recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Delphic Visor

**Delphic Visor** is a piece of permanent equipment for Selene. This suit upgrade allows Selene to see bright white/blue spheres that show hidden platforms when she shoots them. It is also required to have this upgrade to kill the final boss otherwise Selene wont see that objects that she needs to shoot.

## Location

It is acquired in the region Abyssal Scar.

## Databank Entry

[CORRUPTED TEXT] SEE WHAT I SEE [CORRUPTED TEXT] A HOUSE OF PAIN [CORRUPTED TEXT] ALL IS PERMITTED IN MY DOMAIN

**WARNING: Object has embedded itself into [UNKOWN ERROR] systems and disengaging it is impossible with complete system shutdown.**
Blown Nightlight

**Blown Nightlight** is an Artifact in Returnal. This Artifact can be bought at Fabricators for \_ Obolites.

## Passive Effects

Personal item. Being at full or low Integrity increases weapon damage by 10%.

## Unlocking

The **Blown Nightlight** can be acquired either after finding and crushing a wooden cube during the \_ house sequence, or can also be purchased from the Cthonos at the crash site.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A light source glowing with intermittent pulses. This appears to be a rudimentary Morse code system.

### Research Level 2

The pattern of blinks is difficult to parse as the start of the message appears neither fixed nor deterministic. One reading indicates four letters while another six. Further fogging translation efforts is uncertain syllabary [UNKOWN REFERENCE] otherwise an obsession with archaic [LOGIC FAULT] for a reason long-forgotten [CRITICAL FAILURE]

### Research Level 3

^;\\*=consciously turning her back to the welding operation. She couldn’t stand waring a mask anymore. It reminded her of suffocation and burial. Patchwork repairs worked for metal. What could be used to cover over the holes drill into her mind? For a moment she wondered if hot steel might work, melted into the cranial#}[\’]
AS-AL-094: Irreversible Contamination

**Irreversible Contamination** is a Scout Log found in the Tower of Sisyphus.

## Transcript

I have covered every inch of my suit with skin from the tower. "Irreversibly contaminated", according to Scout Regulations.

What a joke. I am beautiful in this skin. I am worthy to ascend. I accept this torment, this suffering...

As I climb, I become something greater than myself.
Energy Barricade

**Energy Barricade** is a Consumable in **Returnal**. This Consumable can be bought at Fabricators for \_ Obolites (\_ in the Tower of Sisyphus).

## Energy Barricade

### Materials

Graphite, Iridium and [DATABASE MISMATCH]

## Use

* Creates an immobile barricade that blocks enemy projectiles and boosts friendly projectiles.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A xeno-type device that creates a curved [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] energy barrier, which blocks hostile projectiles yet amplifies user's own projectiles. The existence of these devices may explain that lack of any permanent defensive structures on the planet, implying that the conflict was either very fast-moving or the battle sites hard to predict, requiring plenty of fast, mobile structures.

### Research Level 2

Shielding units observed under [DATABASE MISMATCH] altering variances. Considering the unique signature, it is therefore surprising that such simple engineering [PARSING ERROR] a degree of conscious analysis. The most plausible explanation is that the device scans the user before being deployed, then erects the necessary receptor defenses per the given disorder.

### Research Level 3

\^][}\*over the wall. She needed to stop peeking, but the compulsion was irresistible. Had to know, had to catalogue, had to constantly observe without getting her hands bloody while knowing her consciousness was already steeped crimson and- why did she hesitate? An image of the old lab flashed in her mind, a time before ancient terrors took[\\*^';
AS-AL-096: Offering

**Offering** is a Scout Log found in the Tower of Sisyphus.

## Transcript

I made the offering. The gift. A sacrifice of the living to the dead.

I kneeled before that sterile shrine, penitent. Inside, behind, a shriek. A song of fury and betrayal.

More! Ascend, descend, ascend! Crawl shattered through splintered shadow and misshapen flesh!
Key Retriever

**Key Retriever** is an Artifact in Returnal. This Artifact can be bought at Fabricators for \_ Obolites.

## Passive Effects

25% chance to retain an Atropian Key on usage.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A xeno-type artifact in the shape of a three-pronged claw with a deeper recess in the center. When using an Atropian Key, the device [PARSING ERROR], preventing the Key from being consumed with still opening the lock. Due to the remarkable well-preserved state of the item leads to the conclusion that the inconsistency is not due to degradation of the device but something else.

### Research Level 2

The item utilises mechanisms [UNKNOWN FAULT] electromagnetism or otherwise noted. Despite the inconclusive results, the retention [LOGIC FAULT] striking result and appears to be a side effect rather than the original intent. It is possible this device was a “technological cul-de-sac” that was abandoned when the inventor found a more desirable approach.

### Research Level 3

-\*#\{can’t expect to hide in it.” The nebula was stirring and starting to awaken, coalescing into a disembodied mind. She hadn’t intended to stay here so long, but now… the point of no return was visible and measurable, Refuge had been subverted into the most dangerous situation imaginable, survival could not=^[|\
AST-AL-005: Broadcast Signal

**"Broadcast Signal**" is a Scout Log that is found in the Overgrown Ruins.

## Transcript

Scout Log: Atropos.

Who triggered the broadcast?

"Do you see the White Shadow?" is something only I should know.

And now, out of literally nowhere, I'm hearing it again.

Were the sentients involved?

But how would they have known...?

I need to believe there are answers at the signal.
AST-AL-047: The Message

**"The Message"** is a Scout Log found in the Fractured Wastes.

## Transcript

What is compelling me to seek the center of the world?

Could it be the Severed?

That doesn't make sense and yet the murals are indicating that they came up out of the deep.

The only answers I decipher from xenoglyphs are that their destruction was inevitable.

Who was the destroyer?

What were they trying to unearth?
AST-AL-042: Severed Unbound

**"Severed Unbound"** is a Scout Log found in the Echoing Ruins.

## Transcript

The Severed are still here.

Like me.

But despite their broken bodies and minds, they've ascended.

The Severed achieve clarity in madness by climbing the Throne of Exaltation.

My father once sat atop it; every organ pipe chanting in a way I never could.
Echoing Ruins

**Echoing Ruins** is the fourth region in Returnal. This region is similar to Overgrown Ruins but has more plant life. After Selene completes Act 1, this will be the new starting point until she beats Act 2.

While many parts of the Echoing Ruins are different from the Overgrown Ruins, the Fabricator room and the room attached to it remain mostly the same, but with a key difference. In the Overgrown Ruins, the door on the right was open, which would lead to the Anathema Vault and Phrike. However, in the Echoing Ruins, the door straight ahead will be open, leading to the spire where Hyperion is playing the organ.

**Selene CANNOT go back to Act 1 until she has beaten Act 2, meaning that Selene cannot get certain items that are exclusive to the first three regions!**

## Hostiles

* Lamiadon
* Echoing Turret
* Gyropod
* Proto-Strixera
* Strixera Matriarch
* Proto-Titanops
* Malformed Proto-Titanops
* Trichozoid
* Hyperion - Boss
* Proteron
* Chrysoid
* Infected Scout

## Scout Logs

* AST-AL-035: New Cycle
* AST-AL-036: Lost Foundation
* AST-AL-037: The Intruder
* AST-AL-038: Repeating Phrase
* AST-AL-039: New Objective
* AST-AL-040: Lost Childhood
* AST-AL-041: Triggering Event
* AST-AL-042: Severed Unbound
* AST-AL-043: Eternal Return
* AST-AL-058: Mothership Psych Evaluation
* AST-AL-066: The Truth Lying

## Xenoglyphs

* AST-AX-010: Severed Memories
* AST-AX-011: Into A Lake Of Madness
* AST-AX-012: This Endless Song
* AST-AX-019: First Test

## Xeno-Archives

* Echoing Ruins, Tableau 1
* Echoing Ruins, Tableau 2
* Echoing Ruins, Tableau 3
* Echoing Ruins, Tableau 4
* Echoing Ruins, Tableau 5
Frost Turret

A **Frost Turret** is a hostile found in the Fractured Wastes. On death, this hostile drops 5-8 Obolites.

## Attacks

* Shoots 3 projectiles in a triangle spread that, on impact, freeze the environment and make the player slower while they make contact with it.
	+ On impact, a white ring appears on the edge of the frozen zone that moves inwards toward the chunk of ice in the center; upon reaching the player, it detonates.
* Possible shield.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A stationary gun turret, similar to the ones encountered in [DATABASE MISMATCH]. This model fires a cluster of projectiles that slow down targets in their initial landing area and then explode with delay.

### Research Level 2

The compound inside the mountain seems to hold the original facilities that manufactured many of the machines created by the Hivemind. Potentially the proximity of the rare earths and [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] must have necessitated its unusual location. Whether they collapsed in a natural disaster or [LOGIC FAULT] cannot be ascertained.

### Research Level 3

#=/.;abased the ground itself. Such a ferocity towards their own creator could only be explained by one thing. The possibility was fragile but the patterns were too similar to disregard. "Salvage what you can, but we must get below the ground before nightfall." Before they could ask why, she^/(,
Frost Machina

A **Frost Machina** is a hostile found in the Fractured Wastes. On death, this hostile drops \_ Obolites.

## Attacks

* \_.
* Charges up and fires a **DARK PURPLE BEAM** that can't be dodged through.
* On death, creates a volley of **YELLOW TRACKERS** that seek out the player.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A spherical machine with strong similarities to the one encountered in Citadel. This version has more advanced weaponry: a slow dark beam attack that cannot be phased through; a heavier projectile that explodes into an expanding [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] energy circle; a wave pattern of smaller projectiles. The reason for the wave pattern is unclear. It seems to require little to no recharge time between these attacks, making its internal [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] than previously estimated.

### Research Level 2

The Frost Machina share [DATA MISSING] with the Armored Machina that it is unlikely that they are just two separate variations of the same machine. These must be the original machines of which the Machinas in Citadel are but degraded copies (having lost power and functionality over time). It is a feat of engineering that the machines can still function and adapt their remaining resources to provide defense after the loss of [UNKNOWN VARIABLE].

### Research Level 3

{\#^\*;about to slaughter or be slaughtered. The distinction would be difficult to ascertain until Phase Two finished and the airlock repressurised. He shook her roughly by the shoulders, but she wasn't listening. Her slanted smile hadn't slipped. "The chamber is empty!" he bellowed. The smile arced higher in maddening glee; she was lost in her own=\*;'\^

(databank entry courtesy of reddit user Deckard9732)
Malformed Archonact

A **Malformed Archonact** is a hostile that can be randomly found in any biome (except for the Abyssal Scar). On death, this hostile drops \_ Obolites.

## Attacks

* Same as the Archonact's moveset, but with Malformed modifiers.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] variant of Archonact, becoming the void of [LOGIC ERROR]. Hosts similar growths as [DATABASE MISMATCH], pointing to the possibility that this is the work of indifference. White of eyes, white of bones, white of grief. It attacks with riven tombs vomiting the unprocessed contents. All these factors make your death a [DATA MISSING]. Proceed to smile when you encounter [TERMINAL WARNING].

### Research Level 2

forced exaltation [CORRUPTED TEXT] the grave belches forth its newborn offspring full-grown wide-mouthed contempt for natural order superseded by glorious needs [CORRUPTED TEXT] i nullify my limitation [CORRUPTED TEXT] impossible emergence

### Research Level 3

-|/#=could this have gone too far? If each one of them was fuel enough for the engines, escape was finally possible... but at what cost? Simple. The eradication of their enemies. Could such a thing be worth the risk? "I wish..." he started, then trailed off, likely realizing the exception had become status quo. Their lives, as they knew it, were over. "An ecstatic meeting^}+=/

(levels 2 and 3 courtesy of reddit user DougieDoug12)
AST-AL-050: Primordial Forces

**"Primordial Forces"** is a Scout Log found in the Fractured Wastes.

## Transcript

I remember, while crossing the desert, I used to feel shadows watching me.

Could they have been manipulating me instead?

Not passive watchers.

Active participants.

Chronos.

Xaos.

What controls them?

Who are they?

Am I being manipulated now?

If that's the case... why do I feel like I want to continue?
AST-AX-001: Our Severed Brethren

**Our Severed Brethren** is a Xenoglyph found in the Overgrown Ruins. 1 glyph is required for Tier 1 translation, 2 glyphs for Tier 2 translation, and 3 glyphs for Tier 3 complete translation.

## Databank Entry

### Tier 1

Translation Accuracy: 23%

.......**OUR SEVERED BRETHREN**..*agitated waters?*.............**MADDENING AGONY**............**STOP THE ENDLESS CYCLE OF**.......

### Tier 2

Translation Accuracy: 47%

.....*octopus upstairs?*.....**OUR BRETHREN ARE SEVERED OUR AGONY IS MADDENING, WE CANNOT STOP THE ENDLESS CYCLE OF**.... *seizures?*

### Tier 3

Translation Accuracy: 78%

**OUR CONNECTION TO OUR BRETHREN IS SEVERED, OUR AGONY IS MADDENING, WE CANNOT STOP THE ENDLESS CYCLE OF VIOLENCE TO COME.**
AST-AL-021: Beyond Barriers

**"Beyond Barriers"** is a Scout Log found in the Crimson Wastes.

## Transcript

I'm heading straight for the signal source again.

Scaling the wall should be an easy task this time.

More of the history of this world is certainly over on the other side.

But *"do you see the white shadow?"*

This phrase is calling me.

It's reached the point that I can't hear anything else.
AST-AL-019: Hostile Life

**"Hostile Life"** is a Scout Log found in the Overgrown Ruins.

## Transcript

The variety of dangerous fauna on this world is beyond anything I've previously experienced.

I hate to use the term, but it feels... "mythic."

It's impossible not to think of my books...

hydras, gorgons, and other monsters returning to life.
AST-AL-058: Mothership Psych Evaluation

**"Mothership Psych Evaluation"** is a Scout Log found in the Echoing Ruins.

## Transcript

Why has my transfer been delayed?

I have... ways to deal with that.

*"Delusions"*?

No, they're helping me stay... balanced.

I've made a lot of progress.

What is everyone expecting to find?

If they shine a light at me, they'll see the shadow they expect every time.

* After the Scout Log ends, Selene will say, "I remember that day... I wish I had stayed."
AST-AL-018: Broken Communication

**"Broken Communication"** is a Scout Log found in the Crimson Wastes.

## Transcript

I'm relatively confident the... Severed would have been incapable of sending out the White Shadow broadcast.

Their fractured nature does not display any proof of higher cerebral functions.

The other sentients must still be alive at its source beyond the wall.

But without a proper means of communication, will they view me as hostile as well?

I haven't come here to destroy.

## See Also

* Severed
* White Shadow
Blade Balancer

**Blade Balancer** is an Artifact in Returnal. This Artifact can be bought at Fabricators for 250 Obolites.

## Passive Effects

Enables a more powerful melee attack. Melee attacks can also cut through orange barriers.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A xeno-type artifact shaped like three-part screw with a central hole that is compatible with the handle of the Atropian Blade. This item will bring additional balance to the weapon and enhance the power output of the [UNKNOWN FAULT], allowing for stronger attacks. At least on the short-term, there seems to be no drawbacks to the addition of this artifact.

### Research Level 2

The artifact seems to derive the power it provides to the blade from [UNKNOWN REFERENCE], drawing it directly from the user’s memory. [CORRUPTED TEXT] like a professional, knowing that psychologically crushing attacks should always be reserved to when it can deal the most damage.

### Research Level 3

]\^\*’;/shuddering as the afterimages bled from his vision, seemingly pooling around his feet alongside the clumps of her sloughed hair. She smiled. “Potent. Yes?” “These aren’t forces we - you least of all - - should be…” “Tapping into?” “…conscious of.” The sadistic smile did falter, but her resolve^=‘#\

(tier 3 databank info courtesy of reddit user DougieDoug12)
Act 1

**Act 1** in Returnal is Overgrown Ruins, Crimson Wastes, and Derelict Citadel. Upon killing Nemesis a cut scene plays showing that she makes it off Atropos and lives out her remaining days on earth until she dies and wakes up on Atropos once again but sixty three years have passed.

Selene can unlock region shortcuts to each region by killing the boss, these are permanent. All Selene needs to do is find the gateway on each run.

## Regions

* Overgrown Ruins
* Crimson Wastes
* Derelict Citadel

## Bosses

* Phrike -Overgrown Ruins
* Ixion -Crimson Wastes
* Nemesis -Derelict Citadel

## Permanent Equipment

These items are story related, required to progress, and acquired in the first three regions.

* Icarian Grapnel
* House Key
* Crimson Key
* Hermetic Transmitter

[WIP]
AST-AL-053: Faceless Mass

**"Faceless Mass"** is a Scout Log found in the Abyssal Scar.

## Transcript

I have seen the jet black skull behind the visor of the Astronaut.

I recognize parts of myself within those shadows, fighting to be free.

If it can show the world one face, then another... have I met it before?

What was the name that sat on its head?

Was it the first one who said...

*"Do you see the White Shadow"*?
Crimson Key

**Crimson Key** is a permanent equipment item that allows Selene to use the **Crimson Gateway**.

## Databank Entry

A xeno-tech artifact with [MISSING DATA] encoded data similar to an access code.

The energy signature of this key matches that of the **Crimson Gateway**.

**WARNING: Object has embedded itself into [UNKNOWN ERROR] systems and disengaging it is impossible without complete system shutdown.**
AST-AL-002: Arrival

**"Arrival"** is a Scout Log found in the Overgrown Ruins.

## Transcript

My end is waiting at the beginning, abandoned like Helios.

Last drive.

Failed escape.

Fatal crash.

My memories have been rearranged into spiral patterns I cannot comprehend, dragging me into the deepest of the deep.

I will go there now.

As you will.
Frost Drone

A **Frost Drone** is a hostile found in the Fractured Wastes. On death, this hostile drops \_ Obolites.

## Attacks

* \_.
* Fires a cluster of missiles at the player.
* Can shoot a laser beam at the floor for a few seconds, which creates two red rings that expand out until they dissipate.
* Will kamikaze into the player if it reaches low enough health.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A flying machine with a round central core and two supporting engines on both sides. This model is capable of firing homing missiles as well as a ground-oriented [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] beam that emits damaging, expanding circles. Similar to the ones found on Citadel, these drones are also programmed to overload their systems and attempt to crash into their target after sustaining critical damage.

### Research Level 2

Internal wiring is significantly [DATABASE MISMATCH] therefore surprising given robust, durable exterior plating. While contrary in [PARSIN ERROR] housed in a different unit. The adaptability of design may speak to the prowess of the creators' lateral thinking, encountering one dead-end pathway only to shift down a new, more successful route.

### Research Level 3

-^/{]=survival without regard to consequence, moral or otherwise. Cargo pods were marching like wingless bees back and forth across the tarmacadam, hypnotizing her into a false sense of security and plenty. She muttered under her breath something that was either a prayer or a lie. The ship had outlived its intended usage and the supplies promised\*'^;.#
AST-AL-062: The Lying Truth

**"The Lying Truth"** is a Scout Log found in the Overgrown Ruins.

## Transcript

A moment of hesitation.

Now he's gone and I remain.

Did I survive the initial impact?

What a horrifying life I've walked into.

I turn around and notice the front door is already closed behind me... before I was even aware that my hand had locked the deadbolt.

Mother, I'm home.
Overgrown Ruins

**Overgrown Ruins** is the first region that Selene enters in Returnal after her crash with Helios on Atropos. The area is dark, with abandoned structures and overgrown vegetation.

Players also will receive their first task, *Locate the "White Shadow" broadcast*, here in the ruins.

## Hostiles

* Kerberon
* Atropian Turret
* Kerberonyx
* Malformed Kerberonyx
* Strixera
* Titanops
* Mycomorph
* Lamiadon
* Phrike - Boss
* Proteron
* Chrysoid
* Infected Scout
* Broken Tripod

## Scout logs

* AST-AL-001: Planet Atropos
* AST-AL-002: Arrival
* AST-AL-003: Eternal Void
* AST-AL-004: Extinct Civilization
* AST-AL-005: Broadcast Signal
* AST-AL-006: Inadequate Support
* AST-AL-007: The Astronaut
* AST-AL-008: Abandoned Home
* AST-AL-009: Parasite Attachment
* AST-AL-010: Restart Location
* AST-AL-011: Strange Afterimages
* AST-AL-012: Paradox Implications
* AST-AL-013: Functioning Corpse
* AST-AL-014: Mural of Reflection
* AST-AL-019: Hostile Life
* AST-AL-062: The Lying Truth
* AST-AL-064: Doorway of Glory Crossed
* AST-AL-065: Fragments of Glory Assembled

## Xenoglyphs

* AST-AX-001: Our Severed Brethren
* AST-AX-002: Eyes Beholding
* AST-AX-003: Barred from Citadel
* AST-AX-019: First Test

## Xeno-Archives

* AST-AX-OR1: Overgrown Ruins, Tableau 1
* AST-AX-OR2: Overgrown Ruins, Tableau 2
* AST-AX-OR3: Overgrown Ruins, Tableau 3
* AST-AX-OR4: Overgrown Ruins, Tableau 4

## Trivia

* The player can find the Astronaut watching them in the room where the player first discovers the Spitmaw Blaster. From where the Blaster is, turn around to where you entered the room from and the Astronaut may be on the top of the right pillar.
Abyssal Archonact

An **Abyssal Archonact** is a hostile found in the Abyssal Scar. On death, this hostile drops 22-30 Obolites.

## Attacks

* \_.
* Creates 5 rings made of 30 **BLUE ORBS**, followed by another smaller ring of **BLUE ORBS**. The rings are fired at the player's current position, meaning that the player has to dodge either outside the rings or right in the middle of the rings in order to dodge the attack.
* Can create a swarm seeking **PINK MALFUNCTION ARROWS**.
* Tri-Laser-Beam that starts near it at ground level and travels up towards the ceiling.
* After a short charge up, fires 5 arcing red projectiles, one after the other, that create **RED RINGS** upon impacting the environment. Unlike most red rings, these expand out at a much slower rate and last for a long time before dissipating.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A [UNDEFINED ERROR] Archonact, adapted to drowning slowly. Its movement indicates it has lost all contact with the ground. Attacks with three split center lines, rising to sky. Tunnel of light. Malfunctions. Enlarged pupils that dilate all the way to death. When encountered, [DATA CORRUPTED] maximum pressure squeezing out consciousness into a droplet.

### Research Level 2

blossoming entanglement [CORRUPTED TEXT] labyrinthine infinity returning from Euclidean roads all leading to a vile center the centrifugal force causing blackouts from inertia [CORRUPTED TEXT] i entrap my avatar [CORRUPTED TEXT] fractured distillate

### Research Level 3

^\*=/#could hunting their enemies ever stop? What a blessing it would be to finally set down her burdens, though the only result would be a death that meant half of nothing. "Vicious momentum..." Stopping was now suicide. Unacceptable. She felt herself burning out on the edges, never losing the core of self, but feeling a numbness spread as=^#[\-
AST-AL-016: Severed Minds

**"Severed Minds"** is a Scout Log found in the Crimson Wastes.

## Transcript

Xenoglyphs spoke of their single-mindedness, but did not prepare me for⏤

I barely managed to dispatch the sentients that attacked me.

I've never encountered such hostility and madness.

But that writing... it spoke of these "severed brethren".

I don't know enough to understand yet, but what conceivable force could have caused any intelligent life to become like this?

## See Also

* Severed
* Xenoglyphs
Malignant Obolite

**Malignant Obolite** is a resource found everywhere on Atropos in larger Obolite chunks. The Atropian Blade is required to break them.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A formation of obolite that has become affected by the malignancy, making these deposits likely to cause malfunctions if mined. It is interesting that this phenomenon can affect both organic and inorganic matter as well with exceedingly similar results. Despite this [MISSING REFERENCE] to adapt, it has still not taken over everything in this environment. The question remains: if it is truly a uncontrolled, non-sentient phenomenon, what is holding it back?

### Research Level 2

Due to a lattice-work of [CORRUPTED TEXT] were possible. If a primary source of these minerals does exist, it may explain [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] one obolite to remain resistant while another becomes infected. It remains plausible that an evolutionary process results in this variant and it is the final step before total breakdown.

### Research Level 3

\*=^;/plunging through the exosphere. It began to shimmer, then spread as though an exponentially expanding veil of gossamer. When it was well into the thermosphere, it sparked to brilliant life. Aurora-like, an illusory flower, before incinerating and being ripped apart by forces beyond human comprehension or any of her calculations. "The ending of all}\-^#
In Event of Moon Disaster

**"In Event of Moon Disaster"** is a ship log found on the Helios computer in Returnal.

## Transcript

Fate has ordained that the men who went to the moon to explore in peace will stay on the moon to rest in peace.

These brave men know that there is no hope for their recovery. But they also know that there is hope for mankind in their sacrifice. These two men are laying down their lives in mankind's most noble goal: the search for truth and understanding.

They will be mourned by their families and friends; they will be mourned by their nation; they will be mourned by the people of the world; they will be mourned by a Mother Earth that dared send two of her sons into the unknown. In their exploration, they stirred the people of the world to feel as one; in their sacrifice, they bind more tightly the brotherhood of man.

In ancient days, men looked at stars and saw their heroes in the constellations. In modern times, we do much the same, but our heroes are epic men of flesh and blood. Others will follow, and surely find their way home. Man's search will not be denied. But these men were the first, and they will remain the foremost in our hearts. For every human being who looks up at the moon in the nights to come will know that there is some corner of another world that is forever mankind.

AFTER THE PRESIDENT'S STATEMENT, AT THE POINT WHEN NASA ENDS COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE MEN:

A clergyman should adopt the same procedure as a burial at sea, commending their souls to "the deepest of the deep," concluding with the Lord's Prayer.

## Trivia

* "In Event of Moon Disaster" is a real-world speech written by Bill Safire to be delivered by United States President Richard Nixon in the event that the Apollo 11 mission ended in disaster. Because the mission was a success, it was never delivered, but a copy was recorded in the United States National Archives. Why a copy of the speech is saved in the ship's computer is unclear.

* Selene uses the quotation "the deepest of the deep" in a scout log.

## Sources

1. ↑ Washington Post, written by James Mann, published July 12, 2019
AST-AL-017: Ascent from Bondage

**"Ascent from Bondage"** is a Scout Log found in the Crimson Wastes.

## Transcript

I know why they became Severed.

Divine punishment for failing ascension.

Ascension!

No sooner has the word escaped my lips than a vast image of the Transcendent Watcher in the Deep Below consumes my mind.

I have begun having visions of where I have yet to go.

They lead me continually downwards from Olympus and into myself.

I alone am worthy.

## Notes

* Upon hearing this Scout Log, Selene says: "What happened to... her? That was *not* me."
Dismantler

Dismantler is a Consumable found in **Returnal**. This Consumable can be bought at Fabricators for \_ Obolites (\_ in the Tower of Sisyphus).

## Dismantler

### Materials

Graphite, Iridium, and [DATABASE MISMATCH]

## Use

* Releases a large wave of energy that heavily damages hostiles and turns killed hostiles into Obolites.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A xeno-type device with extremely powerful offensive capabilities. Its detonation triggers total eradication of hostiles in the nearby area. All of the targets, whether they are biological or technological, are broken down into their molecular components and the suitable materials are then combined to form Obolites. This effect is more pronounced closer to the epicenter of the blast, indicating that it is a secondary function to the intended obliteration.

### Research Level 2

By creating an instantaneous yet temporary [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] user and anyone with 99.9995% genetic match is protected from the resultant explosion. While the damage is extensive [CRITICAL FAULT] confined to a given area, likely as a hardwired limiter to prevent indiscriminate collateral damage of any innocent life.

### Research Level 3

^;=\*'#much left. What was, however, was a luminous sheen splattering the walls of the chamber. Arctic blue yet dark enough to appear black when she looked in another direction. A twitching fullness engorged behind her rib cage. "Not now..." she said in a quiet voice, believing it was an anxiety attack, then realizing in thrilling wonder{\*]\;
Archonact

An **Archonact** is a hostile found in the Crimson Wastes. On death, this hostile drops \_ Obolites.

## Attacks

* Fires a swarm of yellow trackers at the player.
* Spins in a circle, spitting three waves of **BLUE ORBS** out around itself.
* Creates a circle in front of itself that is made up of 18 lines (with each line containing 9 **BLUE ORBS**). One by one, the **BLUE ORBS** turn into blue trackers and fire out at the player, from the inmost orbs to the outmost.
* On death, this hostile crashes to the ground, creating two red rings on the ground and an explosion consisting of **BLUE ORBS** in a random spread.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A large flying [UNREFINED ERROR]. Null sphere cuboid-shaped with multiple, long [DATABASE MISMATCH] reaching from the depths. Similarities to Aetheract are like sun, like moon, like void. Spin. Smile. Spin. Create skin and spit teeth. Circles upon circles upon circles. Upon [TERMINAL WARNING], you will experience volatile overgrowth petrifying horizons into unknown deaths.

### Research Level 2

evolutionary cul-de-sac [CORRUPTED TEXT] foreign mass limitations weighing down with unimaginable burden a gravestone hewn before its hour has come [CORRUPTED TEXT] I entomb my potential [CORRUPTED TEXT] frightening immobility.

### Research Level 3

]/^]=and madness, nothing more. She was the one that lived and would damn herself before letting them carve this triumph into a yoke. Her plan had worked. No one dared whisper as the screaming in the engine room snuffed into a murmur that took them all long minutes to recognise as the engines rekindling back to life. This was their new beginning-\*(;#=

(level 3 unlock courtesy of Discord user Tommy 86)
Energy Manipulator

**Energy Manipulator** is an Artifact in Returnal. This Artifact can be bought at Fabricators for \_ Obolites (400 in the Tower of Sisyphus).

## Passive Effects

Using a Consumable briefly increases Protection by 10%.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A xeno-type artifact in the shape of a [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] with two small handles on opposing sides. The item seems to utilize the energy that is released from Consumable devices to create a faint impact reduction field around the user, causing a temporary increase in Protection.

### Research Level 2

Through a remarkable inversion of the law of [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] and into detectable and useful energy. As [DATABASE MISMATCH] not wholly random, it is highly plausible that the conversion process could be used on an even greater scale. If such a hypotheses were correct, it would be possible to convert any type of matter into any type of energy regardless of where the source was abandoned.

### Research Level 3

/#];=difficult to not be incredulous. The machinists must have picked up on her unspoken signals because they immediately drove into a litany of technical jargon. At first she thought they were speaking in tongues, until she realized this was the exact moment in the nightmare when the figure behind her{]\\*’^
AS-AL-083: Reclamation

**Reclamation** is a Scout Log found in the Tower of Sisyphus.

## Transcript

Inside. Behind. Truth and agony. She Who Took. She Who Has Taken.

I sought to tear the empty promise away, to reclaim myself from her shadow.

Reclamation! Ascension!

Onwards. Upwards. Find the sun. Look no more over my shadow, into the dark waters, into torment.

* After hearing this audio log for the first time, Selene says, "Even in her madness, she... I felt it too."
AST-AL-037: The Intruder

**"The Intruder"** is a Scout Log found in the Echoing Ruins.

## Transcript

I'm starting to see patterns that I know are not there.

I cannot trust my memories.

The planet knows me better than I know myself.

The Hivemind and the Severed are real.

Helios is real.

The Astronaut... is missing.

I haven't found it anywhere.

Where has it gone...?
Malformed Proto-Titanops

A **Malformed Proto-Titanops** is a hostile that can be randomly found in any biome (except for the Abyssal Scar). On death, this hostile drops \_ Obolites.

## Attacks

* Lunging punch
* Leaping ground slam that leads into three fast moving purple rings that cannot be dodged through
* Exclusive Malformed modifiers

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

The Malformed variant of the Proto-Titanops is a formidable creature. As its condition shares many similarities with the Malformed Kerberonyx, it is likely there is a unifying cause behind it. The fungal and mineral growths could be the result of a weakened immune system, when the "Malformed condition" is able to slip in and [DATA MISSING]. So far no unifying cause has been found, but cellular damage shows key indicators of a possible disease.

### Research Level 2

Further scans of its physiology have potential answers as to why the Malformed variants are so rare. The fungal growths secreting [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] are supersaturating muscle tissue with constant influxes of substance chemically similar to adrenaline. While the effects of [DATABASE MISMATCH] weapons over time, it can still result in painful build-up in the muscles further aggravating its rage and reckless behaviour. Due to other physiological changes, the creature's metabolism is unable to process all of the toxic build-up in its bloodstream and barring death through other means, it would die from the negative build-up loop resulting in a systemic crash.

### Research Level 3

{\*^'\venting it as fast as they could. Not good enough. The ship was already deteriorating from the inside out after using the chamber. She checked the readout: they had already surpassed fatal levels. Twenty more minutes and there would be nothing left, just a whisper of regrets strewn across the unnamed emptiness between^;#/\*

(tier 2 and 3 databank unlock courtesy of Discord user Tommy 86)
AS-AL-091: DPI: Inspirations

**DPI: Inspirations** is a Scout Log found in the Tower of Sisyphus.

## Transcript

I was wondering when you would ask about her.

You knew her as an astronaut in training. One of the chosen few.

To me, she was just... Mother.

She taught me... resolve. She taught me to depend only upon myself.

Not "inspiration", no. More like... a shadow I stood within. I intend to be taller than that shadow.
AST-AL-035: New Cycle

**"New Cycle"** is a Scout Log found in the Echoing Ruins.

## Transcript

I should have ignored this place all those years ago.

I shouldn't have abandoned everyone to come here.

Has nothing changed?

I sat at the piano and for once... I felt.

The music is calling me now. How do I stop this?

I don't want to become that woman who speaks madness with my voice.
AST-AL-010: Restart Location

**"Restart Location"** is a Scout Log found in the Overgrown Ruins, shortly after using a Reconstructor for the first time.

## Transcript

After developing an acceptance of the nature of this... cycle, I need to learn if I can alter these devices.

The ones that temporarily prevent me from returning to the ship after the crash.

This proves... somehow... I can "restart"... elsewhere.

If only that were permanent.
Damaged Robot

**Damaged Robot** is an Artifact in Returnal. This Artifact can be bought at Fabricators for \_ Obolites.

## Passive Effects

Personal item. Increases invulnerability time after getting hit.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A prototype exoskeleton apparatus of undiscovered alloys. Its upper and lower torso are unfixed.

### Research Level 2

Deeper analysis reveals multiple fractures within the interior, localised at the point where the two independent pieces were once connected. Constant friction seems to have escalated into accidental separation. Little effort has gone into mending [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] through constant nagging [DATABASE MISMATCH] better left unsaid [CRITICAL FAILURE]

### Research Level 3

#\*;\brood of thoughts. The preliminary plan meant she started at the current formulae until they bled off the page and screamed on the floor. When she opened her eyes, she found herself back in the void and watching everyone carry on without her. The nightmare disconnection continued until someone’s broken fingers^]{];\
AST-AL-022: Wrapped Statues

**"Wrapped Statues"** is a Scout Log found in the Crimson Wastes.

## Transcript

Deciphering the blood-red xenoglyphs has failed to reveal any symbolism behind statue-wrapping.

Suffocation? Imprisonment? Metamorphosis?

"I enshroud myself and hide; my shadows lurk everywhere and deeper".

Perhaps they were simply trying to bandage themselves and heal,

then transform into something greater and ascend.
AS-AL-090: DPI: Priorities

**DPI: Priorities** is a Scout Log found in the Tower of Sisyphus.

## Transcript

I would not investigate a signal unless specifically authorized to do so by ASTRA command.

I, uh... Of course. Feel free to ask.

Yes. It was a long time ago. My priorities are different now.

You're right, of course. Loss... grief... it is the hole that cannot be filled. But I am more than that.

Look at my record.

I have given everything for this role. I will continue to do so.
Regions

There are six total **Regions** in *Returnal*.

## Overgrown Ruins

*See Overgrown Ruins*
Overgrown Ruins is the first region made available to the player, and serves as the starting point for all runs made during Act 1 (which consists of Overgrown Ruins, Crimson Wastes, and Derelict Citadel.). Should the player die during Act 1, they will respawn by Helios at the start of the Overgrown Ruins. However any regional bosses already defeated will remain dead, and regional keys and suit upgrades will still be in their inventory. So while the player *can* revisit all of the Overgrown Ruins, it is not mandatory.

Its regional boss is Phrike, who guards the Crimson Key. After Phrike is defeated, and the aforementioned key is secured, the player will gain access to the next region, Crimson Wastes.

## Crimson Wastes

*See Crimson Wastes*
Crimson Wastes is the second region. Its regional boss is Ixion. Defeating Ixion unlocks the Icarian Grapnel, which allows access to the following region from the Overgrown Ruins.

## Derelict Citadel

*See Derelict Citadel*
Derelict Citadel is the third region, and final region for Act 1. It features robotic hostiles, and its regional boss is Nemesis.

* Note that once Act 2 has started, Act 1's respective regions *cannot* be accessed until Act 2's completion. Which effectively cuts the player off from various Act 1-specific items, if they haven't already found them (namely certain Weapons).

## Echoing Ruins

*See Echoing Ruins*
Echoing Ruins is the fourth region, and serves as the starting point for all runs made during Act 2 (which consists of Echoing Ruins, Fractured Wastes, and Abyssal Scar.). Similar to the Overgrown Ruins in Act 1, should the player die during Act 2, they will respawn by Helios at the start of the Echoing Ruins. Any regional bosses already defeated will remain dead, and regional keys and suit upgrades will still be in their inventory. So while the player *can* revisit all of the Echoing Ruins, it is not mandatory.

Echoing Ruins' regional boss is Hyperion.

## Fractured Wastes

*See Fractured Wastes*
Fractured Wastes is the fifth region. Unlike the other regions, it does not feature a regional boss.

## Abyssal Scar

*See Abyssal Scar*
Abyssal Scar is the sixth and final region of the game. It is spent entirely underwater, which becomes feasible after unlocking the Hadal Ballast in Fractured Wastes. Its regional boss is Ophion.
Act 2

**Act 2** in Returnal is Echoing Ruins, Fractured Wastes and Abyssal Scar. It is unlocked upon the completion of act 1 where Selene wakes wakes up on Atopos once again after she had made her way off Atropos after killing Nemesis and lived out her remaining days on earth. Her new objective is to silence the music that can be heard throughout the Echoing Ruins which she compares to her original objective to find White Shadow.

## Regions

* Echoing Ruins
* Fractured Wastes
* Abyssal Scar

## Bosses

* Hyperion -Echoing Ruins
* Ophion -Abyssal Scar
Hollowseeker

**Hollowseeker** is a weapon found in *Returnal*. It is found naturally in the Crimson Wastes region.

This weapon has 3 Statistics: Bonus Damage, Projectile Reactivity, and Stability.

* Bonus Damage increases this weapon's damage.
* Projectile Reactivity increases ???.
* Stability increases ???.

## In Game Description

*Unknown weapon. Extremely high rate of fire.*

## Available Alt-Fire Modes

*See Alt-Fire*
* Horizontal Barrage
* Shieldbreaker
* Shockstream
* Trackerswarm
* Doombringer
* Voidbeam

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A long-range weapon of unknown origin. Instead of generating the ammunition, it opens its mouth, screaming its [DATABASE MISMATCH] shards into being. As it is not dependent on others, it can do this with extremely rapid heart rate. Once fired, they continue to seek to crash, accelerating into [LOGIC ERROR] where devouring portals sing the darkness feeding on sinking guilt.
### Research Level 2

inverting all consequences [CORRUPTED TEXT] blood becomes acid the tissue screams in foreknowledge pitted and ossified skin peels away from the visions pushing outwards form the inside [CORRUPTED TEXT] i witness my inevitability [CORRUPTED TEXT] unstoppable departure
### Research Level 3

)\*}\'/unwilling to wait longer." He nodded and sent the message that would resurrect the dead ship. Tiny azure stars twinkled in her vision as the ghost light of guttering engines reflected off the flesh cocoon's interior. The diseased hull shuddered, then it drifted out through the bloom and towards the kilometers-wide rupture across]\:#\*'\
Damage Siphon

**Damage Siphon** is a Consumable found in **Returnal**. This Consumable can be bought at Fabricators for \_ Obolites (\_ in the Tower of Sisyphus).

## Damage Siphon

### Materials

Aluminum, Iridium and [UNKNOWN REFERENCE]

## Use

* Converts damage dealt into Integrity. Duration: Until 2 hits taken.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A portable xeno-type vial containing green fluid. Upon use, the vial breaks, coating the user in a liquid that hardens and feeds upon the kinetic impact from most [UNKNOWN ERROR] projectiles and hazardous elements. This kinetic energy is then harnessed to convert the substance into materials that repair the suit's Integrity. While other substances evaporate over time, this one's duration is limited by how many hits it takes.

### Research Level 2

While the sentients have also created straight-forward repairing devices, this was potentially used to help win some initial onslaughts into [PARSING ERROR]. Since the effects still wear off after a short period, the user should also [PARSING ERROR] aware of the situation as the embellished sense of superiority is liable to instill a false sense of invulnerability.

### Research Level 3

}\*];/it stared them down from high atop the plinth, shimmering in sweat and hatred and an unreality that could not be adequately defined by human senses. Their options were whittling down to a single last-ditch action: disintegrate the entire substructure. He was about to arm the device when a blast rang out. In an instant, bloody tissue{]#^-;
Abyssal Machina

An **Abyssal Machina** is a hostile found in the Abyssal Scar. On death, this hostile drops \_ Obolites.

## Attacks

* \_.
* Fires random spreads of **BLUE ORBS** from itself towards the player.
* Upon taking damage, it creates either a vertical or a horizontal red ring. There is a very short internal cooldown between each ring's creation.
* Upon death, this hostile's core erupts into a swarm of **ORANGE ORBS**, which fire out in a random spread.

## Databank Entries

### Research Level 1

A spherical machine with strong similarities to the ones encountered in the Citadel and the Wastes. This version has more advanced weaponry: projectile walls and [UNKNOWN REFERENCE] beams emitted in rings in response to damage. Upon termination it will explode in a hail of projectiles.

### Research Level 2

Further scans of its interiors reveal a strange energy signal at its core - a kind of hollow in the middle of its plasma reactor. Seemingly this is only present in the ones found in the underwater areas, indicating either a submersive adaptation or some kind of effect by a [UNKNOWN ERROR]. There is also evidence of significant strain on the outer plating indicating a massive [DATA CORRUPTED] coming from within the sphere. Potentially this is offset by the pressure of the depths, leaving the machine at an equilibrium between two massive forces.

### Research Level 3

}^\*)[with Phase Three, the final step. They were a hardy lot. Purpose-selected. Some may be breaking inside, a fact that even she had to admit to herself now and again. The masquerade had to be maintained until there was a chance to fix the systemic errors. Critical failure was coming. A time to cull was coming. Her defiance=#/\\*'^