{"id":28049,"date":"2025-02-22T00:07:11","date_gmt":"2025-02-22T00:07:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/?p=28049"},"modified":"2025-02-22T00:07:11","modified_gmt":"2025-02-22T00:07:11","slug":"what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/","title":{"rendered":"What is the hardest level in Returnal?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_67_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#What_is_the_Hardest_Level_in_Returnal_A_Deep_Dive_into_Atropos_Toughest_Biome\" title=\"What is the Hardest Level in Returnal? A Deep Dive into Atropos&#8217; Toughest Biome\">What is the Hardest Level in Returnal? A Deep Dive into Atropos&#8217; Toughest Biome<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Why_Fractured_Wastes_is_Considered_the_Hardest\" title=\"Why Fractured Wastes is Considered the Hardest\">Why Fractured Wastes is Considered the Hardest<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Environmental_Challenges\" title=\"Environmental Challenges\">Environmental Challenges<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Relentless_Enemy_Encounters\" title=\"Relentless Enemy Encounters\">Relentless Enemy Encounters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#The_Tower_Boss_and_Its_Demands\" title=\"The Tower Boss and Its Demands\">The Tower Boss and Its Demands<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Other_Contenders_for_Hardest_Level\" title=\"Other Contenders for Hardest Level\">Other Contenders for Hardest Level<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Crimson_Wastes_Biome_2\" title=\"Crimson Wastes (Biome 2)\">Crimson Wastes (Biome 2)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Abyssal_Scar_Biome_6\" title=\"Abyssal Scar (Biome 6)\">Abyssal Scar (Biome 6)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Why_Other_Biomes_are_Considered_Easier\" title=\"Why Other Biomes are Considered Easier\">Why Other Biomes are Considered Easier<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#The_Verdict\" title=\"The Verdict\">The Verdict<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#1_How_many_biomes_are_in_Returnal\" title=\"1. How many biomes are in Returnal?\">1. How many biomes are in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#2_Is_Returnal_an_easy_game\" title=\"2. Is Returnal an easy game?\">2. Is Returnal an easy game?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#3_Which_is_the_hardest_boss_in_Returnal\" title=\"3. Which is the hardest boss in Returnal?\">3. Which is the hardest boss in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#4_Is_it_possible_to_beat_Returnal_without_dying\" title=\"4. Is it possible to beat Returnal without dying?\">4. Is it possible to beat Returnal without dying?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#5_What_is_the_best_gun_in_Returnal\" title=\"5. What is the best gun in Returnal?\">5. What is the best gun in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#6_What_is_the_best_weapon_early_in_Returnal\" title=\"6. What is the best weapon early in Returnal?\">6. What is the best weapon early in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#7_What_is_the_first_gun_in_Returnal\" title=\"7. What is the first gun in Returnal?\">7. What is the first gun in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#8_What_is_the_best_build_in_Returnal\" title=\"8. What is the best build in Returnal?\">8. What is the best build in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#9_Can_you_get_stronger_in_Returnal\" title=\"9. Can you get stronger in Returnal?\">9. Can you get stronger in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#10_How_many_times_can_you_sleep_in_Returnal\" title=\"10. How many times can you sleep in Returnal?\">10. How many times can you sleep in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#11_How_long_does_it_take_to_beat_Returnal\" title=\"11. How long does it take to beat Returnal?\">11. How long does it take to beat Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#12_What_percentage_of_players_have_beaten_Returnal\" title=\"12. What percentage of players have beaten Returnal?\">12. What percentage of players have beaten Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#13_Is_Returnal_harder_than_Demons_Souls\" title=\"13. Is Returnal harder than Demon&#8217;s Souls?\">13. Is Returnal harder than Demon&#8217;s Souls?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#14_What_is_permanent_progression_in_Returnal\" title=\"14. What is permanent progression in Returnal?\">14. What is permanent progression in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/#15_What_is_the_secret_ending_in_Returnal\" title=\"15. What is the secret ending in Returnal?\">15. What is the secret ending in Returnal?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Hardest_Level_in_Returnal_A_Deep_Dive_into_Atropos_Toughest_Biome\"><\/span>What is the Hardest Level in Returnal? A Deep Dive into Atropos&#8217; Toughest Biome<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p>The question of <strong>Returnal\u2019s<\/strong> most challenging level is a hotly debated topic among players who have braved the unforgiving world of Atropos. While opinions vary based on individual playstyles and experiences, a strong consensus points toward the <strong>Fractured Wastes (Biome 3)<\/strong> as the most consistently brutal area in the game. This biome\u2019s unique combination of long, winding layouts, relentless enemy aggression, and punishing environmental hazards make it a significant hurdle for even seasoned players. It\u2019s here that the game truly tests everything you&#8217;ve learned, demanding mastery of its mechanics and a patient, strategic approach.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Fractured_Wastes_is_Considered_the_Hardest\"><\/span>Why Fractured Wastes is Considered the Hardest<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Environmental_Challenges\"><\/span>Environmental Challenges<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Fractured Wastes distinguishes itself with its intricate and often disorienting level design. Unlike the relatively straightforward layouts of earlier biomes, this area features <strong>long, interconnected pathways<\/strong>, frequently forcing players into vulnerable situations where enemies can easily flank them. The terrain is also filled with vertical elements and multi-tiered platforms, adding an extra layer of complexity to traversal and combat. Furthermore, the biome introduces hazardous environmental elements that can quickly drain your health if you are not careful. This means players need to be both aggressive and defensive at the same time.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Relentless_Enemy_Encounters\"><\/span>Relentless Enemy Encounters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The enemies in the Fractured Wastes are a significant step up in difficulty from those in previous biomes. <strong>Aggressive drones and agile, teleporting adversaries<\/strong> are just a few of the dangers that await you. These enemies often attack in groups, making it crucial to maintain situational awareness and control the engagement space. <strong>Elite enemies<\/strong>, marked with purple auras, also begin to appear with more frequency, each presenting a unique and often dangerous combat challenge. This forces players to utilize every skill and tool they&#8217;ve picked up to survive.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Tower_Boss_and_Its_Demands\"><\/span>The Tower Boss and Its Demands<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The level culminates in a battle with <strong>Nemesis<\/strong>, a towering, multi-phase boss that requires a high degree of skill and precision to defeat. Nemesis employs a wide range of projectile attacks, requiring players to constantly move and adapt to its rapidly changing patterns.  The fight against Nemesis demands that players have a strong understanding of the game&#8217;s movement mechanics, ability to utilize cover effectively, and mastery of their weapon of choice. Failure to do so is often met with swift defeat.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Contenders_for_Hardest_Level\"><\/span>Other Contenders for Hardest Level<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>While the Fractured Wastes typically takes the crown, other biomes have their own unique challenges:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Crimson_Wastes_Biome_2\"><\/span>Crimson Wastes (Biome 2)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>Crimson Wastes<\/strong> is considered challenging due to its introduction of <strong>new enemy types<\/strong> and the increasing complexity of combat encounters. The open nature of the environments, coupled with the introduction of long-range threats can make it dangerous for those not prepared.  Many players find themselves struggling to adjust to the increased aggression of enemies encountered here after navigating the first biome. However, it is generally regarded as less difficult than the Fractured Wastes, but the difficulty spike here is not negligible.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Abyssal_Scar_Biome_6\"><\/span>Abyssal Scar (Biome 6)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>Abyssal Scar<\/strong> presents a challenge with its unique underwater environments and the final boss encounter against <strong>Ophion<\/strong>.  The environment requires players to adapt to movement and combat with a focus on verticality and unique attacks from deep-sea enemies. While the boss fight is challenging, by this point in the game, many players have the tools and the experience to overcome it. Its perceived difficulty often stems from the sheer length of the run leading up to the boss fight, as opposed to being inherently difficult itself.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Other_Biomes_are_Considered_Easier\"><\/span>Why Other Biomes are Considered Easier<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Biomes like the <strong>Overgrown Ruins (Biome 1)<\/strong> are considered easier due to their more forgiving environments and enemy types.  The game\u2019s tutorial phase is designed to ease players into its core mechanics and provide the necessary experience before the difficulty ramps up.  The <strong>Echoing Ruins (Biome 4)<\/strong> are considered relatively easier after having experienced Biomes 2 and 3 as it allows a sense of rest and respite after the struggles the player has faced so far. Biome 5, <strong>The Derelict Citadel<\/strong>, while challenging in its own right, is often seen as a shorter level where the challenge room is the only obstacle for players who have already mastered the core gameplay loop.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Verdict\"><\/span>The Verdict<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The <strong>Fractured Wastes<\/strong> is generally accepted as the hardest level in Returnal due to its combination of environmental complexity, relentless enemy aggression, and the demanding boss fight with Nemesis. While other biomes offer their own challenges, the consistent difficulty and high demands of the Fractured Wastes make it a formidable obstacle for any player. Overcoming this biome often marks a significant turning point for players, indicating a mastery of the game\u2019s mechanics and a readiness for the challenges that lie ahead.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_How_many_biomes_are_in_Returnal\"><\/span>1. How many biomes are in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>There are a total of <strong>six biomes<\/strong> in Returnal, each with its own unique environments, enemies, and challenges.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Is_Returnal_an_easy_game\"><\/span>2. Is Returnal an easy game?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>No, Returnal is not an easy game.<\/strong> It is known for its high difficulty, unforgiving nature, and challenging roguelike elements. It requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of its gameplay mechanics.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Which_is_the_hardest_boss_in_Returnal\"><\/span>3. Which is the hardest boss in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Many consider <strong>Nemesis<\/strong> to be the most challenging boss in Returnal due to its multi-phase attacks and need for tactical movement. Other demanding bosses include Hyperion and Ophion.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Is_it_possible_to_beat_Returnal_without_dying\"><\/span>4. Is it possible to beat Returnal without dying?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Yes, it is possible<\/strong> but extremely challenging to beat Returnal without dying. It requires a high level of skill and luck. The game is designed to be challenging with repeated deaths as a core part of the experience.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_What_is_the_best_gun_in_Returnal\"><\/span>5. What is the best gun in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While opinions vary, the <strong>Carbine, Blaster, and Electropylon Driver<\/strong> are often cited as the best weapons in Returnal due to their versatility and damage output. Individual preferences may differ.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_What_is_the_best_weapon_early_in_Returnal\"><\/span>6. What is the best weapon early in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>Spitmaw Blaster<\/strong> is considered a great weapon for early outings in Returnal, particularly against Phrike. However, its effectiveness diminishes against tougher enemies that require more range.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_What_is_the_first_gun_in_Returnal\"><\/span>7. What is the first gun in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The first gun you start with is the <strong>Sidearm SD-M8<\/strong>. It is your standard weapon throughout the game and will be used the most.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_What_is_the_best_build_in_Returnal\"><\/span>8. What is the best build in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The best build in Returnal usually involves a combination of effective weapons like the <strong>Electropylon Driver, Thermogenic Launcher, Hollowseeker, Dreadbound, Coilspine Shredder, and Tachyomatic Carbine<\/strong> combined with specific traits that synergize with the player\u2019s strategy.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Can_you_get_stronger_in_Returnal\"><\/span>9. Can you get stronger in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Yes, you can get stronger<\/strong> in Returnal through permanent upgrades to Selene\u2019s suit, powerful weapons, and stat boosts found during each cycle. The game allows for a gradual increase in power that will help you overcome the challenges.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_How_many_times_can_you_sleep_in_Returnal\"><\/span>10. How many times can you sleep in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>After a patch, Selene can now only sleep <strong>one time per cycle<\/strong> in Helios. Sleeping gives a slight health boost.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_How_long_does_it_take_to_beat_Returnal\"><\/span>11. How long does it take to beat Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The main objective of Returnal takes about <strong>19 hours<\/strong> to complete. Achieving 100% completion can take around <strong>59 hours<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_What_percentage_of_players_have_beaten_Returnal\"><\/span>12. What percentage of players have beaten Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Only <strong>21% of players<\/strong> have reportedly beaten the final boss in Returnal, demonstrating its demanding nature.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Is_Returnal_harder_than_Demons_Souls\"><\/span>13. Is Returnal harder than Demon&#8217;s Souls?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Returnal is often cited to be <strong>comparable in difficulty<\/strong> to Demon&#8217;s Souls, with its rigid rules surrounding progression and unforgiving roguelike elements.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_What_is_permanent_progression_in_Returnal\"><\/span>14. What is permanent progression in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Permanent progression in Returnal includes the <strong>Hermes Key<\/strong>, which enables fast travel points and grappling, and permanent suit upgrades, weapons, and certain items that will carry over between cycles.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_What_is_the_secret_ending_in_Returnal\"><\/span>15. What is the secret ending in Returnal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The secret ending in Returnal is achieved by completing Act 3 and collecting all the Sunface Fragments. It involves Selene&#8217;s mother and reveals a deeper connection between Selene and the accident that was seen at the beginning of the game.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is the Hardest Level in Returnal? A Deep Dive into Atropos&#8217; Toughest Biome The question of Returnal\u2019s most challenging level is a hotly debated topic among players who have braved the unforgiving world of Atropos. While opinions vary based on individual playstyles and experiences, a strong consensus points toward the Fractured Wastes (Biome 3) &#8230; <a title=\"What is the hardest level in Returnal?\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-is-the-hardest-level-in-returnal\/\" aria-label=\"More on What is the hardest level in Returnal?\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-28049","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28049","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=28049"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28049\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=28049"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=28049"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=28049"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}