5 Gripping Alternatives to the Sensational Returnal Game

In the realm of third-person roguelike shooters, there are a few names that dominate the industry. "Returnal" is one such dominant force that has attracted the interest of players worldwide with its unique blend of action and storytelling. However, if you're eager to explore games that offer similar devastating action and breathtaking narrative as "Returnal," you're in for a treat. In this article, we delve into five gripping alternatives to this sensational game, each boastful in their unique gameplay, engaging stories, and immersive settings.

1. Hades

Developed and published by Supergiant Games, "Hades" is a gripping roguelike action dungeon crawler that leaves players thirsting for more. The game features a unique art style, stellar voice acting, thrilling combat styles, and a captivating plot.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

In "Hades," players control Zagreus, the son of Hades, as he attempts to escape the underworld against his father's wishes. The gameplay focuses on real-time combat, with players being able to use a variety of different weapons and abilities gifted by the other Greek gods. They can also upgrade these abilities and weapons by defeating adversaries. Each time the player dies, they start from the beginning, which is typical of roguelike games. The game's setting features rich visuals and design, with a picturesque take on the themes of Greek mythology.

2. Risk of Rain 2

"Risk of Rain 2" is an exhilarating third-person shooter roguelike video game developed by Hopoo Games. It takes the essence of its predecessor, the first Risk of Rain game, and translates it into a three-dimension environment to knit a captivating gaming experience.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

In "Risk of Rain 2," players can individually or as part of a team, hustle to survive hostile planets loaded with an array of enemies. As they progress and gather items, they gain unique abilities that aid in the fight against substantial bosses in the game. However, the longer they spend in a level, the harder the game gets. The game's setting is a series of lush, detailed foreign planet landscapes filled with bizarre and fierce creatures.

3. Dead Cells

"Dead Cells" is a riveting roguelike video game that skillfully merges the realm of Metroidvania-style action games with procedural game design. It's developed and published by Motion Twin and has been praised for its engaging combat system and fluid animation.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

"Dead Cells" spotlights an amalgamation of exploration, brawls, and progression. Players control a mass of cells that occupies a deceased warrior's body, out to destroy a series of dungeons. It demands quick reflexes and sharp wit to survive the onslaught of foes. The game is set in a sprawling, ever-changing castle that presents a different challenge each time you play, furthered by the eerie and grim atmosphere that accompanies it.

4. Enter the Gungeon

"Enter the Gungeon" is an agile bullet hell roguelike game developed by Dodge Roll. It masterfully integrates shooting mechanics with dungeon crawling to spin an experience that pressure-tests a player's skill, wit, and patience.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

In "Enter the Gungeon," each participant embodies a character with a rich backstory, all searching for atonement within the notorious Gungeon. Through each level, players combat waves of adversaries that shoot bullets, utilizing a diverse selection of firearms and enhancements in a fervent quest for a weapon capable of erasing their history. The game unfolds in a vast subterranean labyrinth teeming with progressively challenging enemies, and the layout of each floor is randomly generated, ensuring a unique experience with every playthrough.

5. Moonlighter

"Moonlighter" is an action RPG indie game with roguelike elements developed by Digital Sun. Akin to a blend of the best elements from "Zelda" and "Stardew Valley," it has managed to carve a distinct niche in the roguelike genre.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

"Moonlighter" affords players the role of a shopkeeper named Will. By day, Will manages his shop by pricing items, upgrading the store, and accommodating customers. However, come night, he takes up the role of an adventurer, exploring various procedurally generated dungeons for items to sell in his shop. Each dungeon has unique enemies and a final boss. The game story seamlessly integrates the tension of dungeon crawling with the relaxing aspects of running a shop. Set in a quaint village surrounded by mysterious dungeons, the game provides a perfect balance of combat and commerce, delivering a gaming journey that's both diverse and satisfying.

Exploring these games brings forth a fresh perspective for roguelike action enthusiasts, each offering a unique spin-off from the conventional yet stay grounding in a quality gameplay experience that is central to the genre. The engaging narratives, dramatic action, or immersive environments all carry an essence similar to Returnal, making them ideal alternatives. So, if you're a Returnal and roguelike action games fan, these options are worth checking out.