Returnal Achievement Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive Returnal Achievement Guide! If you're ready to conquer Atropos and secure every elusive trophy, you're in the right place. This guide is designed to help you navigate the intricate world of Returnal and master its most challenging achievements. We'll cover everything from a General Achievement Walkthrough to specific trophies like Helios, Cryptic Messages, Failed Escape, and the haunting Sins of the Mother. Each section is packed with tips, tricks, and detailed strategies to ensure your success. Get ready to transform your Returnal experience from daunting to triumphant!

General Achievement Walkthrough

Welcome to the Returnal Achievement Guide! Whether you're a hardcore gamer or just dipping your toes into rogue-like games, this walkthrough will guide you through the essential achievements in the game.

1. Eternal Return

Description: Reconstruct your first "Death" and Return

How to Unlock: This one is a no-brainer. After Selene's first death, you'll automatically unlock this achievement when she resurrects at the crash site.

2. Atropian Survival

Description: Learn the basics of survival on the hostile planet of Atropos.

How to Unlock: Work through the early-game tutorial activities. Engage with the environment, take on enemies, and gather new weapons. It’s pretty straightforward and part of the natural progression.

3. Ascension

Description: Achieve Weapon Proficiency level 30.

How to Unlock: Weapon Proficiency increases as you play through each cycle. Collect Calibrators and take down enemies to boost your proficiency level. Focus on consistency, and you'll hit level 30 soon enough.

4. In-Field Training

Description: Complete a daily challenge in Simulation Mode.

How to Unlock: You'll need to reach the crashed ship and set up the simulation. These are time-limited and can be accessed through the Helios ship. Completing this challenge once will unlock this achievement.

5. Hardened Shell

Description: Collect 200% of your health's max cap.

How to Unlock: This involves upgrading and maximizing your health. You'll need to find Silphium Resin scattered across the biomes. Prioritize collecting Resins and utilize healing resources wisely. Dodging effectively and avoiding damage helps maintain high health for this achievement.

6. Adapting to Circumstance

Description: Achieve a hit-streak of 30 kills.

How to Unlock: Switch to powerful weapons with a good range (like the Tachyomatic Carbine) and aim for weaker enemies to stack up kills quickly. Biomes with more minor enemies are excellent spots for this.

7. Cryptic Messages

Description: Scan a Xenoglyph.

How to Unlock: Xenoglyphs are scattered around the biomes and easy to spot thanks to their distinct glowing symbols. Approach and interact with them to scan.

8. Surgical Precision

Description: Finish a full biome without taking damage.

How to Unlock: Easiest in the first biome, Overgrown Ruins. Focus on dodging, learn enemy patterns, and stay mobile while firing. This can be tough, so practice makes perfect.

9. Visions of the Past

Description: Complete one House sequence.

How to Unlock: The house is a crucial part of Selene's story. The first time you encounter and enter the house, you’ll complete a sequence that will unlock this achievement. Look out for key items that prompt these hallucinations/events.

10. Shadow of the Colossus

Description: Defeat Phrike.

How to Unlock: Phrike is the first boss in Overgrown Ruins. It's a significant milestone marking the transition from early game to mid-game. Phrike’s attack patterns are repetitive, making it easier to learn and adapt.

11. Silence the Echoes

Description: Defeat all main bosses.

How to Unlock: Work through each biome and take down each biome boss. Learning their unique patterns and utilizing the best weapons you’ve collected will help you across all boss battles.

12. The Cycle Breaker

Description: Unlock the secret ending.

How to Unlock: To get the secret ending, you need to collect six Sunface Fragments found across various biomes after completing the game once. Retrace your steps through all the biomes and complete additional House sequences.

Tips for Boosting Your Achievement Hunt

• Explore Thoroughly: Don’t rush. Explore each area, open every chest, and scan every object.
• Upgrade Wisely: Balance health upgrades with weapon proficiency upgrades.
• Consistency is Key: Practice enemy patterns, and keep your dodge-timing sharp.
• Experiment with Weapons: Find which weapons and modifications suit your playstyle.
• Stay Calm: Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Returnal’s procedural generation means no two runs are the same, offering new opportunities each cycle.

Mastering these core achievements will set you on the right path to conquering Returnal! Dive deep into Atropos, and enjoy every intense moment of survival and discovery.

Good luck, and may the cycles favor you!

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Helios

Helios isn't just your spaceship in Returnal--it's also your primary hub and the key to your journey across Atropos. Think of Helios as your safe zone, where you can breathe and prepare before heading back into that alien world. Let's break down everything you need to know about Helios to make the most out of your time there.

Understanding Helios

When Selene, the game's main character, crashes on Atropos, Helios is the first place you’ll get familiar with. It's here that you’ll return every time you die (which, spoiler alert, will happen a lot). Helios serves as your reset point, but it’s much more than that.

Key Features Inside Helios

Helios is your prep space, so spend a moment to explore and understand what it offers:

1. Cthonos Device - This artifact-awarding machine is at the center of Helios. For every 100 Obolites you collect (the game's currency), you can use the Cthonos Device to gain a new item or weapon upgrade. This machine can be a game-changer, so make sure to use it whenever you can afford to.

2. Databanks and Logs - As you progress, you’ll collect various logs and databanks that provide background on the story and give you more context about the world you’re exploring. These are automatically uploaded to the computer inside Helios, so check here frequently to piece together the mysteries of Atropos.

3. Health Pod - Need a quick health check? There’s a health pod inside Helios that provides a full scan and heals you up. It’s a quick way to ensure you start every run with your health at maximum.

4. Television and Audio Logs - A TV inside plays strange, cryptic messages that deepen the story's mystery. Nearby, you can listen to audio logs that shed light on Selene’s thoughts and experiences. Paying attention to these can help you understand the storyline better and might even give you hints on what’s coming up next.

Settings and Adjustments

Before rushing out the door guns blazing, take time to tweak your settings in Helios:

• Suit Diagnostics - Check your current status, including health, weapon proficiency, and any artifacts you’ve collected.
• Rest - Sometimes, you'll find Selene sitting next to her bed in Helios. This isn't just for show. If you interact with the bed, it triggers dream sequences that can fill in more story details. Plus, it gives Selene a brief moment of respite.

Using Helios Strategically

1. Preparation is Key - Each time you respawn, don’t just sprint back into action. Spend a few minutes in Helios to think about what went wrong in your last run and what you can do differently. Did you forget to use a powerful item? Were you low on health frequently?

2. Upgrades and Purchases - Check the Cthonos Device and your data logs to ensure you’re making the most of every run. Sometimes replaying old logs can remind you of useful tips or strategies.

3. Experiment with Loadouts - Use Helios as your testing ground. Try out different weapon combinations or strategies and see how they feel. Rotating your gear can keep the game fresh and might give you the edge you need.

Conclusion

Helios is way more than just a starting point in Returnal. Understanding and utilizing everything it offers can significantly improve your gameplay and help you unravel the secrets of Atropos. Before you dash out into the hostile world, make sure Helios has everything you need for your next run. Use this haven wisely, and you'll be better prepared to tackle whatever comes your way.

Cryptic Messages

In Returnal, one of the many mysteries you'll encounter are the Cryptic Messages scattered around Atropos. These messages are essential for unraveling the story, and some even unlock valuable achievements. Let's dive into everything you need to know about these enigmatic writings.

What are Cryptic Messages?

Cryptic Messages are strange, glowing texts you'll find throughout the various biomes of Atropos. They are inscribed on walls and other surfaces, often tied to the lore of the alien world. Reading these messages provides more context about the storyline and helps you understand Selene’s journey.

How to Find Cryptic Messages

Locating Cryptic Messages can be tricky, but a keen eye and exploration are the keys:

1. Explore All Areas: Don't just stick to the main paths. Many messages are hidden away in less obvious places. Check all nooks and crannies, side rooms, and even behind objects.
2. Use Your Scanner: Keep an eye out for the scan icon that appears on your HUD. When close enough, the scanner will help you locate nearby messages.
3. Replay Biomes: Since Returnal is a roguelike, biomes change each time you play. Revisit areas to find any messages you might have missed.

Types of Messages

There are a couple of types of Cryptic Messages you’ll encounter:

1. Progenitor Translations: These seem to be from an ancient race and usually contain lore about Atropos and its history.
2. Scout Logs: These messages often belong to Selene herself, from previous cycles. They reveal more about her past experiences in the game and sometimes, they might even offer hints about how to progress.

Achievements Tied to Messages

Reading the Cryptic Messages can unlock specific achievements. Here’s a quick rundown on what to focus on:

1. "Cryptic Translator" Achievement: For this achievement, you’ll need to decode a set number of messages. Keep track of how many you’ve read in the game’s menu under the 'Archives' section.
2. "Returnal Archivist" Achievement: This requires you to find all lore-related collectibles, including every Cryptic Message. To get this one, you'll need a thorough sweep of all biomes.

Tips for Collecting Messages

• Take Notes: Keep a simple log of where you find each message, especially if you’re playing on multiple cycles. This helps in avoiding areas you’ve already checked.
• Upgrade Your Equipment: Certain messages are only accessible with specific equipment upgrades. Make sure to revisit earlier areas with new gear.
• Be Patient: Sometimes, messages might appear in randomized rooms. Don't stress if you can't find them right away. Keep exploring and they will turn up.

Conclusion

Cryptic Messages in Returnal play a pivotal role in understanding the deeper narrative of the game. By diligently searching for these hidden texts, you'll not only unlock achievements but also gain a richer appreciation for Selene's story and the mysterious world of Atropos. So, take your time exploring each area and enjoy piecing together the fragments of Returnal’s compelling narrative. Happy hunting!

Failed Escape

In Returnal, the "Failed Escape" sequence is one of the game's pivotal moments that reveals more about Selene's haunting journey through Atropos. Understanding this segment can help unravel the story and guide you through the relentless cycles of combat and mystery. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you navigate this crucial part of the game.

The Setting

The "Failed Escape" sequence typically triggers after you reach certain milestones or complete specific biomes. You’ll know you’re entering this sequence when you find yourself in a first-person perspective within a dimly lit house. Unlike the usual fast-paced, frenetic gameplay, this segment slows things down and plunges you into a psychological horror atmosphere.

Navigating the House

• Entry Hall: You start at the front door. You can't leave through it, so turn around and head into the hall. Make sure to take in the eerie environment - there are lots of subtle clues around.

• Living Room: The living room is on the right. Here, you might find some personal items like photographs and journals. These items often hint at Selene’s past and her connection to the planet Atropos. Pay close attention to the details.

• Kitchen: Continue straight from the entry hall and you’ll reach the kitchen. There are often audio logs here that you can listen to, providing further backstory.

• Stairs: Head up the stairs at the end of the hall. There's usually a strong sense of dread building as you climb, so be ready for some spine-chilling moments.

Key Moments

• First Door on the Left: This door typically leads to Selene's old bedroom. You might find more personal items and childhood memories here. Interact with everything you can.

• Final Room: The last room at the end of the hall is generally the most significant. This room usually contains major story revelations and can sometimes trigger events that propel Selene further into her journey.

Tips for Getting Through "Failed Escape"

• Stay Calm: The "Failed Escape" can be unnerving, but remember, nothing in this sequence can harm you directly. It's all about narrative.

• Keep Notes: If you're deeply invested in the story, keep a notebook handy. Jotting down clues from the environment can help piece together Selene’s past and motivations.

• Explore Everything: Don't rush through this sequence. Explore every nook and cranny, listen to all audio logs, and read all text. The more you engage, the clearer the story becomes.

Unlocking the Achievement

Completing the "Failed Escape" sequence not only provides valuable story context, but it also rewards you with an achievement. To ensure you unlock it:

1. Finish the Sequence: Play through the entire "Failed Escape" sequence without interruption.
2. Interact with Key Items: Make sure to inspect all noticeable items and listen to audio logs.
3. Trigger Story Moments: Ensure you trigger all the key story moments in each room by interacting with everything.

By thoroughly engaging with the "Failed Escape" sequence, you’ll gain deeper insights into the game's lore and Selene's personal story, all while snagging a neat achievement.

Good luck, Astronaut. Embrace the mysteries of Atropos and uncover the truth hidden within. Happy gaming

Sins of the Mother

In Returnal, one of the more cryptic and emotional parts of the game is the "Sins of the Mother" segment. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate this intense experience.

Getting There

To unlock the "Sins of the Mother" scene, you need to progress through Act 3, which means you should have already completed the main story. If you’ve reached the end of Act 2 and seen credits roll, you’re on the right track. Now get ready for some serious exploration!

Collect All Sunface Fragments

To access the final house sequence and unlock the "Sins of the Mother" trophy, you must collect six Sunface Fragments. These fragments are scattered across each biome. They can be tough to find, but here’s a quick rundown:

• Overgrown Ruins (Biome 1): Look for it in the side rooms.
• Crimson Wastes (Biome 2): Often located in high or hard-to-reach places, use your grappling hooks.
• Derelict Citadel (Biome 3): Check near the high columns and secret rooms.
• Echoing Ruins (Biome 4): Useful to have good traversal items for hard-to-get places.
• Fractured Wastes (Biome 5): Explore caves and hidden paths.
• Abyssal Scar (Biome 6): Deep underwater areas often hide it.

Return to the House

With all six Sunface Fragments collected, the next step is to head back to the house. The house is located in the Overgrown Ruins (Biome 1). Remember, this place can often feel pretty spooky!

Completing the Sequence

Once you’re inside the house for the final sequence, the game takes control. You’ll witness Selene as she ventures through the house, facing her past. Pay close attention to the story unfolding - it’s a major revelation.

The Story Explained (Spoilers!)

In this final house sequence, Selene confronts deeply personal and challenging truths about her relationship with her mother. You'll learn more about their strained relationship--the choices Selene made, her regrets, and how these influence her journey. This sequence stitches together narrative threads, giving much-needed context and clarity to her recurring cycle on Atropos.

Tips

• Explore Thoroughly: Some fragments are well hidden; don’t rush through the biomes.
• Use Your Abilities: Utilize all traversal tools, like grapples and jumps, to reach tricky locations.
• Watch for Hints: Look for visual cues--the game often subtly hints where the fragments might be.

Trophy Unlocked: Sins of the Mother

Unlocking and witnessing "Sins of the Mother" not only gives you deeper insight into Selene’s psyche but also nets you the elusive trophy of the same name. It’s a hefty bit of lore to digest but incredibly rewarding for those following Selene’s tragic story.

That’s all there is for peeling back the layers of the "Sins of the Mother." Stay vigilant, explore deeply, and immerse yourself in the story to fully experience what Returnal has to offer. Happy hunting!