returnal trophy guide
Returnal Trophy Guide: A Comprehensive Roadmap (Updated 12/22/2025)
Embark on a challenging journey! This guide details all 31 Returnal trophies, including the elusive Platinum (“Hyperion”), estimated at a 53-hour completion time.
Welcome, Selene, to a demanding hunt! Returnal’s trophy list presents a unique challenge, blending roguelike elements with intense bullet-hell combat. Achieving 100% completion requires dedication, skill, and a healthy dose of patience; The game features a total of 31 trophies – one Platinum, seven Gold, five Silver, and eighteen Bronze – each demanding specific accomplishments within the shifting landscapes of Atropos.
The Platinum trophy, “Hyperion,” is notoriously difficult, currently boasting a completion rate of only 1.9% as of today, December 22nd, 2025. This rarity stems from the game’s unpredictable RNG and universal difficulty settings. Mastering traversal tools and understanding the story’s cyclical nature are crucial for success. Prepare for multiple cycles and relentless encounters!
Overall Trophy Difficulty & Completion Rate
Prepare for a significant challenge. Returnal’s trophy difficulty is considered high, largely due to its roguelike structure and demanding combat. While a 2.5% platinum rate might seem low, it’s actually quite respectable compared to other challenging titles. A 20% completion rate for any trophy is considered impressive, especially within a rogue-like game.
Currently, only 1.9% of players have unlocked the coveted Platinum trophy, “Hyperion,” highlighting its rarity. Completion time averages around 53 hours, but can vary wildly depending on skill, RNG luck, and chosen difficulty. Universal difficulty and unpredictable collectible spawns contribute to this variability. Success requires mastering the game’s mechanics and embracing the cycle of death and rebirth.
Trophy List Overview (31 Trophies)
The path to Platinum is paved with 31 challenges! Returnal features a diverse trophy list, categorized by rarity and difficulty. Players will encounter 1 Platinum trophy (“Hyperion”), representing full completion. Seven Gold trophies reward significant story progression and boss defeats. Five Silver trophies acknowledge mastery of core gameplay elements. The bulk of the list comprises 18 Bronze trophies, earned through smaller achievements and exploration.
Trophies range from straightforward story objectives to incredibly demanding combat feats, like defeating bosses without taking damage. Expect challenges involving parasite eradication, xenotech scanning, and efficient adrenaline usage. The list encourages thorough exploration and mastery of Returnal’s intricate systems.
Platinum Trophy: “Hyperion”
“Hyperion” – the ultimate testament to skill and perseverance! Unlocking this Platinum trophy signifies complete mastery of Returnal. It demands dedication, requiring players to overcome all challenges the game throws their way. With a remarkably low 1.9% completion rate, it’s one of the PlayStation 5’s most difficult Platinum trophies to obtain.
Expect a lengthy journey, averaging around 53 hours, influenced by RNG and universal difficulty settings. Achieving “Hyperion” necessitates completing the storyline, acquiring all traversal tools, and conquering formidable bosses like Aphelion. Prepare for numerous cycles, strategic resource management, and unwavering determination!
Gold Trophies (7 Total)
Seven gleaming Gold trophies await those who demonstrate exceptional prowess in Returnal! These achievements represent significant milestones, pushing players beyond basic completion. Expect challenges centered around combat mastery, exploration, and story progression. Obtaining these trophies requires consistent performance and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics.
Gold trophies include conquering specific bosses without taking damage (“Ruthless”), defeating the challenging Nemesis, and fully scanning Xenotech (“Xeno-Archaeologist”). Progressing through multiple story cycles and effectively utilizing Adrenaline are also key components. Prepare for intense battles and meticulous exploration to earn these prestigious rewards!
Silver Trophies (5 Total)
Five Silver trophies represent a commendable level of skill and dedication in Returnal! These achievements build upon the foundations laid by the Bronze trophies, demanding more consistent performance and strategic thinking. Expect challenges that test your adaptability and resource management skills within the ever-shifting environments.
Silver trophies often involve defeating multiple parasites (“Parasite Hunter”), acquiring essential traversal tools, and reaching notable corruption levels (“Returnal Veteran”). Mastering the game’s combat system and understanding enemy patterns are crucial for success. These trophies signify a growing mastery of Returnal’s core gameplay loops and a commitment to overcoming its challenges.
Bronze Trophies (18 Total)
The foundation of your trophy journey begins with 18 Bronze trophies in Returnal! These represent initial milestones, introducing you to the game’s mechanics and world. Expect to earn them through basic actions like scanning Xenotech (“Xeno-Archaeologist”), utilizing adrenaline effectively (“Adrenaline Rush”), and discovering hidden logs (“Secrets Within Secrets”).
Many Bronze trophies are story-related, rewarding progression through the cycles. Others require defeating specific enemy types or completing early-game objectives. While individually straightforward, collecting all 18 demands exploration and engagement with Returnal’s core systems. They serve as stepping stones, preparing you for the greater challenges ahead and unlocking further content.
Story Progression & Essential Trophies
Unravel Selene’s mystery! Completing multiple cycles and acquiring traversal tools are vital for story progression and unlocking key trophies in Returnal.
Completing the Storyline – Multiple Cycles
The narrative unfolds across repeated cycles. Returnal’s story isn’t a single playthrough; expect to die and restart, each time revealing more of Selene’s past and the planet Atropos’ secrets. The first cycle completion, earning “Cold, Dark, and Empty,” is crucial, but it’s merely the beginning.
Progress hinges on unlocking traversal tools – grappling hook, dash, and float – which grant access to new areas and story beats. Difficulty and RNG heavily influence cycle length; some may finish in one attempt, others after numerous boss retries. Expect a blend of combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving as you piece together the fragmented narrative. Persistent progress with tools eases subsequent cycles, but mastery of combat remains paramount.
Acquiring Traversal Tools & Their Impact
Traversal tools are key to progression. Obtaining the grappling hook, dash, and float abilities fundamentally alters Returnal’s gameplay and unlocks new areas. These aren’t simply movement upgrades; they’re essential for accessing previously unreachable story segments and collectibles.
Each tool opens up new combat possibilities and exploration routes, reducing reliance on pure gunplay. The grappling hook allows for verticality, the dash provides crucial invulnerability frames, and the float extends aerial maneuverability. Persistent progress means these tools remain unlocked across cycles, streamlining future runs. Mastering their use is vital for efficient completion and tackling challenging encounters, significantly impacting your platinum run.
“Cold, Dark, and Empty” ⎼ First Cycle Completion
The first cycle is a significant hurdle. Earning the “Cold, Dark, and Empty” trophy requires completing the storyline for the first time, a feat that can vary wildly in difficulty. Player experience ranges from single attempts to numerous deaths against early bosses, highlighting the game’s challenging nature.
This initial completion unlocks crucial story elements and sets the stage for subsequent cycles. Expect a demanding experience focused on learning enemy patterns and mastering Selene’s abilities. Remember, permanent progression with traversal tools eases future runs. Don’t be discouraged by repeated failures; persistence is key to overcoming this initial obstacle and progressing towards platinum.
Combat & Challenge-Based Trophies
Test your skills! These trophies demand mastery of Returnal’s intense combat, including boss battles, parasite elimination, and effective adrenaline usage.
“Adrenaline Rush” ⏤ Using Adrenaline Effectively
Maximize your combat potential! The “Adrenaline Rush” trophy requires skillful utilization of the Adrenaline system. Building and maintaining high Adrenaline levels is crucial for unlocking powerful abilities and increasing damage output during intense encounters.
Focus on aggressive play, consistently dealing damage to enemies to fill the Adrenaline meter. Mastering the timing of dodges and shots is key to sustaining Adrenaline without taking damage. Remember that certain artifacts and traits can significantly enhance Adrenaline gain and effects. Experiment with different builds to find a playstyle that maximizes your Adrenaline efficiency. Don’t underestimate the power of Alt-Fire modes for quickly building Adrenaline during challenging fights!
“Parasite Hunter” ⎼ Defeating Parasites
Become a master of biological warfare! The “Parasite Hunter” trophy challenges you to effectively combat the parasitic creatures infesting Atropos. These enemies present a unique threat, often attaching themselves to Selene and altering her abilities – sometimes for better, often for worse.
Prioritize identifying and eliminating parasites quickly, as their effects can drastically change your combat strategy. Utilize weapons and traits that excel at close-quarters combat, as parasites often require direct engagement. Understanding parasite weaknesses and adapting your approach is vital. Remember, some parasites offer temporary benefits, but the long-term risks usually outweigh the rewards. Mastering parasite management is key to survival!
“Xeno-Archaeologist” ⎼ Scanning Xenotech
Uncover the secrets of an alien civilization! The “Xeno-Archaeologist” trophy requires diligent exploration and scanning of Xenotech artifacts scattered throughout Atropos. These remnants of a long-lost race provide crucial insights into the planet’s history and the cyclical nature of Selene’s predicament.
Equip the Scanner and thoroughly investigate any unusual structures or objects you encounter. Xenotech often appears as glowing, interactive elements within the environment. Scanning these artifacts unlocks lore entries and contributes towards trophy progression. Prioritize scanning during each cycle, as locations and items are randomized. A keen eye and a methodical approach are essential for becoming a true Xeno-Archaeologist!
“Ruthless” ⎼ Defeating Bosses Without Getting Hit
Demonstrate ultimate skill and precision! The “Ruthless” trophy is arguably one of Returnal’s most demanding challenges, requiring players to defeat all major bosses – including Nemesis and Aphelion – without sustaining any damage. This demands mastery of Selene’s movement, weapon proficiency, and a deep understanding of each boss’s attack patterns.
Prioritize learning boss tells and utilizing the dodge mechanic effectively. Consider employing weapons and artifacts that enhance survivability, such as those providing shields or healing. Patience and persistence are key; expect numerous attempts before achieving a flawless victory. This trophy truly separates the casual players from the dedicated Returnal veterans!
“Nemesis” ⏤ Defeating Nemesis
Prepare for a relentless battle! The “Nemesis” trophy signifies conquering one of Returnal’s most formidable foes. This boss encounter tests your reflexes, adaptability, and resource management skills. Nemesis employs a diverse range of attacks, including projectiles, melee strikes, and area-of-effect abilities, demanding constant vigilance.
Prioritize learning Nemesis’s attack patterns and identifying safe windows for damage. Utilize the environment to your advantage, seeking cover when necessary. Experiment with different weapon combinations and artifacts to maximize your damage output. Don’t be discouraged by initial failures; persistence and strategic adjustments are crucial for claiming this hard-earned trophy.
“Hyperion” ⎼ Defeating Aphelion
The ultimate challenge awaits! Securing the “Hyperion” trophy demands defeating Aphelion, the final boss of Returnal, and unlocking the Platinum. This climactic battle represents the culmination of your skills and perseverance. Aphelion’s attacks are complex and devastating, requiring precise timing and strategic positioning.
Mastering dodging and utilizing your most powerful weaponry are essential. Understanding Aphelion’s phases and adapting your strategy accordingly is key to success. Expect a prolonged and intense fight; patience and focus are paramount. This trophy signifies true mastery of Returnal’s challenging gameplay loop, a testament to your dedication.
Collectibles & Exploration Trophies
Uncover hidden lore! These trophies reward thorough exploration, demanding you locate hidden logs and artifacts scattered throughout Atropos, enriching your Returnal experience.
“Secrets Within Secrets” ⎼ Finding Hidden Logs
Delving into Selene’s Past: The “Secrets Within Secrets” trophy requires locating all hidden logs throughout the various biomes of Atropos. These logs aren’t simply lying in plain sight; they demand meticulous exploration and a keen eye for detail. Expect to thoroughly scan environments, often venturing off the beaten path and into obscure corners.
Many logs are cleverly concealed, requiring players to interact with specific objects or trigger environmental events to reveal their location. Remember that the procedural generation of the world means log locations will differ with each cycle. Utilizing online resources and community guides can be incredibly helpful, but discovering them independently offers a more rewarding experience. These logs provide crucial insights into Selene’s backstory and the mysteries surrounding the planet, adding depth to the narrative.
“Lost and Found” ⎼ Collecting Artifacts
Unearthing Atropos’ Relics: The “Lost and Found” trophy challenges players to collect all artifacts scattered across the shifting landscapes of Atropos. These aren’t typical collectibles; artifacts provide permanent upgrades and enhance Selene’s abilities, offering a tangible benefit beyond trophy completion. Their randomized spawn locations, influenced by the game’s rogue-like nature, necessitate multiple cycles and diligent searching.
Artifacts can be found hidden within chests, awarded after defeating challenging enemies, or discovered in secluded areas. Prioritizing exploration and utilizing scanning abilities are crucial for uncovering these valuable items. Remember that universal difficulty and RNG elements impact their availability. Successfully collecting all artifacts significantly improves your chances of surviving longer runs and ultimately achieving Platinum completion.
“Returnal Veteran” ⎼ Reaching High Corruption Levels
Embracing the Cycle’s Decay: The “Returnal Veteran” trophy demands resilience and mastery of the game’s core mechanics. It requires players to reach Corruption Level 5, a testament to enduring numerous cycles and overcoming increasingly difficult challenges. Corruption directly impacts enemy aggression, resource scarcity, and the overall intensity of each run.
Successfully navigating higher Corruption levels necessitates strategic decision-making, efficient resource management, and skillful combat. Utilizing artifacts and temporary upgrades becomes paramount for survival. Remember, RNG plays a significant role in determining the quality of available resources. Reaching Corruption 5 demonstrates a deep understanding of Returnal’s systems and a commitment to pushing your limits.
Advanced Gameplay & Rare Trophies
Mastering the intricacies! These trophies demand exceptional skill, luck, and a thorough understanding of Returnal’s systems, boasting a low completion rate.
“All’s Well That Ends Well” ⎼ Completing a Cycle Without Using Resupply
A true test of self-sufficiency! This incredibly challenging trophy requires completing an entire cycle – from crash landing to defeating the final boss – without utilizing a single Resupply unit. This means no healing, no ammo refills, and no parasite removal via consumables.
Preparation is paramount. Focus on building a powerful, synergistic build early on, prioritizing artifacts and traits that enhance damage output and survivability. Mastering Selene’s dodge mechanic and understanding enemy attack patterns are crucial. Resource management becomes exceptionally important; carefully consider which upgrades to take and avoid unnecessary risks.
Luck plays a role, as favorable item spawns can significantly ease the difficulty. Be prepared for multiple attempts, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. This trophy is a badge of honor for dedicated Returnal players!
“Celestial Navigation” ⏤ Using All Teleporters
Explore every corner of Atropos! This trophy demands thorough exploration of the game’s interconnected biomes. You must activate and utilize every single teleporter found throughout multiple cycles. It’s not enough to simply find them; you need to step through each one to progress and unlock the achievement.
This encourages players to deviate from direct paths to the boss and delve into hidden areas. Pay close attention to the map and actively seek out unexplored rooms. Remember that teleporters often lead to challenging encounters, so be prepared for a fight.
Completing this trophy showcases a comprehensive understanding of Atropos’s layout and a dedication to uncovering its secrets. It’s a testament to your navigational skills!
“Ultra Rare Trophy Breakdown” ⎼ Understanding the 1.9% Completion Rate
Prepare for a monumental challenge! The incredibly low 1.9% completion rate for a Returnal trophy signifies extreme difficulty. This stems from the game’s inherent roguelike nature, coupled with unpredictable RNG and universal difficulty settings. Success isn’t solely about skill; luck plays a significant role in obtaining favorable item spawns and parasite combinations.
Players achieving this feat demonstrate exceptional perseverance, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics. Expect numerous failed attempts and the need to master various weapon builds. It requires optimizing runs for efficiency and potentially utilizing external resources.
Don’t be discouraged by the statistic; it represents a true test of skill and dedication!
Tips & Tricks for Platinum Completion
Maximize efficiency! Utilize YouTube guides, optimize runs, and manage RNG effectively to conquer Returnal’s unpredictable challenges and achieve Platinum success.
Optimizing Runs for Efficiency
Strategic prioritization is key. Focus on acquiring traversal tools early, as permanent progression significantly eases subsequent cycles. Mastering weapon proficiency and parasite synergies drastically improves combat effectiveness, reducing run times.
Efficiently scan Xenotech to unlock crucial artifacts and consumables. Prioritize completing daily challenges for bonus rewards. Remember, Returnal’s universal difficulty and RNG demand adaptability; learn enemy patterns and exploit weaknesses.
Don’t hesitate to utilize the YouTube resources available – experienced players share valuable strategies and build recommendations. Understanding item synergies and map layouts will minimize wasted time and maximize your chances of a swift Platinum run.
Utilizing YouTube Resources & Guides
Leverage community expertise! Numerous YouTube channels offer comprehensive Returnal guides, showcasing optimal builds, boss strategies, and efficient route planning. These resources are invaluable for understanding complex mechanics and overcoming challenging encounters.
Search for videos detailing specific trophy requirements, like “Ruthless” boss fights or “All’s Well That Ends Well” cycle completions. Watch experienced players navigate the Biome, identifying key item locations and hidden secrets.
Don’t underestimate the power of visual learning; observing gameplay can accelerate your understanding of the game’s intricacies. Utilize these guides to refine your skills and optimize your Platinum run, reducing frustration and maximizing efficiency.
Managing RNG & Universal Difficulty
Embrace adaptability! Returnal’s roguelike nature introduces significant RNG (Random Number Generation) in item spawns and Biome layouts. Mastering adaptability is crucial for Platinum success. Universal Difficulty further amplifies the challenge, demanding consistent performance.
Accept that not every run will be ideal; focus on maximizing opportunities with the resources available. Learn to identify strong item synergies and prioritize upgrades accordingly. Don’t be discouraged by unfavorable RNG; persistence and strategic decision-making are key.
Understanding enemy attack patterns and mastering the dodge mechanic are vital for surviving the unforgiving combat, regardless of the difficulty setting.
