We were lucky enough to have Xbox send over an early access review code for Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, so you can bet we've been pretty absent from real life over the last few days continuing on Senua's adventures. Now that we can finally talk about it, here's our 100% spoiler free review. I've experienced some incredible stories in gaming over the years, from AAA titles to Indie adventures, but Senua's Saga: Hellblade II manages to carve its own path, leaving me utterly speechless. This isn't me trying to hype a game up, this game is something special and one that now holds a place in my heart.
Right from the opening scenes, the visuals in Hellblade II were surreal and I thought it was going to be CGI cutscenes followed by lower quality gameplay. Wasn't I wrong, as the cutscenes are in real time and everything from combat to dialogue transition between cinematic to gameplay completely unknowingly.
I started my first few hours of Senua's journey on the Xbox Series S console, and it was more than impressive to say the least. The game features a unique locked 2.39:1 aspect ratio to enhance the cinematic effects, so for the rest of the journey, I fired the game up on my PC using an ultrawide monitor, max visual settings and DLSS enabled...well, let's just say screenshots won't do it justice. I'd say this game will be referenced as a benchmark in gaming visuals moving forward and you really need to experience this game for yourself.
Audio is one of the places Hellblade II truly shines. It's not just a recommendation to wear a headset, it's pretty much mandatory. Ninja Theory, the Studio behind Hellblade II, utilized some mind-blowing recording tech to create a truly immersive and one-of-a-kind experience. Senua's journey is aided by some constant companions (voices in her head) and they quickly become your companions too. It's a disorienting and, at times, terrifying experience, but one that's unforgettable.
The combat in Hellblade II is very accessible and easy to pick up, with a simple attack, block, and parry system that feels smooth and responsive. Throw in some heart-pounding, cinematic combat sequences, and you'll see just how much everything ties in together to make the experience so much deeper.
Each chapter throws unique puzzles your way, many relying on visual trickery and perception that tie into Senua's psychosis fueled alterations of reality and can really test what you think you know. Keeping an open mind is key to unraveling these challenges, adding another layer of depth to Senua's already captivating journey.
This is more than just a game; it's a unique experience. In my many many years of gaming, I can confidently say Hellblade II delivers one of the best single-player story experiences I've encountered. Combined with the groundbreaking audio design, it pushes the boundaries of what gaming can achieve and on occasion, what we thought possible.
Overall, Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a showcase of what the Xbox Series consoles and PCs can achieve and if you're looking for a visually stunning, narratively powerful, and downright unforgettable adventure, it's a must-play AAA title. Just remember your headset...and maybe take a deep breath or two before you begin. Did we mention Giants?!
Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is out now on Xbox Series X|S consoles and PC via Game Pass, Microsoft Store and Steam, so go jump in!
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