Understanding the risk/reward system in Returnal is key to your survival and the game's concept as a whole. Are there save points in the game or not?

Unfortunately, there are no save points in this game. If you turn off the game (or your PS5) you will lose all progress. When you turn the game on again, you will wake up at the crash site of the "Helios" with one automatic pistol. But what if you want to take a break?

How to pause Returnal on PS5

If you need to leave urgently, you can pause the game process by returning to your home PS5 console. Just hold down the PS button and you will put the PS5 into rest mode, taking care of your everyday business. 

Are there checkpoints in Returnal

Checkpoints in a way are in the game. Having a total of six biomes, you technically get a checkpoint after completing biome 3. This allows you to bypass the first three biomes, starting with 4 with a clear conscience. In addition, you can also spend 6 Ethers on the Reconstructor, which acts as a resurrection point if you die during the passage. 

Will there be a save in Returnal

Most likely, saves will be added in the future. The lack of saves was heavily criticized by players because one full run of the game takes quite a long time. On April 30, Housemarque directly responded to user complaints from Reddit, assuring players that the studio is listening to all advice and requests from fans.