Returnal: How to Get Grappling Hook

Returnal is very subtle with its inclusion of new game mechanics and abilities, with a grappling hook hinted at during the early sections of the game via some seemingly impossible to reach platforms with a glowing orange light. These orange lights are actually grapple points, and when you unlock the grappling hook, you can latch onto them to discover new areas and items which will certainly help you become more powerful and make your run a bit easier. Here’s how to get the grappling hook in Returnal.

How to Get Grappling Hook in Returnal

The grappling hook is achieved by beating the second boss, Ixion. This boss is encountered at the end of the second biome, Crimson Wastes, and can prove to be quite the challenge to take down; see our guide for some tips on how to beat Ixion.

In order to actually reach the second boss though, you’ll need to reach the second biome by beating the first boss and biome beforehand. The first biome, Overgrown Ruins, may actually be slightly more difficult than the second, due to the tight corridors and enclosed spaces, compared with the open expanse of the second biome. Once you’ve beat Phrike, the first boss, you’ll get access to the Crimson Key which will open the Crimson Gate, letting you into the second biome, Crimson Wastes.

From here, you’ll need to progress through the biome and reach the top of the mountain to face Ixion. Be mindful that if you die in the second biome though, you’ll go all the way back to the start of biome one (but you won’t need to beat any bosses again that you’ve already beaten). Once you beat Ixion, you’ll get the grappling hook, which is a permanent unlock so even if you die, you will still keep it for future runs.

Returnal is available now on PS5.