Saros Review: Housemarque Perfects the Formula with a PS5 Masterpiece According to Destructoid
In brief
After the mixed reception of Returnal, Housemarque comes back in force with Saros, a PS5 exclusive that redefines the roguelike by making it more accessible without losing its depth. The studio has revolutionized the formula with an innovative structure based on a sanctuary between biomes, allowing for short or marathon sessions, accompanied by a dazzling art direction and a captivating soundtrack.
After a mixed reception for Returnal, Housemarque has made a triumphant comeback with Saros, a PlayStation 5 exclusive that redefines the boundaries of the roguelike genre. The studio took player feedback into account and created a much more accessible experience while maintaining an appreciable depth. Let's take a closer look at Destructoid's conclusions on this rising hit.
The gameplay, as dynamic and demanding as ever, remains Housemarque's trademark. However, the big novelty lies in the game's structure. Gone is the stress of long sessions lost to frustrating mistakes: between each biome, you return to your refuge, your home base. This approach changes everything about the enjoyment of play. You can play in short 20-to-25-minute sessions or dive into uninterrupted marathons. The biomes are physically interconnected, offering a flexibility rarely seen in the genre.
Visually, Saros ranks among the best productions out there right now, with a dazzling art direction and remarkable fluidity. The game's unique atmosphere seeps through every pixel, guaranteeing total immersion. The soundtrack, too, perfectly accompanies the experience with haunting melodies.
The plot, rich and mysterious, also deserves to be explored, according to the Destructoid journalist. Arjun doesn't go on this adventure alone, and each run enriches the next thanks to a well-designed, systematic progression. The length is reasonable for enthusiasts, and adjusts to each player's pace.
Although a few minor weak points can be noted, especially regarding long-term replayability, the whole proves to be thoroughly coherent and polished. Saros represents the natural evolution fans had been eagerly awaiting!
Strengths
- Revolutionary structure with a return to the refuge between biomes
- Nervy, unforgiving gameplay perfectly mastered
- Impressive art direction and exemplary fluidity
- Increased accessibility without sacrificing depth
- Dense plot and engaging systemic progression
Weaknesses
- Long-term replayability yet to be confirmed
- A few minor visual imperfections
Verdict
Saros is the best PS5 game of 2026: a lesson in video game design from Housemarque.
Share this article
Are you convinced by this new approach to the roguelike genre offered by Housemarque?
Frequently asked questions
What sets Saros apart from other roguelikes?
Is Saros more accessible than Returnal?
How long does a play session last?
What is the long-term replayability potential?
Key takeaways
- Saros offers a revolutionary structure with a sanctuary between biomes, eliminating the frustration of long lost sessions
- Flexible play sessions (20-25 minutes or more) adapt to every player style
- The art direction and visual fluidity rank Saros among the best productions currently available
- A well-designed systematic progression enriches each run thanks to perfected roguelike mechanics
- The mysterious plot and captivating soundtrack guarantee total immersion
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to react!
Android
iOS
Mac
Meta Quest 3
Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch 2
PC
PlayStation 4
PlayStation 5
PS VR2
Steam Deck
SteamVR
Xbox One
Xbox Series