What are the pros of Risk of Rain Returns?

Deeply satisfying mechanics and esoteric power scaling that reward experimentation.. Exceptional soundtrack and atmospheric lore that enhance the immersion.. Diverse roster of unique characters, each offering a distinct playstyle.. Excellent 2D alternative for fans who prefer controller-based gameplay over 3D aiming.. Substantial content updates and visual improvements over the original 2013 version..

What are the cons of Risk of Rain Returns?

Frequent 'disconnected from host' errors and stability issues in multiplayer modes.. Slow progression and unlock rates, particularly frustrating for local co-op players.. High difficulty spikes that can feel unrewarding or overly punishing for newer players.. Gameplay loops can occasionally devolve into repetitive kiting or 'walking in circles.'. Lack of certain quality-of-life features, such as a hotkey for adjusting the zoom level..

Risk of Rain Returns

Carefully designed, beautifully remastered, and loaded with new ways to play—Risk of Rain is back and better than ever! Dive into the iconic roguelike full of unique loot combinations, enhanced with new Survivors, overhauled multiplayer, fan favorite content from Risk of Rain 2, and more!

90%

Very Positive

DeveloperHopoo Games

Publishers2K, Gearbox Publishing

Release DateNov 8, 2023

-50%

$14.99$7.49

Peak Players41.8K

Controllerfull

PlatformsWindows

Action

AI Review Summary

Risk of Rain Returns is a highly polished 2D remaster that revitalizes the original roguelite's esoteric power scaling and atmospheric world-building. While it is praised for its unique character roster and exceptional soundtrack, some players find the difficulty curve punishing and the multiplayer experience marred by connectivity issues.

Pros

Deeply satisfying mechanics and esoteric power scaling that reward experimentation.95%
Exceptional soundtrack and atmospheric lore that enhance the immersion.90%
Diverse roster of unique characters, each offering a distinct playstyle.85%
Excellent 2D alternative for fans who prefer controller-based gameplay over 3D aiming.80%
Substantial content updates and visual improvements over the original 2013 version.75%

Cons

Frequent 'disconnected from host' errors and stability issues in multiplayer modes.80%
Slow progression and unlock rates, particularly frustrating for local co-op players.75%
High difficulty spikes that can feel unrewarding or overly punishing for newer players.70%
Gameplay loops can occasionally devolve into repetitive kiting or 'walking in circles.'60%
Lack of certain quality-of-life features, such as a hotkey for adjusting the zoom level.40%

Notable Mentions

Highly recommended for fans of the Risk of Rain universe who prefer side-scrolling action over 3D shooters.
Local co-op is available but noted for having significantly slower progression than solo play.
Some long-time fans noted the absence of specific iconic tracks like 'The Rain Formerly Known as Purple.'

Confidence: 60%

Based on the 94 most relevant reviewsGenerated on Aug 28, 2026

Game Vitals

Live snapshot

Player Activity

Current peak

258

Peak · last 90 days

270

All-time peak

41.8K

Price

Current price

$14.99$7.49-50%

Lowest tracked

$7.49since Feb 7, 2026

Review Sentiment

Launch week

—

Last 30 days

100%

All-time positive

90%

Review Statistics

Total Reviews28.7K

Positive: 25.8K (90%)Negative: 2.9K (10%)

Reviews from Steam Deck

Dev Response Rate

26h

Avg Playtime at Review

67%

Credible Reviews