The Shelf

I love this game. You will be eliminated, many times, but you will enjoy the unique gameplay, how the level changes every time you start over and the blistering weapons needed to progress past enemies of varying degrees. The rush of a lockdown area where it’s you against relentless beasts all desperate to destroy you and your speed and skill at moving around while letting rip with your gun is a thrill knowing you cannot escape until you’ve defeated the lot of them. I’ve just got through the first boss, Phrike, which took me many goes to get to and defeat. I faced Phrike probably 6-8 times before I defeated it but the exploration of the outer ruins area kept me going for many hours and many defeats and I loved every minute of it. I’ve just started the next level in a vast desert area with even better baddies to destroy and cannot wait to see where it goes. The weapons are already blistering and spit out lazers at an incredible rate which are needed against tougher foes. This time last year, I was enjoying The Ascent which Returnal reminds me of although they are quite different games. Both are excellent and do not disappoint. Having completed both Last Of Us games for the 10th or so time, it’s nice to play something a bit different. If you like your heart to pop out of your chest due to sheer excitement and thrill factor then get Returnal. It is amazing.