Developer Housemarque has released the Zenith update for its PlayStation 5 shooter Saros. The update introduces several new features, including a boss-rush mode, a New Game Plus option, and a variety of modifiers designed to adjust the game's difficulty for both new and returning players.
A key addition is the Slow Game Speed option, which allows players to manually or automatically slow down the game. This feature provides crucial extra time for players to react to the game's dense projectile patterns, often described as a "bullet ballet."
Housemarque stated it was cautious about making its games too easy, aiming to preserve Saros' core combat. The Slow Game Speed option was implemented to offer players more control without fundamentally altering the game's challenging nature. The update also introduces modifiers that can be used to either assist players or increase the challenge. Protection modifiers offer aids, such as the Corruption Melee Enhancement that utilizes the game's built-up Corruption for powerful melee attacks. Conversely, Trial modifiers present tougher challenges, like Hostile Regeneration, which causes crowd-controlled enemies to rapidly recover health unless dealt with quickly in melee.
The New Game Plus mode, called Eclipse Layers, becomes available after completing the game. Each subsequent Eclipse Layer offers a more difficult experience with altered rules, and players will need to meet specific prerequisites to unlock them. As players progress through Eclipse Layers, the protagonist Arjun gains a sun-like crown and golden glowing armor, which expands based on the active modifiers. This crown is also necessary to unlock 12 new story visions added to the game.
Overlord Rush is a new boss-rush mode designed for shorter play sessions, featuring sets of the game's bosses. A final gauntlet within this mode, named Totality, pits players against all eight Overlords consecutively.
Saros launched in April on PS5 and received generally positive reviews. Despite a slow initial sales period, particularly when compared to Housemarque's previous title Returnal, the developer has indicated that this Zenith update is part of an ongoing commitment to supporting and expanding the game.