Returnal Guide | How to Get Grappling Hook

Here's a guide to getting the Grapling Hook in Returnal.

Game Guide by Ragib Rawnak on Dec 02, 2025

Getting the Icarian Grapnel is required to progress into the third biome in Returnal. You can get this tool only after completing the main objective of the Crimson Wastes, which involves defeating Ixion and reaching the end of the biome.

Returnal, Guide, How to Get Grappling Hook

Defeat Ixion

You encounter Ixion at the summit of the mountain located at the end of the second biome. This fight unfolds across three phases, each tied to one of Ixion’s three health bars in Returnal.

While the structure is similar to other major encounters, Ixion behaves in a less predictable pattern, which makes the sequence more difficult to read as you react to movement and attacks. You must complete all three phases before the path forward becomes available.

Returnal, Guide, How to Get Grappling Hook

Collecting Icarian Grapnel

After you defeat Ixion, you remain on the elevated platform surrounded by several alien remains. Approach the nearby corpse in Returnal and interact with it by holding the interact button.

Doing so grants you the Icarian Grapnel, which functions as a grappling hook and allows you to reach new traversal points throughout later biomes.

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