Housemarque will end up being what Fromsoftware is eventually. Something that appeal to a niche audience of hardcore games with really tight annd good feeling gameplay that will get bigger each game release. All they have to do is keep refining the Returnal gameplay in thte same way that Miyazaki has with souls.
Playing demons souls is rough compared to later souls games. Like, i see why more casual players love elden ring compared to DS. There are almost no bonfires or shortcuts, constant skill checks, oppressive atmosphere etc.
Housemarque needs to not make their games easier but a bit more accessible. My biggest problem with Returnal is the permenant upgrades didn’t make you feel more powerful, they need to work on that aspect, or make the runs a bit shorter, or just not do a full on roguelike at all.