It was only a matter of time - Housemarque finally breaks the silence. After the cinematic unveiling trailer for "SAROS" raised more questions than it answered, fans can now breathe a sigh of relief: the first real gameplay reveal is imminent. And yes, this time it should not only look good, but also really get down to business in terms of gameplay.
After the surprise success of "Returnal", Housemarque can now be trusted to do anything. The studio has proven that it not only has arcade DNA in its blood, but can also transform it into modern roguelike structures with depth. But SAROS promises more than just a continuation of familiar virtues - it wants to break up the genre. Permanent resources, progress beyond death? Almost revolutionary for a game of this type. Or dangerous. Because what happens to the famous "just one more run" feeling when death suddenly becomes a little nicer?
SAROS brings a breath of fresh air to the roguelike genre
Sure, SAROS remains a roguelike - but one with a twist. The new hero, Arjun Devraj, voiced by Midnight Mass-star Rahul Kohli, is not a mute avatar, but a powerful Soltari enforcer with a history, goals and - get this - real emotions. The player accompanies him on his search for a lost colony on the dark planet Carcosa, whose name not coincidentally evokes Lovecraftian associations.
And although the first trailer was almost shamelessly stylized - hello, sci-fi opera in Hollywood guise - the vision already shone through underneath: hard-hitting action, surreal worlds and enemies that you instinctively know are going to knock your socks off. Only this time you might not have to start from scratch.
A new hero, an alien planet - and lots of unanswered questions
The announced gameplay reveal should provide in-depth insights - not only into combat mechanics, but also into the atmosphere and story. It remains to be seen whether Housemarque will be able to build on the narrative power of "Returnal" or even go one step further. One thing is certain: "SAROS" will be different. Darker, more personal, perhaps even bolder.
If Housemarque delivers, "SAROS" will be more than just a new game - it will be a statement. And that statement starts with the gameplay reveal. Clear the stage for Carcosa.
English 
German