Saros Review: Housemarque Perfects the Formula with a PS5 Masterpiece According to Destructoid
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Credit: Sony

Saros Review: Housemarque Perfects the Formula with a PS5 Masterpiece According to Destructoid

Fabian Fabian Lainé
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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.

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Frequently asked questions

What sets Saros apart from other roguelikes?
Saros introduces an innovative structure with a sanctuary between biomes, allowing you to play in short sessions without losing your progress. The biomes are physically interconnected, offering rare flexibility for the genre.
Is Saros more accessible than Returnal?
Yes, Housemarque took player feedback into account and created a much more accessible experience while maintaining appreciable depth and consistently dynamic gameplay.
How long does a play session last?
Sessions can last between 20 and 25 minutes for quick runs, or stretch into uninterrupted marathons depending on the player's preference.
What is the long-term replayability potential?
While a few weak points are noted regarding long-term replayability, the whole remains coherent and polished, with a reasonable lifespan that adjusts to each player's pace.

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

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