Risk of Rain Returns stands out as a remastered roguelike action game that brings back the chaotic thrill of its original while introducing fresh elements for both new players and veterans. Released on PC, this title emphasizes fast-paced runs through alien landscapes, where survival hinges on smart item combinations and adaptive strategies against escalating threats.
Gameplay
In Risk of Rain Returns, the core loop revolves around dropping onto the planet Petrichor V as one of several unique survivors, each equipped with distinct abilities that shape how you approach combat and exploration. You start with basic skills and scavenge for items that stack in unpredictable ways, creating powerful synergies like electrifying attacks or explosive barrages. The game builds tension through timed stages, where difficulty ramps up as minutes pass, forcing quick decisions on whether to loot more or teleport to the next area. Combat feels fluid and intense, blending platforming with shooting mechanics against diverse monster hordes that grow stronger over time.
Mechanics like artifact selection add replayability, allowing you to tweak runs with modifiers such as random equipment swaps or periodic enemy invasions. These elements encourage experimentation, turning each attempt into a unique challenge. Survivors range from melee-focused brawlers to ranged specialists, and combining their strengths in co-op amplifies the strategic depth without overwhelming solo players.
Game Modes
Risk of Rain Returns supports both single-player and multiplayer experiences, with options for solo runs or teaming up in groups of up to four. Multiplayer includes online connectivity and local couch co-op, where players select complementary survivors to tackle the planet's dangers together. The game features a standard roguelike progression mode, enhanced by artifacts that introduce variations like altered item behaviors or increased enemy spawns every few minutes.
There are no distinct competitive modes; instead, the focus remains on cooperative survival against environmental and monstrous threats. This setup suits quick sessions or extended plays, with overhauled netcode ensuring smoother interactions in group settings.
Survivors and World
The roster includes 15 survivors, each with specialized kits that promote different playstyles. Returning favorites like the Chef, who slices enemies with precision, join newcomers such as the Drifter, a support-oriented fighter who collects scrap to spawn temporary buffs for the team or unleash area damage. Acrid, the toxic sludge-spewing monster, adds a layer of crowd control, while others like the Enforcer provide shielding for frontline defense.
Petrichor V serves as a hostile menagerie of creatures from various worlds, drawn there by mysterious forces. Exploration uncovers hidden secrets under logs and stones, revealing new paths and loot opportunities. The planet's biomes vary, hosting everything from standard foes to boss encounters that test your build's viability.
Is It Worth Playing?
With an OpenCritic score of 84, placing it in the top 7% of reviewed games[[1]](https://opencritic.com/game/15817/risk-of-rain-returns), Risk of Rain Returns has earned strong praise for its chaotic yet rewarding roguelike structure. Players appreciate the diverse survivor options and item synergies that keep runs fresh, though some note the large maps and relative slowness can feel daunting at first[[2]](https://www.reddit.com/r/riskofrain/comments/17tk93u/rorr_reviews). As of early 2024, the game remains in a solid state without major post-launch updates mentioned in recent discussions, but its core appeal holds up for those who enjoy action-packed roguelikes with multiplayer elements.
If you thrive on high-risk, high-reward gameplay where every decision impacts survival, this title offers excellent value. It's particularly suited for fans of cooperative challenges or solo progression in a sci-fi setting, making it a worthwhile pick for PC gamers seeking replayable action.
