From the creative minds at Devolver Digital and Croteam, The Talos Principle: Reawakened breathes new life into the beloved classic, now available on PlayStation 5. In this review, we’ll dive into what’s new and why this revamp might just be the definitive version.
Gone are the days when The Talos Principle dazzled us with the Serious Engine 4. With the transition to Unreal Engine 5, this remake elevates its presentation to new heights. Expect to see crisper textures, more vibrant environments, and lighting that truly enhances the overall experience. Tailoring itself to modern gaming standards, this version introduces quality-of-life enhancements that align it with the expectations set by The Talos Principle 2. Players will find a generously packed game, complete with the base content, the Road to Gehenna DLC, plus a fresh new chapter titled In the Beginning.
Reflecting on my experience with the original on PlayStation 4 back in 2015, I fondly recall the puzzle-rich, existential journey it provided. My excitement only grew with the release of The Talos Principle 2 in 2023, which made its mark as a standout among PlayStation games. Following that, I delighted in exploring the Road to Elysium DLC in 2024. Now, in 2025, I eagerly revisit the original classic on the PS5 with renewed zeal.
To settle into the game, players will guide their character using the left analog stick for movement, while the right stick helps in surveying the surrounding puzzles. Need to zoom in? Just press the right stick. Sprinting is a breeze—simply hold the R1 button, and jump with the X button. Interaction is straightforward with the L2 button, allowing you to manipulate cubes, switches, jammers, and more. With each passing moment, new elements are woven into gameplay, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience through the extensive content offered.
An unexpected twist in this release is the absence of a Platinum trophy, a notable departure from the PlayStation 4 version. Despite this, the trophy list is richer, with 44 Bronze, 2 Silver, and 2 Gold trophies, broadening the challenge for completionists. New trophy challenges like LOL and Thrice Holy add to the excitement, while others delve into unique aspects of the new and existing content.
In addition to the core game, new trophies exclusive to the In the Beginning chapter add layers of achievement. These include And So It Begins for ascending a tower and It’s Working for solving your first puzzle, promising players a rewarding experience in their quest for completion.
Beyond gameplay and graphics, Developer Commentaries add an enriching layer for players interested in the creative processes behind the game’s development. With an estimated 25-30 hours needed to navigate the main game, the Road to Gehenna DLC, and the new chapter, there’s plenty to keep both new and returning players hooked. Are you ready to embark once more? The game launches today on PlayStation 5.
This review was crafted from a PlayStation 5 copy courtesy of Devolver Digital.
