Returnal Guide | How to Get Reclaimer

Here's a guide to getting Reclaimer in Returnal.

Game Guide by Ragib Rawnak on Dec 02, 2025

As you progress through Returnal, you will encounter two devices with similar names that serve different purposes. Understanding how each one works helps you decide when to use them and whether the risks involved are worthwhile during a run.

Returnal, Guide, How to Get Reclaimer

Where Reclaimers Appear

Both the Reclaimer and the Inert Reclaimer show up randomly in Side Paths across various biomes in Returnal.

You typically come across the Inert Reclaimer earlier, especially in areas like the Overgrown Ruins and the Crimson Wastes. At the same time, the standard Reclaimer begins to appear after you have advanced through several biomes.

Returnal, Guide, How to Get Reclaimer

Inert Reclaimer

You can tell an Inert Reclaimer by its bed-like shape, the green glow it gives off, and the green fog that surrounds it. The device will restore some of your health when you use it. But turning it on can potentially bring attackers into the room.

Because these fights occur within a confined space, using an Inert Reclaimer carries some risk, even though the healing benefit can be useful in difficult runs in Returnal.

Returnal, Guide, How to Get Reclaimer

Normal Reclaimer

The standard Reclaimer looks similar but is marked by red lighting and red fog. Interacting with it causes you to take damage, but there is a chance you receive an artifact or suit artifact in return.

The tradeoff makes the Reclaimer an option when you are willing to sacrifice health for potential upgrades that may support long-term survival through a biome in Returnal.

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