characters with the gold you collect during your runs.
6. Dead End Job
Dead End Job is an action-packed roguelike where you play as a hapless ghostbuster. You’ll have to use your special abilities and weapons to fight off the hordes of ghosts in randomly generated levels. The core gameplay mechanics are very similar to Returnal, though the setting is much more lighthearted and whimsical. Plus, you’ll get to upgrade your character with the cash you collect.
7. Hyper Light Drifter
Hyper Light Drifter is an action-RPG with randomly generated levels and a cyberpunk-inspired setting. Just like Returnal, you’ll have to battle through hordes of enemies and use powerful weapons and special abilities to survive. The main difference is that Hyper Light Drifter has more of an RPG feel, allowing you to customize your character with new equipment and upgrades.
8. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is a top-down roguelike shooter with randomly generated levels and a horror theme. You’ll have to battle through hordes of enemies and use various items and abilities to survive. The core mechanics are quite similar to Returnal, though The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth has a much greater emphasis on exploration. Plus, you can upgrade your character with new abilities and items.
9. Immortal Planet
Immortal Planet is a roguelike action-RPG set in an ancient world filled with traps and monsters. Like Returnal, the levels are randomly generated and you’ll have to battle through hordes of enemies to survive. The core mechanics are similar, but Immortal Planet has more of an RPG feel, allowing you to customize your character with new skills and upgrades.
10. Nuclear Throne
Nuclear Throne is a roguelike shooter set in a post-apocalyptic world. You’ll have to battle through hordes of mutants and use an array of weapons and special abilities to survive. The core mechanics are quite similar to Returnal, though Nuclear Throne has a more action-oriented focus. Plus, you can customize your character with various upgrades and special abilities.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for more intense shoot-em-up action with a mix of roguelike mechanics, then you should definitely check out these ten games like Returnal. Whether you’re looking for a platformer, an action-RPG, or a top-down shooter, there’s something here for everyone. Each game offers its own unique blend of fast-paced action and roguelike elements, and you’ll have plenty of chances to upgrade your character and customize your playstyle. So dive in and get ready for some intense shoot-em-up action!