Housemarque's next title, Saros, a successor to the acclaimed 2022 roguelite shooter Returnal, is set to launch in 2026 exclusively for PlayStation 5, with enhanced features for the PS5 Pro.
Unveiled during the recent PlayStation State of Play, Saros showcases Housemarque's signature style. Players assume the role of Arjun Devraj, a Solatri enforcer investigating a treacherous, ever-changing planet shrouded in an eclipse and menaced by a formidable entity. The game's atmosphere and core mechanics strongly resemble Returnal, with the recurring phrase "come back stronger" hinting at its roguelike elements, and the fiery combat reflecting Housemarque's renowned bullet-hell expertise.
Creative director Gregory Louden describes Saros as the "pinnacle" of Housemarque's gameplay-focused design philosophy. While a new single-player IP, it expands upon Returnal's engaging third-person action.
However, Saros introduces significant gameplay differences. According to Louden's PlayStation Blog post, a key departure from Returnal lies in its system of persistent resources and progression. While the game world dynamically alters upon player death, players retain and permanently upgrade their weaponry and protective gear.
Further details and an extended gameplay showcase are planned for later this year.
For a complete rundown of the PlayStation State of Play announcements, visit our comprehensive recap.
