Returnal: Ascension update

The moment many of you have been waiting for is almost here!

Our free update, Returnal: Ascension is out tomorrow (March 22nd, 2022)! 

Ascension brings us two new modes: co-op in the main game, and the Tower Of Sisyphus, the new endless mode.

Make sure to complete any Suspended Cycles before downloading the Returnal: Ascension update to prevent any loss of non-permanent progress.

Remember that if you have the automatic updates turned on, the game will close while in rest mode in order to install the update. 


Patch notes:

  • Co-op: Combine forces with a second Selene

  • Tower of Sisyphus: Endless mode, where Selene is drawn to climb the Tower and solve its mysteries, and the player is chasing the highest score 

  • Bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements

New features:

Co-op - Using the Chronosis portal lets you summon a second Selene from another timeline, so now you can combine forces with a friend and face the dangers of Atropos together. You have the choice of joining or hosting a public session, or alternatively hosting a private session. 

Progression is tied to the host, but the client players who join a session will be able to keep some of the process they make - such as collecting logs and xenoglyphs - and they’re able to level up their Scout Rank based on how many players they help by joining a session. 

In co-op mode the world of Atropos has been rebalanced, so Returnal remains the treacherous experience you know and love. 

Note that the Tower of Sisyphus, House sequences and Daily Challenge are not available in Co-op Mode.


Tower of Sisyphus - True to our arcade roots, the Tower of Sisyphus brings an endless survival mode in Returnal. You strive to ascend the tower as high as possible, chasing a high score by increasing and keeping up your score multiplier, until Selene meets her demise in the hands of the many hazards of the Tower. 

You make your way up the Tower of Sisyphus in phases, and each phase will lead up to a battle against the new boss, Algos. While there are optional routes and secrets to be found, in the Tower the emphasis is on survival, skill, and focused progression.

The Tower of Sisyphus brings new levels, new special weapons and a new boss, but also continues the story of Selene as you climb the Tower. 

We hope you will enjoy Returnal: Ascension! Remember to share your journey with us @Housemarque by using the tags #Returnal #ReturnalAscension.







Noemi Cugudda