Risk of Rain Returns

Steam pricePrice
$14.99
Players
2 - 4
Release
November 8, 2023
Session GoalsGoals
Platforms
Developer

How co-op works

Local or online survivors cross the same 2D stages as the difficulty timer escalates enemy strength. They choose complementary classes, divide stacking item drops, cover platforming routes and enemy waves, then regroup at each teleporter to defeat its boss and move on.

About this game

Risk of Rain Returns is a remastered roguelike where up to four players fight through waves of alien monsters in a relentless, item-driven gauntlet. Every run is a race against escalating difficulty, and the game emphasizes true cooperative survival as your squad scrambles to find teleporters, activate bosses, and escape before the chaos overwhelms you.

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Gameplay revolves around collecting dozens of stacking items that transform your abilities in wild, unpredictable ways. Communicating with teammates about loot priority, positioning, and when to trigger the next stage becomes essential as each run grows more frantic. The combination of pixel-perfect combat and exponential power scaling makes every session a thrilling experiment in cooperative chaos.

The game supports both online co-op and local couch co-op, including split-screen for shared-screen sessions. Whether you are coordinating over voice chat or huddled around one screen, the run-based structure and permadeath stakes create intense, memorable moments that demand constant teamwork and quick adaptation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many players can play co-op together?

Risk of Rain Returns supports up to four players in co-op, both online and local. You can play split-screen on the same system or connect with friends over the internet.

Does progress carry over between runs?

Each run is self-contained with permadeath, so you lose collected items when you die. However, the game features run-based progression that unlocks new Survivors, items, and content over time, giving you more options for future attempts.

Do we need good communication to play co-op effectively?

Yes, communication becomes essential as runs progress. You'll need to coordinate on loot priority, positioning during boss fights, and when to activate teleporters, especially as the difficulty escalates and the action gets more chaotic.

Can we play locally without an internet connection?

Yes, Risk of Rain Returns supports local couch co-op with split-screen play, so you can play with friends on the same system without needing an internet connection.