In Returnal, it appears that Selene isn't the only astral traveler on Atropos. Throughout the game she is haunted by another Astronaut, but this one is dressed in Apollo era space wear. After exploring the house for the first time early on in the game, players will get an Astronaut Figurine, and although it isn't clear exactly what this item does, players will soon learn that it is invaluable to successful runs. Here's what the Astronaut Figurine does, as well as what the best way to get more is after this first time.
While most of Returnal takes place in third person and is chock full of sci-fi action, players that find themselves exploring their old house will be treated to a different experience. The game's perspective changes to first person, and suddenly players and Selene are left feeling defenseless. After the first time exploring the house, players get the Astronaut Figurine, but this is the only time the item is guaranteed as a reward.
Returnal - What Does The Astronaut Figurine Do?
If the player has the Astronaut Figurine, they will be brought back after they die one time. Once the killing blow is dealt, the screen fades to black, but then the fight resumes as a message explains that the Astronaut Figurine has brought the player back. Not only can this help to keep a run going much longer than normal, it also is invaluable against bosses like Phrike as it gives players more time to learn their attacks. Players are brought back at the exact spot they died with full health and all of their upgrades.
Returnal - How to Get More Astronaut Figurines
Players can't simply reenter the house to get another one, but the item is now in the list of available artifact drops. This means that any time the player finds an artifact, there's a chance it will be the Astronaut Figurine. That said, the item does appear frequently in Fabricators (shops), and only costs 250 Obolites. This is almost always worth buying over anything else, as players can be sure that they will get the full use out of it eventually.
While the Astronaut seems to be playing some kind of antagonistic role in the psyche of Selene, the figurine itself is an incredibly helpful item. This could indicate a more benevolent intent on behalf of the Astronaut, but the item's description implies otherwise. It simply says "Personal item. It will not let you go." That's certainly foreboding, but it makes sense in terms of its surprise revival capabilities.
Returnal is available now on PS5.