- Steam pricePrice
- $59.99
- Release
- February 15, 2023
- Modes
- Platforms
How co-op works
Two players share the host’s campaign cycle online, dividing scarce pickups and reviving one another when downed. The host keeps world progress; the visitor retains Ether, weapon-trait progress, databank entries, collectibles, and Scout Rank, while the Tower, House sequences, and Challenge Mode remain solo-only.
About this game
Returnal drops you into a relentless roguelike loop where astronaut Selene crash-lands on a shape-shifting alien world and must fight her way through each death to uncover the mystery of her curse. This is a true co-op experience, with online multiplayer allowing a second player to join your run and tackle the bullet hell chaos together.
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You'll dodge curtains of enemy fire, scavenge alien artifacts, and experiment with strange weapons as you push deeper into procedurally generated biomes. Every death resets the world, but cooperative play adds a layer of tactical revival and shared resource management that transforms the pressure into teamwork.
Returnal supports online co-op only, so you and a partner can face the cycle from separate machines. Runs demand constant communication, quick callouts during firefights, and coordinated use of health items and weapon pickups, making each session a high-stakes test of synergy and survival.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play Returnal co-op with a friend from start to finish?
Yes, Returnal supports online co-op for two players throughout the entire game. A second player can join your run and you'll tackle the roguelike cycle together, sharing the bullet hell combat and exploration. Note that co-op is online only-no local split-screen or couch co-op is available.
How important is communication when playing Returnal co-op?
Communication is critical. Returnal's bullet hell combat demands quick callouts during intense firefights, coordination around health items and weapon pickups, and tactical decisions about when to revive each other. The game is designed around communication-heavy teamwork, so a mic or voice chat is highly recommended.