Risk of Rain Returns stands out as a roguelike action platformer that brings fresh life to its origins through careful remastering. Available on PC, this game combines fast-paced combat with procedurally generated challenges, where players navigate the hostile planet Petrichor V, battling diverse monsters while scavenging for powerful items. With a focus on skill progression and strategic builds, it appeals to those who enjoy intense, replayable runs in a multiplayer or solo setting.
Gameplay
In Risk of Rain Returns, the core experience revolves around selecting a Survivor and dropping into timed stages that grow increasingly difficult. Players move through side-scrolling levels, using abilities to defeat enemies and bosses while collecting items that stack and synergize for unique builds. For example, items like the Ukulele can trigger chain lightning, while the Brilliant Behemoth adds explosive effects to attacks. Artifacts allow modifications to runs, such as starting with random equipment or triggering enemy invasions every few minutes, adding layers of strategy and chaos.
Each Survivor brings distinct playstyles, from melee-focused brawlers to ranged attackers. The Drifter, a new addition, collects scrap to create temporary buffs for the team or unleashes area damage. Combat demands precise platforming and timing, as hordes of monsters from various worlds swarm the player. Multiplayer enhances this by allowing complementary Survivor choices, where one might shield allies while another lays down toxic paths.
Game Modes
The game supports solo play for those tackling runs alone, building strength through item collection and ability mastery. For groups, it offers online co-op and local couch co-op with up to four players, emphasizing teamwork against escalating threats.
Variety comes from artifacts that alter the rules, creating custom experiences without distinct named modes. Players can activate multiple artifacts for combined effects, leading to unpredictable sessions focused on survival and exploration.
Survivors and Enemies
With 15 unique Survivors, including returning favorites like Chef, Enforcer, and Acrid, plus newcomers such as the Drifter, the roster encourages experimentation. Each has abilities tailored for different strategies, like shielding teams or dealing poison damage.
Enemies draw from a menagerie of galactic threats, ranging from basic foes to powerful bosses. Their behaviors and attacks require adaptive tactics, with the planet's secrets hidden in logs and stones offering new paths and loot opportunities.
Is It Worth Playing?
Risk of Rain Returns earns strong praise for its chaotic yet rewarding action, holding an OpenCritic score of 84 from critics. Players highlight the diverse Survivor options and item synergies as standout features, making it a solid choice for roguelike enthusiasts seeking replayability.
Since its 2023 release, the game remains in a stable state with no major ongoing seasons or updates noted, but its core content provides lasting value. If you thrive on building overpowered runs and cooperating in tough scenarios, this title delivers consistent engagement without needing constant support. For action platformer fans, it offers a compelling package worth the time.
