Returnal PC Review

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Returnal PC Review

🖥️ Our PC Specs 

OS: Windows 10 64-bit
CPU Processor:
AMD RYZEN 9 300XT (12 Core Processor)
Memory: 32 GB RAM DDR4
Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 Super
DirectX: Version 12
Install Size: 42 GB

Native Horror goes Rogue... 

Returnal’s impact on PlayStation has been emphatic in how Roguelikes are expanding beyond the cyclic expedition that compels players to journey and navigate multiple areas. Randomised settings and reconstructed events make Returnal one of the most unique ways to experience Selene’s dystopic and deathly peruse on lost planet Atropos – aptly named after the Greek God of fates. While this was my second expedition through the less-than-inviting terrace, I was excited to see how the title would translate toward PC, given how monumental its respective attributes and characteristics were on PlayStation 5. Given the time, Climax Studios has excellently ported the game to the universal platform that bolsters a minor barrier of entry to those harnessing the hardware capable of pushing the title to its maximum potential.

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Returnal’s gameplay loop is one that appeases to a crowd of many, to which it seats prominently on PC alongside PlayStation’s ongoing rollout of releases from their established exclusives. However, this title may be the ultimate example, with almost zero issues tied, other than a minor hitch here and there, which is easily patched out. Framerate issues aside, the title on PC is completely intact and demonstrates how given the right specifics, can be one of the best gaming experiences this year. NVIDIA and AMD have respectfully served options in their DLSS, NIS and FSR optimisations, showing how clean, crisp, fluid and smooth Returnal’s presentation is in an open scale and native setting. DLSS allowed me to play either quality, balanced or performance to which I toggled between. Depending on the events, I found the best way to play was performance but I gave balanced a fair go and whilst I had only miniscule framerate dips, it was my preferred way to experience Returnal on PC.

Restart the Cycle...

SOLID POINTS

✔️ Possibly PlayStation’s greatest port to PC.

✔️ Emphatic in detail, DLSS looks phenomenal.

✔️ Raytracing is on a whole new level in this port, raising the bar for pending releases from PlayStation’s acclaimed library of games.

❌ Miniscule hitches. Quality mode could use some TLC.

Raytracing on Atropos is on another level, with engrossing visuals that will leave you in awe, but hopefully for a short period as the game will continue to challenge you regardless of its mesmerising displays of eerie scenery. Refined detail is highlighted through spectrums of light reflecting off cracked surfaces, or beaming out Selene’s weaponry. Textures and shaders look phenomenal with multiple monsters mercilessly lurking, ready to leap out and attack in dire moments. Climax has managed to recapture the immersion that catapulted Housemarque into acclaimed territory upon the title’s initial release.

While keyboard and mouse are an exponential improvement to seamless movement, given Returnal’s madhouse altercations that can be overwhelming, it still has nothing on the trademark sensations delivered through the pulses of a PlayStation Dualsense controller. For those that do have the PS5 remote handy, I would suggest trying it out before immediately leaping into the coinciding controller layout. It will come naturally for PC gamers to initiate Returnal’s control scheme, while PlayStation gamers will feel at home with a controller in hand.

Now I should mention that I had the chance to play the title on Steam Deck, as a fortunate Deck importer. In performance, this game is astounding. Yes it’s not perfect, but it pushes the hardware to its absolute, presenting some of the best visuals ever seen on a smaller screen. Pixel density lends itself monumentally while limiting some framerate. I customised the title to run at a locked 40FPS, so it would cloak some staggers that would occur at random. The Deck itself is built to carry the AAA experience portably, and Returnal sits comfortably within that scope. Unless you’re looking to play on TV – which then I would advise not to off your Steam Deck – it’s an entirely different tale. If you are playing on your TV, I would advise sticking to the PlayStation or PC version with capabilities that present the title in ultimate fashion.

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The patters of rain drops expelling on the Dualsense, while trudging through grains of dirt and grassy mould make for a one-of-a-kind experience, not seen in many PlayStation exclusives to date. An almost forgone launch gimmick that’s been set aside unfortunately. There’s a level of depth and immersion you just don’t get with the standard keyboard-mouse combination, that you do with a Dualsense in hand, and Dolby-Atmos headphones. Speaking of, audiophiles, prepare your senses for some of the greatest sound design in gaming. Whether you’re rocking the official Sony PlayStation 5 PULSE 3D Wireless headset, or your respective brand of choice – this of course depends on its make and price-tag – you’re in for one of the most unearthly hearings as each step, creep, scream, shake, squeal and blast will reverberate through you.

Masterfully designed in every way, the PC port of Returnal is a shining beacon to what we hope PlayStation have in-store for future releases on the platform. While there have been great examples placed on PC, it’s never initiated a conversation of perfection. This is perfection. Attesting to Returnal’s polished facets and features that pushed the PlayStation 5’s hardware to new heights in 2021, Climax Studios has sought to mirror the esteemed acclaim toward its translation, bringing the roguelike to fresh eyes. A palpable experience, to which Housemarque have laid an astronomic foundation toward something special. Returnal is a tour de force in roguelikes, making it unmissable and essential in every aspect and definition.

Returnal PC Review

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Returnal is a third-person shooter roguelike video game developed by Housemarque and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It was released for the PlayStation 5 on April 30, 2021 and is set to release on Windows in early 2023.

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Story
10
Gameplay
9
Presentation
10
Sound
10
10

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