Housemarque Returnal: Ascension (PS5)

The Ascension update maintains Returnal's technical excellence while adding seamless new features. The cooperative implementation is particularly impressive, with virtually no performance impact even during the most chaotic firefights. Both players experience the same stunning visual fidelity, atmospheric effects, and buttery-smooth 60fps gameplay that made the original shine.

The Tower of Sisyphus mode introduces procedurally generated challenges across multiple phases, each with increasing difficulty. The mode perfectly captures Returnal's core combat loop while adding new wrinkles through phase modifiers and scoring mechanics. The ascending challenge creates a compelling "one more run" drive that fits naturally with the base game's roguelike structure.

From a user experience perspective, joining co-op sessions is straightforward through either quick match or friend invites. The host maintains story progression while both players earn weapons and upgrades. Smart design choices like shared items and revive mechanics encourage teamwork without making the game too easy. The scoring system in Tower mode adds welcome competitive elements through global leaderboards.

The cooperative features are thoughtfully balanced to maintain challenge while opening up new strategic possibilities. Players can revive fallen allies but must risk exposure during lengthy revival animations. Resource sharing and complementary loadouts become crucial considerations. The Tower mode's scoring multipliers and phase modifiers create interesting risk-reward decisions that add depth to the core gameplay loop.