Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1461 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,097 out of 1461
  2. Mixed: 178 out of 1461
  3. Negative: 186 out of 1461
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  1. Dronozoider
    Aug 8, 2017
    8
    A good and oppressive atmosphere. Great sound. Good graphics. Great story. Great puzzles.
    There would be more studios like Ninja Theory, who put their souls into their projects, despite the limited budget.
  2. Kusaha
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Ninja Theory gives exactly what they promised! Epic story, beautiful visuals, triple a quality. Great experience especially for this price! I really recommend checking out the dev diaries on youtube before jumping into the game, so you could appreciate the game even more.
  3. alkimistaaa
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Hellblade is a slap in the face of the giant and greedy publishers, for the sake of the game industry i hope this game will be a success in critics and sales.I highly recommend it if you love games that can be more than just fun experiences...a true work of art and i hope to see more indie developers
  4. C3realkillah
    Aug 8, 2017
    9
    One of the best indie games ive ever played. A deeply emotional and beautifully told story, some of the best fighting animations ive seen in a game, phenomenal art direction, and amazing atmosphere and setting. I still cant believe it was only $30. I highly recommend it if you love games that can be more than just fun experiences...a true work of art and i hope to see more indie developersOne of the best indie games ive ever played. A deeply emotional and beautifully told story, some of the best fighting animations ive seen in a game, phenomenal art direction, and amazing atmosphere and setting. I still cant believe it was only $30. I highly recommend it if you love games that can be more than just fun experiences...a true work of art and i hope to see more indie developers learn from ninja theory's successful project. 9/10… Expand
  5. Greysteel
    Aug 8, 2017
    9
    I get it. Prior to release I only saw the self punished madness the developer's threw at the trailers and thought this game was nothing more than a show reel. But I get it now. Under all the motion capture and voice layer beats an independent heart. It's an enthralling and oppressive tale of a poisoned mind fighting vivid nightmares for stakes the player only really starts to appreciateI get it. Prior to release I only saw the self punished madness the developer's threw at the trailers and thought this game was nothing more than a show reel. But I get it now. Under all the motion capture and voice layer beats an independent heart. It's an enthralling and oppressive tale of a poisoned mind fighting vivid nightmares for stakes the player only really starts to appreciate when they reach the end game. It paces well, punishes players who are too weak and not dedicated enough to rise to it's puzzles and combat and rewards those who triumph with a genuinely very good little title you can buy at a good price on release.… Expand
  6. AreYouSerious
    Aug 10, 2017
    9
    One thing I'll never understand is when a gamer who likes FPS's, who wants to kill something every 2 seconds, gets annoyed with a game like this, when they can't?

    Are peoples eyes painted on? Do they not watch the trailers? The game is exactly what they told us it would be - and something truly unique and special. Saying that, it's utterly disturbing and totally messed up... but in    One thing I'll never understand is when a gamer who likes FPS's, who wants to kill something every 2 seconds, gets annoyed with a game like this, when they can't?

    Are peoples eyes painted on? Do they not watch the trailers?

    The game is exactly what they told us it would be - and something truly unique and special. Saying that, it's utterly disturbing and totally messed up... but in an amazing, engaging, can't-take-your-eyes-off-the-screen, type of way. I couldn't stop playing, and knocked it out in one 8 hour session... not something any other game has managed to get from me before.

    Is it perfect? No. I found there were some pacing issues and graphical inconsistencies. But as an overall experience - and for only $30 - you can'y go wrong.

    If you want something different, this will satisfy your needs.    … Expand
  7. PewPewMatt
    Aug 10, 2017
    10
    Created this account just to write a review.

    Never have I been made to experience anyone's perception of a mental illness like schizophrenia, and yet this game does it in an entertaining and 'user friendly' way. The game draws you into Senua's mind, instantly facing you with questions about Senua and her story. The game gradually progresses further and further into Senua's mind,    Created this account just to write a review.

    Never have I been made to experience anyone's perception of a mental illness like schizophrenia, and yet this game does it in an entertaining and 'user friendly' way.

    The game draws you into Senua's mind, instantly facing you with questions about Senua and her story. The game gradually progresses further and further into Senua's mind, learning more about her 'illness' and making you ask more and more questions.

    More about the game. The combat is fairly basic, yet feels very rewarding when you manage to best your opponents despite the odds. This is helped by the appearance and sounds of the horrors that you face and the numbers of enemies that you may be put up against.

    The art style is absolutely fantastic, you can tell that the developers have put MASSIVE amounts of not only care, but love into this game as in some cases, the amount of detail they have gone into could be seen as unnecessary but part of the reason that you feel so much for Senua, is because she is so human. The motion capture is top notch and the actress has done an absolute fantastic job of making you feel like she is real.

    The soundtrack and audio has been perfected and sounds absolutely incredible even without having to use expensive audio equipment and helps to make you feel isolated and stranded.

    All around, this game is a work of art, if I could, I would have rated this higher.

    I have been absolutely blown away by Ninja Theory. From the start of development, I was intrigued, to now where I am in love with both the story and Senua.    … Expand
  8. BananaLuiz
    Aug 8, 2017
    9
    One of the most different and immersive experiences I've had this year, stunning storytelling, enigmatic , magnificent audio engineering and beautiful graphics with well-modeled characters and incredibly realistic facial expressions, excellent
  9. GavinC543
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    As a 22 year old male dealing with his fair share of tragic aftermaths, I can honestly say that this game has been one giant mixed array of emotions. Somehow I was both slumped into, and, on the edge of my seat. It has been one strangely comforting, heavy, meditative journey through the psyche of a psychologically fragile person walking from one end of her self-prolonged imprisoningAs a 22 year old male dealing with his fair share of tragic aftermaths, I can honestly say that this game has been one giant mixed array of emotions. Somehow I was both slumped into, and, on the edge of my seat. It has been one strangely comforting, heavy, meditative journey through the psyche of a psychologically fragile person walking from one end of her self-prolonged imprisoning 'ordeal', to the other.

    It can be pretty damn daunting for for some 'odd' low-key types to make it threw a day without being bombarded with various perspectives from what we perceive to be solely sourced externally (from other people). Depending on the individual, and their circumstances, it can lead to things such as heavy drug use, verbal or physical abuse, and even self- harm.

    Thank you Ninja Theory for successfully giving us a look into the complexities of mental health in such a widely regarded medium, whilst staying true to developing a damn finely tuned game with masterfully done cinematography, effects and chillingly accurate voice-overs that have you standing firmly behind this character every step of the way.

    Will definitely play a second time.

    10/10.    … Expand
  10. Franzella
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Senua's Sacrifice it's a unique game which mixes well consolidated elements with smart innovations. The story will make you struggle and cry. Hellblade sets a new standard for indie games.
  11. AaronA
    Aug 9, 2017
    9
    You know a review is fake if it complains about wasting $60 because the game only costs $30...
    Otherwise, this is one of the most unique, emotionally fresh, graphically pleasing, unnerving experiences of all time. I did not even know about this game until a coupe days ago, and I bought it already. That was the fastest discovery-to-purchase time for any game in my library.
  12. NickCrit
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Surprisingly good for a small studio aiming to develop smaller triple AAA title. It's sorta a new type of genre experience, some type of mental psychosis - you need a really good surround sound system or a headphone to get the best experience as the sounds and voices are important piece of the game experience.
  13. Sodo33
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    "Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice" is truly and amazing game.

    For me the best part is the narration, you need to play on headphones to catch everything what is going on in there. This is important because you will get an important clues and information about the places and Senua life/situation. The art and sounds are very climate and very fit to the situation. The combat system is    "Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice" is truly and amazing game.

    For me the best part is the narration, you need to play on headphones to catch everything what is going on in there.
    This is important because you will get an important clues and information about the places and Senua life/situation.

    The art and sounds are very climate and very fit to the situation.

    The combat system is really nice. We don't have any HP bars for us or for enemies, we just fight till we kill. It's better to avoid not needed hits because you can't know which one will be lethal for you ;p

    And of course the story.

    >>>
    From the makers of Heavenly Sword, Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, and DmC: Devil May Cry, comes a warrior’s brutal journey into myth and madness. Set in the Viking age, a broken Celtic warrior embarks on a haunting vision quest into Viking Hell to fight for the soul of her dead lover.    … Expand
  14. arijitfrens2006
    Aug 8, 2017
    9
    This game focus mental illness which terrifying to be honest. It's remind me of Spec Op The Line which also focus psychological and morality. Spec Op The Line haunted me because the loading screen quote : "This is all your fault" and the music sound terrifying. Hellblade will push Senua psychology to the test.
  15. werewolf3d
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Industry needs games like this .......................................................................................................................
  16. Kurigosh
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Awesome game. its one of the best indie games made in my opinion. Besides all of the good combat and intriguing story, the game has lots of serious topics and original points of view never made into AAA like video games ( this is basically a AAA indie ). Just buy it and help ninja theory show that you don't need to spend 2 million to make a good game, and you don't need to charge 60 bucks for it.
  17. badgerryan19
    Aug 8, 2017
    9
    Wow what a great game. As many people along side with me has been watching this game come to life by the Dev Dairies. The game has gone through massive changes over the years and it shows by the polish and improvement overall. I love what Ninja Theory is trying to do with the whole indie game but an AAA product and I hope that developers start to experiment with this strategy as well. NowWow what a great game. As many people along side with me has been watching this game come to life by the Dev Dairies. The game has gone through massive changes over the years and it shows by the polish and improvement overall. I love what Ninja Theory is trying to do with the whole indie game but an AAA product and I hope that developers start to experiment with this strategy as well. Now onto the game. The voice acting and the presentation/graphics are stunning and Ninja Theory should be commended on there work with such a low budget. The story is so fascinating and how realized psychosis is in the game. The illness is very well implemented into the game too. During combat the voices can yell behind you, or focus. And finish him and end it so you can know when to charge in for that final blow. The combat I really like but I can see people wouldn't because it is a little simplistic, but it wasn't necessarily needed to progress the story. The game heavily relies on cutscenes and cinematic presentation which is always a plus in my book and clearly makes sense why is a PS4 console exclusive, since Sony loves its cinematic gameplay presentations. The game can be beaten in roughly 5-6 hours but the game is very unique and something different and I think if people would give it a chance and help support Ninja Theory they will like it. And heck for $30 you can't go wrong with that.… Expand
  18. BlakDak666
    Aug 8, 2017
    8
    Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a very bold game and experience to say the least. Trying to have players go through the mindset of a person suffering from psychosis is something that the in-game documentary tries to address as a modern taboo and no-no when portrayed in media of any kind. There is plenty that this game will do that can frustrate players. Then again, if the point of the gameHellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a very bold game and experience to say the least. Trying to have players go through the mindset of a person suffering from psychosis is something that the in-game documentary tries to address as a modern taboo and no-no when portrayed in media of any kind. There is plenty that this game will do that can frustrate players. Then again, if the point of the game is to play with a mentally unstable person and expect to be mentally messed like they are, then I have to say Ninja Theory did their job in that department.

    Senua's Sacrifice is a third-person psychological/action adventure that puts the player in the role of Senua who has a journey into the depths of her psychosis in a attempt to save her lover. It's really crazy and sometimes really throws unexpected surprises at the player. You have three core things to do in the game: do puzzles by walking around while also listening to optional Nordic lore that ties to the culture Senua is apart of, cutscenes and combat. Let's critique puzzles first.

    Puzzles range from aligning objects to form symbols, running through ritual gates to produce new things and a couple other ones that are best saved for seeing for yourself. They range from boring to great, but the overall variety and quality is decent. It's unfortunate that there wasn't some more clever puzzles that the second half nails, but it gets the job done. A couple frustrated me however and I would like to say that it can be tedious and feel like the pacing is slowed. It doesn't either that Senua moves a little slow in my opinion so even running the whole way is barely passing for consistent pacing (unless you can't figure out the puzzles, in which you can get very upset and feel not compelled to play anymore).

    Cutscenes do a great job transitioning from gameplay and it's amazing how well done Senua's mocap actress is. Her delivery and performance is something to commend and often I felt a bit guilty of pushing her forward and looking directly at me even though she is talking to her own voices. The other characters (of which there is only 4) do a solid job at delivery as well, but the clear star is Senua. The voices played in her head are a bit conflicting for me. On on hand it fits the narrative and can surprisingly be useful when engaging in combat and progressing through certain puzzles. On the other, they can be annoying to listen to and considering the game wants you to listen to it best with headphones, it could drive you insane. Once again though, that has to be the point for the premise of the game. Does it excuse the fun of the game? That's purely subjective. In my experience, I found it just fine and by the end felt sorta attached to it.

    Combat is very interesting. Since the game only shows the controls in the start screen, there is no buttons or prompts when playing. The lack of a HUD and going off adapting to the controls with no tutorial is a great way to immerse yourself in games, so Senua's Sacrifice benefits from this already. The main combat itself is good, sometimes very good, but not great. You have weak and strong attacks with kicks, dodges, shielding and parrying that you can do in combos, with perfect timings on parries let you do a satisfying counterattack. The enemy placement and variety is surprisingly good, with a nice progression all the way to the end being an absolute blast to play, but also really feeling relief after the struggles of puzzles and Senua's toiled mentality. It can be quite hard though in later levels for players due to the amount of enemies on screen. It's a test to overcome and as a player for challenging games like Dark Souls and Devil May Cry, I was happy with the multiple targets, but understand gripes from more casual gamers that try it not knowing how hard it is.

    Overall, the game's three pillars work well enough where I think the game is good (occasionally great), but a few other standouts are here too. The visuals look great aside from the grainy texture on the screen, the music is not too bad and the audio is rock solid from sword twangs to thunder booms. The game does have some bugs and considering this is a game that stresses consequences for dying with a mechanic I won't say this can be maddening, so clearly this needs patched asap.

    What I like about Senua's Sacrifice is that it's bold with its concepts and even implementation. We often have badass demon slayers and gods fighting demons, getting laid and being goofy so seeing a woman going through misery and making her conflicts against herself is a rare treat that hasnt been well replicated since Walker in Spec Ops: The Line. This won't appease everyone, but for those that want to try something new, bold and not spend too much money, this game should cover you. With a price of $30 with 6-8 hours of gameplay, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a welcoming and insightful journey of madness, depression and psychological trauma.    … Expand
  19. Beatboxer44
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    I'm amazed at how much garbage reviews are on this from people who probably haven't even actually played it and are just being crybabys about the fact that it isn't a game that has an explosion every 5 minutes as as a posed to something that actually recquires actual thinking to enjoy. Metacritic seriously need to fix this s**t honest to god.
  20. subcontracting
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Script and Senua are amazing! Solid 10! Like a breath of fresh air between weak every year shooters and MMOs. Price are damnly fair! Story very intim and give a feel of what happens.
  21. matrixasiseefit
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    Absolutely amazing game. Hellblade knows it's audience and does not cater to the casual demographic. I'm used to playing games that have punishing consequences for failure so Hellblade's supposed permadeath feature is welcomed in my book. Not to mention is only $30, well worth the price.
  22. FranchuteKikito
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    I got to say I am so happy an Indie Developer would take the challenge to make this types of games, it couldn't have been easy and i don't know if is going to sell well, but i think is a master piece and hope the best for this developers and this game.
  23. GuilleaumeCluz
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    Great and unexpected game. A valiant effort to make a different game: mental illnes, rare to view pacing, a very beliable main character, cool acting, etc. Great and very polished combat, inspired by Dark Souls but improved and with a lot better animations. And the game is technically great, almost AAA graphics in an indie game. Great sound too. I think the industry needs more games likeGreat and unexpected game. A valiant effort to make a different game: mental illnes, rare to view pacing, a very beliable main character, cool acting, etc. Great and very polished combat, inspired by Dark Souls but improved and with a lot better animations. And the game is technically great, almost AAA graphics in an indie game. Great sound too. I think the industry needs more games like Hellblade: valient, risky and made with love.… Expand
  24. Temporary1990
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    Absolutely beautiful graphics, fluid combat, and a game with very unique background. Perma-death system though can be a bi*ch to deal with for some. A game with very different genre from those that we have heard so far.
  25. srknbyz
    Aug 10, 2017
    4
    Puzzles for children and for just waste your time over and over again. Fight against same things hundred times. Weak story and expected ending. Just graphics and atmosphere good. Seriously couldn't find out what's this hype for.
  26. Amocoru
    Aug 9, 2017
    4
    Generic enemies you'll see over and over again with almost no change. The game feels like you're solving the same puzzle every level. The combat is just spamming the attack button and sometimes rolling. I don't care if it's an Indie company. Too much went into graphics and gameplay suffers because of it.
  27. portmanteau
    Aug 8, 2017
    3
    drudging,dour, linear, clunky and not at all fun, at least for me. Buyer beware, this is a Psychosis simulator & partially playable ( basically on-rails ) story. The swordplay, is not bad.. but the movements are leaden and heavy. I can imagine a lot of people will get much out of the skillfully rendered atmosphere, but for me the intensity is not balanced out with the gameplay, you cannotdrudging,dour, linear, clunky and not at all fun, at least for me. Buyer beware, this is a Psychosis simulator & partially playable ( basically on-rails ) story. The swordplay, is not bad.. but the movements are leaden and heavy. I can imagine a lot of people will get much out of the skillfully rendered atmosphere, but for me the intensity is not balanced out with the gameplay, you cannot traverse simple obstacles, you plod along, and if the story is your main goal, great, if not... look elsewhere. I can see why it's digital only, no refunds.… Expand
  28. NotMyFinalForm
    Aug 8, 2017
    1
    If you're expecting good gameplay then just avoid this game. This is just another highly pretentious and cinematic walking simulator with brainead puzzles and combat being overrated by hipsters.
  29. jro3001
    Aug 9, 2017
    0
    Bafflingly stupid puzzles. Combat straight out of Infinity Blade. I used to really dig Ninja Theory but this is just terrible and i won't bother with them ever again. Wish I'd gotten this on Steam instead of PS4 so i could get a refund.
  30. beanofwar
    Aug 10, 2017
    2
    Chattering voices, while part of the story, are annoying. The movement is extremely slow and cumbersome. The viewpoint for 3rd person is way too close to the character, and kind of makes me queasy to watch for too long. The combat is very basic (rhythm combat style with obvious visual queues of when to block vs dodge) and very basic attack strategies. Slow walking/jogging duringChattering voices, while part of the story, are annoying. The movement is extremely slow and cumbersome. The viewpoint for 3rd person is way too close to the character, and kind of makes me queasy to watch for too long. The combat is very basic (rhythm combat style with obvious visual queues of when to block vs dodge) and very basic attack strategies. Slow walking/jogging during exploration/puzzle sections. Beautiful looking game, but I'm ready to turn it off and never come back.… Expand
  31. Kaioh
    Aug 8, 2017
    1
    You can:
    - run or walk
    - fight guys with bad FOV
    - solve stupid puzzles
    You can't
    - understand a stupid cryptic plot
    - play as a white oppressed man

    Do not waste your time and money. Also, ending was ****
  32. Puzonli
    Aug 8, 2017
    0
    The most boring game as of late. I almost fell asleep during intro, then several repetitive identical puzzles make me yawn some times. Аfter that I closed the game and run Devil May Cry.
    Dull combat system, it's boring walking simulator. And normal people play games for gameplay, if want a picture - there are movies, if want a plot - there are books.
  33. jdellama
    Aug 8, 2017
    0
    I have really been looking forward to this game. I sat down to play it and was amazed at the graphics and atmosphere. Shortly after the opening, we (as the player) are warned that you can only die a few times and the game is over. OK, I am sure they factor in a learning curve, right? So I am on the 3rd fire gate (less than 45 minutes into the game). You have to run from the idol throughI have really been looking forward to this game. I sat down to play it and was amazed at the graphics and atmosphere. Shortly after the opening, we (as the player) are warned that you can only die a few times and the game is over. OK, I am sure they factor in a learning curve, right? So I am on the 3rd fire gate (less than 45 minutes into the game). You have to run from the idol through the fire to the next door. So far, I have died 6 times trying to get from one end to the other. The first time, I got trapped in the fire. 2 times, I fell off the board into the fire, and 3 times, the monsters got me. so, as I see it, i paid $60 for less than 1hr. I will not replay this. Awesome graphics, great combat, but this death thing is retarded. I would give this a full FAIL!… Expand
  34. Road_Dogg
    Aug 8, 2017
    1
    Hellblade: Senuas's Sacrifice can kill you!
    Why? This game is boring af. The game is slow, you just walk for 50min then you use your sword for 3min and then walk again. BORING FEST!
  35. Ghoster
    Jul 29, 2018
    3
    This game was during release compared to Tomb Raider games. Don't know why, but it's nothing like TR! While TR is action packed game full of action this one is walking simulator where you - well, walk! Walking with some puzzles which are always the same. There is really small amount of fight after each hour of walking and watching sequences. Problem is in fight is - it's bad doneThis game was during release compared to Tomb Raider games. Don't know why, but it's nothing like TR! While TR is action packed game full of action this one is walking simulator where you - well, walk! Walking with some puzzles which are always the same. There is really small amount of fight after each hour of walking and watching sequences. Problem is in fight is - it's bad done (developers should play Dark Souls for a while to check how fight should be done properly). Most disappointing is ending with probably worst boss fight ever which last forever followed.
    Maybe for somebody who was prepared this game is walking simulator and not real game experience was better, but overall not good at all.

    Only thing AWESOME in this game is voice acting. I loved inner voice and specially Shadow voice! Two thumbs up for that!    … Expand
  36. ilovelawforever
    Oct 27, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What a wonderful experience.Great graphics and immersion.Must play game for single player game lovers and those who love story driven games.… Expand
  37. archaim
    Jul 6, 2020
    8
    Игра не идеальна, но хороша. В ней есть уникальные особенности, которые вас зацепят.
    Очень радует подход разработчиков, которые создали высококачественное приключение за сравнительно небольшие деньги. Так держать.
  38. Bizancio_Askatu
    Apr 5, 2021
    7
    Hellblade is a strange game. Some of the key points like atmosphere, Senua facial movements and voice acting are superb, but others like combat, puzzles and rhythm are just barely acceptable, and they are sadly the core of this videogame.
    Sometimes I felt like playing a walking simulator with some tiresome "find the shape" puzzles and suddenly I am in the middle of a fight against huge    Hellblade is a strange game. Some of the key points like atmosphere, Senua facial movements and voice acting are superb, but others like combat, puzzles and rhythm are just barely acceptable, and they are sadly the core of this videogame.
    Sometimes I felt like playing a walking simulator with some tiresome "find the shape" puzzles and suddenly I am in the middle of a fight against huge Northmen not remembering the combat controls as I have not used them during the last 2,5 hours.
    The trick of the Furies voices gets tiring fast and after 4 hours i was really annoyed about them.
    Also the trial and error part of escaping the labyrinth is a horrible design idea as is using real actors footage.
    As a summary, i would said that only the awesome acting of Melina Juergens, the graphics and the atmosphere save this game.    … Expand
  39. michaelb1928
    Jun 13, 2019
    6
    Really tried to like this game but the gameplay just didnt do it for me, initially the game starts out really strong, the atmosphere they build is fantastic with one of the best openings ive ever played in a game, but after the first boss "room" where the gameplay consisted of boring tedious puzzle solving with some good if not basic combat i thought that was a good idea for that roomReally tried to like this game but the gameplay just didnt do it for me, initially the game starts out really strong, the atmosphere they build is fantastic with one of the best openings ive ever played in a game, but after the first boss "room" where the gameplay consisted of boring tedious puzzle solving with some good if not basic combat i thought that was a good idea for that room hoping to see more mechanics in the next but unfortunately the rest of the game is filled with these boring puzzles that involve you walking around at a really slow pace looking for glyphs, The story itself was interesting and i did keep with it far enough but i was never really invested in it and later on after yet another door presented me with 3 glyphs to go find i decided to drop it, i imagine i was very close to the end but my heart at that stage was not in it and that door was the tipping point, i can understand why people would like this game if they can overlook or maybe actually enjoy the puzzle solving mechanic but its simply not for me, thhe game isnt bad, im giving it a fair score in my opinion as it has a great concept although the main protagonists performance was fairly shoddy and i never felt anything for her other than annoyance at her ear screeches that consistently made me have to turrn down the volume on my headphones. Combat as i said earlier was fun but very basic, there is no difference in it later on in the game except the variance in enemies and how many get thrown at you at once. Overall not a bad game , good ideas, great atmosphere, boring gameplay… Expand
  40. pm2k
    Jul 14, 2020
    10
    Неожиданно крутая игра, которая своей атмосферой, подачей и эмоциями отбивает высший балл на раз.
  41. nyxkahos
    Apr 17, 2019
    5
    I honestly wanted to love this game. The trailers I saw or clips that were available seemed amazing. I refuse to watch streamers or game plays of most games because I want the experience to be completely new to me. So i decided to buy it on steam for a birthday gift to myself. Really wish I had knew the return policy for steam, since i have never returned or requested a refund. Until II honestly wanted to love this game. The trailers I saw or clips that were available seemed amazing. I refuse to watch streamers or game plays of most games because I want the experience to be completely new to me. So i decided to buy it on steam for a birthday gift to myself. Really wish I had knew the return policy for steam, since i have never returned or requested a refund. Until I played this game. It seemed real interesting and I was loving to intro of the game at first. It had the whole Getting you into the schizo mood and setting the stage. But for how close you are stuck over the shoulder of the character felt annoying, would of been nice to scoot back just a bit. I didnt need the character fully in front of me but I didnt like feeling like a parrot over the shoulder, it felt almost nauseating at times. Getting the clips of audio from stones was nice and even the visual clips of a person talking to you. The one thing I ended up hating quickly was the endless letter searching and the stupid fighting. At some point I was hoping for just a little something different to kind of switch it up, but it felt like endless repetition. I own and have played Dark Souls, which is what some people had compared the fighting to in some reviews but I honestly feel the fighting in this game was far worse. In DS you could at least learn the technique for what you were fighting and beat it. Monster after Monster on Senua's sacrifice was the same thing one after the other till I finally turned it off. In DS you could at least move left to right an maneuver an inch but in Senua's Sacrifice all you have is forward and back. You can not really turn or step left or right so if you have a monster behind you and one in front, or ends up next to you, you cant do anything. Blocking doesnt always work either. Its either block and hope it works or block and it doesnt work at all. What I loved to hear was a voice stating to "remember your training"...What training? This character obviously never had any and was just born because all the character is allowed to do is step forward and back in fighting. I love to play an array of games so when I bought this one I was already playing something else. So sadly couldnt get store credit or money back for this game because I didnt get to it and start it till 2 months later. This is Sadly the first and ONLY game I have ever played in my life that I disliked so much since i started playing games on PC in the late 90s. I give it 5 for creativity and graphics. But it felt like it missed a lot of substance story wise for a beginning and the limited fighting movements were complete garbage. I badly wanted to emerge myself in this game and love it, but it felt like an inexperience EX who was good at story telling but no idea what they were doing. Not appealing enough to want to keep up with or ever return to.… Expand
  42. ZoltonMD
    Jun 13, 2020
    10
    Прекрасная работа Ninja's Theory. Просто поражает созданная атмосфера и особенно звуковое сопровождение.
  43. simon574
    Apr 12, 2020
    6
    TL;DR: Atmosphere is good, gameplay is bad. This would work better as a film.
    I really like the theme and presentation of this game. The graphics are beautiful, and the main character has a very wide range of facial expressions. The story is so-so, the game tries to portray psychosis and mental illness. Senua is constantly hearing voices, and very convincingly so. At the same time she is    TL;DR: Atmosphere is good, gameplay is bad. This would work better as a film.
    I really like the theme and presentation of this game. The graphics are beautiful, and the main character has a very wide range of facial expressions. The story is so-so, the game tries to portray psychosis and mental illness. Senua is constantly hearing voices, and very convincingly so. At the same time she is portrayed as a warrior in a weird norse mythology fantasy world, which sometimes gets in the way of the "mental illness" theme, I feel they want to show me two different things at once.
    Speaking about gameplay, it's terrible for the most part. The surroundings look accessible at first glance, then you discover all the invisible barriers. Sometimes Senua can duck under a wooden bar or crouch under a rock (scripted!), but generally the tiniest rocks can act like an unsurmountable wall because the level designer said so. I managed to soft-lock the game once when I tried to go somewhere I wasn't supposed to and Senua was stuck between invisible barriers.
    There are about 5 different enemies you have to fight over and over again. The game expects you to fight like a robot, you have to press the right button on cue or you're dead. In my RL experience (martial arts) you have to be creative and try different things to find your opponent's weaknesses. In Hellblade, the enemies are primitive state machines which don't take the player's actions into account.
    Then there are some rune puzzles, where you have to "find" certain patterns in the level geometry or have to align shapes by altering your position and camera angle. I feel this is completely scripted too as in more than one occasion I have aligned the shapes correctly but the game wouldn't accept it. When I moved around a bit, and ended up with a slightly worse solution the game would happily spawn the missing part of a bridge or light up a rune. I then figured out the controller vibrates when you stand at the "right" position, making this a lot easier but at the same time less enjoyable. If you want to see a game where a similar mechanic is executed masterfully, play "The Witness".
    I still played through the game and had a good time for the most part, just lower your expectations when it comes to gameplay mechanics.    … Expand
  44. VadChe
    Jul 23, 2020
    10
    Люта гра, настількі- що можно і не повернутися) І це зовсім не жарт. Оці моторошні голоси, звукові галюцинації зроблені за допомогою бінаурального запису та скаженні візуальні ефекти можуть реально підірвати дах. Такій собі мікс з скандінавської мифології та психіатрії, розробники зробили справжній шедевр. Але не раджу дуже глибоко занурюватися та надовго залипати, бо може викликатиЛюта гра, настількі- що можно і не повернутися) І це зовсім не жарт. Оці моторошні голоси, звукові галюцинації зроблені за допомогою бінаурального запису та скаженні візуальні ефекти можуть реально підірвати дах. Такій собі мікс з скандінавської мифології та психіатрії, розробники зробили справжній шедевр. Але не раджу дуже глибоко занурюватися та надовго залипати, бо може викликати психоз. Ну а що, якщо мала Сенуа рулить в Хельхейм і тягне з собою відрубану голову свого коханого Ділліона, вважаючи, що зможе повернути його з мертвих. І все це піпець, як мотрошно до усирачкі… Expand
  45. Millymolly
    Jul 21, 2020
    9
    Звук отличные, по уровню звука таких игр просто нет, графически игра смотрится отлично, головоломки тоже показались интересными, боевка хороша, но ее мало, но для triple I игры, ожидать чего-то большего просто непозволительно. Игра отличная.Звук отличные, по уровню звука таких игр просто нет, графически игра смотрится отлично, головоломки тоже показались интересными, боевка хороша, но ее мало, но для triple I игры, ожидать чего-то большего просто непозволительно. Игра отличная.
  46. Igorkurochki
    Dec 12, 2020
    10
    Невероятная графика и аудио. Великолепные саунтреки. Невероятная лицевая анимация и великолепная главная героиня.
    Сюжет - выше всяких похвал. Это настоящее исскуство. Все кто ставил еденицы - добро пожаловать в кол оф дьюти дебилы    Невероятная графика и аудио. Великолепные саунтреки. Невероятная лицевая анимация и великолепная главная героиня.
    Сюжет - выше всяких похвал. Это настоящее исскуство. Все кто ставил еденицы - добро пожаловать в кол оф дьюти дебилы
  47. Beelfro
    Jan 16, 2022
    4
    After really enjoying "A Plague's Tale: Innocence" I wanted more of that dark moody stuff. So I Googled "Games similar to..." and this game came out as the first result. After very briefly reading one of the many stellar reviews, I purchased the game.

    Right after the first few seconds, some voices in my head started telling me that this was going to be an amazing game. Until I had to    After really enjoying "A Plague's Tale: Innocence" I wanted more of that dark moody stuff. So I Googled "Games similar to..." and this game came out as the first result. After very briefly reading one of the many stellar reviews, I purchased the game.

    Right after the first few seconds, some voices in my head started telling me that this was going to be an amazing game. Until I had to actually start playing.

    Mindlessly mash some buttons whenever a baddie appears in front of you, slump around like a headless chicken trying to find shapes in the environment to open gates, rinse and repeat.

    And the most baffling thing about this game, is that you can lose your savegame if you get killed too often, with no option to turn that off in the settings (AFAIK). In a game this boring? Having to slump through the whole thing again? No effin way.

    I ended up "playing" this thing with a walkthrough constantly open on my tablet, until I decided to simply not bother anymore.

    In my opinion, this is an experience more than it is a game. I would have actually enjoyed just walking around, taking in the dark yet beautiful scenery, and interacting with the lorestones for some Valhallian history. The developers could at least have included that as an option. It seems to me that this would be the perfect game for that. It would at least justify the full price I paid for it (40$ CAD).

    But, unlike Senua, I don't feel like making the sacrifice of slumping through this, just because I splurged the full price for it.
    Now, those voices in my head are laughing at me, saying "he just wasted 40$, heehee", and I keep seeing red dollar sign shapes everywhere.    … Expand
  48. Males123
    Aug 13, 2017
    9
    Hellblade is a unique action/adventure/puzzle game what makes the game stand out from the rest is you get to see the Journey trough the eyes of senua in a Viking setting she suffers from mental illness and psykosis IT makes the story really compelling many go in to the game expecting a full on action game and get dissapointed IF you go in to the game with an open mind IT got better andHellblade is a unique action/adventure/puzzle game what makes the game stand out from the rest is you get to see the Journey trough the eyes of senua in a Viking setting she suffers from mental illness and psykosis IT makes the story really compelling many go in to the game expecting a full on action game and get dissapointed IF you go in to the game with an open mind IT got better and better the further in i got i recommend you play IT with headphones For full immersion !… Expand
  49. Sesshomurai
    Aug 29, 2017
    9
    I don't know where to even begin with this. But I'll start with first impressions. This game looks amazing. Far better than big studio productions lately. A true breakthrough in quality and with recent games like Zero Dawn, I thought the bar was set high. It has been reset again. Soon after playing you notice the game provides no HUD or out-of-scene visuals, cues, notifications (other thanI don't know where to even begin with this. But I'll start with first impressions. This game looks amazing. Far better than big studio productions lately. A true breakthrough in quality and with recent games like Zero Dawn, I thought the bar was set high. It has been reset again. Soon after playing you notice the game provides no HUD or out-of-scene visuals, cues, notifications (other than saving). it doesn't hold you hand, provide you with numbers to obsess over. There's no inventory, no crates or barrels to loot. No gear to gawk over, none of that. This game ventures off in a bold new direction. The vision and bravery of this small team to conceive of an experience (I don't even call it a game) so profound, thrilling, confusing and contemplative as this, is just remarkable. I remove my hat and bow to these visionaries.

    This experience centers on a woman, her past, her lost love, her journey into the depths of her mind. It uses metaphor to paint a landscape that is cold, vast and often confusing and frustrating to convey the very emotions the narrative embodies. This brings you into the character. Even though it is 3rd person, you are immersed in this story, which is one of pain and suffering. But also one of determination, faith in oneself and strength. I can see how the layers of this game may not be appreciated by true "gamers". To really appreciate this title, like you would any true piece of art, one must reflect on it. And on oneself. It is an introspective journey.

    This game touches your senses, emotions and thoughts in different ways simultaneously. The stark, solemn and empty world separated by amazingly intense combat, juxtaposed by puzzles that emerge from the subtle shapes and illusions of the world around you.

    This experience is not about diversity, gameplay, looting, or skills. Those things matter to traditional type games where you are the "player". This game is something entirely different. It's an interactive narrative,. a struggle; a rethinking of genres, groundbreaking.    … Expand
  50. GamergodsFail
    Aug 13, 2017
    9
    Aside from a few small bugs sprinkled here and there, Hellblade is a groundbreaking achievement in the gaming industry. It is the new golden standard in terms of how far games can go at delivering such a powerful and personal narrative, enough to really make me feel a strong connection to all the mental suffering and anguish that this poor girl was going through. It is a game aboutAside from a few small bugs sprinkled here and there, Hellblade is a groundbreaking achievement in the gaming industry. It is the new golden standard in terms of how far games can go at delivering such a powerful and personal narrative, enough to really make me feel a strong connection to all the mental suffering and anguish that this poor girl was going through. It is a game about struggling to cope with loss, and is an absolute masterpiece and a true work of art.

    9.5/10, would be a 10 if they can patch all the technical issues.    … Expand
  51. That_DL_Kid
    Oct 2, 2017
    7
    This is a graphically beautiful game with a great storyline. It is too bad that gameplay couldn't keep up. I loved the fighting mechanics and all the fights but I found them to be spread too far apart. I also found myself not knowing where to go several times and that frustrated me. I found finding runes to open doors very boring and it makes up most of the game. They game had a lot ofThis is a graphically beautiful game with a great storyline. It is too bad that gameplay couldn't keep up. I loved the fighting mechanics and all the fights but I found them to be spread too far apart. I also found myself not knowing where to go several times and that frustrated me. I found finding runes to open doors very boring and it makes up most of the game. They game had a lot of good qualities but I don't think it lived up to the hype and I don't feel I got my money's worth from it. Wait for it to go on sale if you really want to play it.… Expand
  52. Mihawkii
    Aug 12, 2017
    10
    It's not just a game, it's a masterpiece. Prepare yourself to live an amazing and crazy journey. Definetly one of my favorite game EVER.

    Better than a lot of AAA.
  53. Gamingking007
    Aug 12, 2017
    10
    This game is Macnificent! It feels like they've taken all the most amazing games and combined it to make this masterpiece! You realize very early in this game that the graphics are perfection itself! Even pc gamers who are generally biased will be surprised by its beauty! The gameplay is awesome and I love how they've positioned her body to make it feel more 3D like! The fighting is simpleThis game is Macnificent! It feels like they've taken all the most amazing games and combined it to make this masterpiece! You realize very early in this game that the graphics are perfection itself! Even pc gamers who are generally biased will be surprised by its beauty! The gameplay is awesome and I love how they've positioned her body to make it feel more 3D like! The fighting is simple but not much brain power is required to play it well. What is amazing is the desperate and lingering effect of her desperation that reels you in! You start to really feel for her and you feel like you want to help her. You want to help her survive!Maybe it's because I relate to her in some way and I feel I am learning more about the human psyche . That excites me beyond words!The storyline is addictive and I couldn't take a break! It's beautifully told and the crisp sound the voices make sends chills down your spine as it keeps gaining momentum and intensity, be warned you need to have amazing sound from your speakers. Use your headphones rather if you're sound isn't good enough to truly experience its beauty! I wouldn't say it's the greatest game ever but it's a rare treasure where can you truly see that the creators put all their love and passion into it. To put it simply , it's a MASTERPIECE ! To give this game less than 8/10 simply means that the people who played it ,have the emotional maturity of a child or put simply life hasn't slapped them round enough to understand the depth of this game. Thank you ninja theory! You deserve all the good coming to you! Ps: it's cheap! I would have paid far more for this game if that was the case ! Enjoy It!… Expand
  54. ArchieandErnie
    Aug 11, 2017
    9
    Guns - no
    Explosions - no
    Intelligent storytelling - definitely
    Atmospheric - totally
    Stunning visuals - absolutely
    10/10 - very nearly
    Game Of The Year - quite possibly
  55. limakkepank
    Aug 15, 2017
    9
    One of the best games of recent years. Great story, beautiful heroine, madness and anxiety mixed with amazing graphics and a very nice fighting system. I would definitely recommend. 9/10!
  56. fijiboy
    Sep 7, 2017
    9
    hell blade is sort of an exploration/puzzle/adventure game with with a combat system that's very familiar and fairly simple, but really satisfying and very tense a lot of the time. I enjoyed a lot of the puzzles in the game and thought a lot of the challenges with puzzle aspects were really interesting, but some of the puzzles get repeated quite often and even though I enjoyed them andhell blade is sort of an exploration/puzzle/adventure game with with a combat system that's very familiar and fairly simple, but really satisfying and very tense a lot of the time. I enjoyed a lot of the puzzles in the game and thought a lot of the challenges with puzzle aspects were really interesting, but some of the puzzles get repeated quite often and even though I enjoyed them and thought they were neat, when you get into the late game and still have to solve the same kindof puzzle you've been doing since the beginning it can become kind of annoying, but thankfully there is a lot of variety to the kinds of challenges youll be facing through the game. the game uses audio very creatively and incorporates its audio as a main mechanic in the game and it works really well and makes you feel like a crazy person much like the main character Senua, and is one of the most original and fresh concepts ive seen in a game and brings a lot of awareness to mental illness and how greatly it affects people. the narrative is really good and there are many powerful and emotional moments that are well earned, and is one of the strongest aspects of this game. the story is very smart and well told and I became very invested in senua, her story, her struggles and her flaws. the story creates a very well realized world as well. this is a very dark tale with some really dark subjects being told and there are times where I was actually really scared and disturbed which I wasn't expecting. I think this is one of the best games ive played this year. the only problems I had were with a few of the puzzles being a little frustrating because the didn't give enough clear direction, but that was only with two of them, and a few sections of the game were drawn out a bit to long taking me out of the experience a little I don't understand why they needed to be that way they could of just shortened those small moments and I felt these little frustrations took me out of the game a lot especially the some of the reapeating puzzles, but other wise this is a must play game and I highly recommend it. there is no game like this out there and its a very unique, fresh, intense, epic and emotional experience. the game is about 8 hours but is half the price of a full price game, and I forgot to mention that the game is absolutely gorgeous and I adored the games design of the locations, enemies and atmosphere.… Expand
  57. synapticgamer
    Aug 14, 2017
    9
    Pros
    +Effectively articulates the experience of mental illness
    +Gripping character driven story +Intensely cinematic +Visually stunning +Inventive puzzle elements Cons -Not enough combat segments Hellblade: Senua's sacrifice implants the player into the mind of Senua, a solitary Celtic Warrior traversing profound layers of  psychosis, on a quest to free her beloved's soul from    Pros
    +Effectively articulates the experience of mental illness
    +Gripping character driven story
    +Intensely cinematic
    +Visually stunning
    +Inventive puzzle elements

    Cons
    -Not enough combat segments

    Hellblade: Senua's sacrifice implants the player into the mind of Senua, a solitary Celtic Warrior traversing profound layers of  psychosis, on a quest to free her beloved's soul from the clutches of Hell's persecution.  Elements of dark fantasy, Norse mythology and historical fiction, establish the setting for the story, complementing pervasive dark themes and rich context.

    Overwhelmed by confusion, ravaged by fear and haunted by the trauma of her past, Senua must embrace the madness cloaked within the recesses of her own enduring nightmare.  As each subsequent layer of the narrative is revealed, the player descends further into delirium to confront the gnawing darkness.  Driven by a captivating performance from Melina Juergens, Hellblade's unique story examines mental illness through the lens of distorted perception.

    Link to full review

    https://synapticgaming.wordpress.com/2017/08/14/hellblade-senuas-sacrifice-review/    … Expand
  58. Huikk4poks
    Aug 20, 2017
    9
    Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice was an experience with a wonderful music, beautiful graphics and awesome voice acting. If you enjoy Norse mythology and games with a great story prepare for a ride. Game took me a 8 hours to complete but for it's price, it is a great deal. For 2017 it is a must play.
  59. Bulldozer
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    Aside the fact that the game has few minor bugs, which are being revised and will be fixed hopefully pretty soon, we're in front of a masterpiece of game design, not in the meaning that's overly complex, but in the one that's masterfully crafted and every aspect of the game is astonishingly well blended in the mix.
    Fans of heavily intense action or fans of loot are advised that this game    Aside the fact that the game has few minor bugs, which are being revised and will be fixed hopefully pretty soon, we're in front of a masterpiece of game design, not in the meaning that's overly complex, but in the one that's masterfully crafted and every aspect of the game is astonishingly well blended in the mix.
    Fans of heavily intense action or fans of loot are advised that this game "could" not be for them.
    This is NOT an RPG in which you have to find tons of equipment scavenging through huge maps to explore, this is NOT a pure hack 'n slash game, is an "adventure game" in which you journey along Senua, the main character, guiding her trip which is composed of environmental puzzles to solve in order to progress in your journey, enemies to fight, with an (for me) intuitive, immediate, intense, balanced, responsive, visceral and very satisfying combat system, flavored with truly amazing animations.

    Aside from a single pattern in the puzzles the game presents, which is recurring often, and maybe another one you can face in few instances, the game always presents you different approaches you need to take in every situation, this means that in one part you could need to find your path in one way, in the following one you'll need to look for something else, puzzles involves mazes, even if not overly complex ones, to some extent there is a bit of stealth, there's a bit of time travel, there are intriguing boss fights,, it's a good mix of various intriguing game mechanics.

    As Senua, the main character is a female Celtic warrior suffering of psychosis, you'll not have a HUD guiding your journey, instead is present a mix of visual/acoustic hints in the form mainly of voices in her head, which sometimes can tell you the truth, some other those will plainly lie at you, or hallucinations which can usually prove themselves very helpful in guiding your insight, the game often tries to trick your mind in every way possible, that's a fascinating way to replace a nowaday outdated HUD system, which is possible due to its perfect integration with the main character mental status
    .
    From a graphical and acoustic standpoint the game is simply astonishing, it's highly advisable in this case to follow the game hint to play it with a pair of headphones for the best experience.

    There are collectibles in the game under the form of lorestones which will tell you pieces of Norse mythology, useless to say that collecting all of them "may" grant you some kind of a reward.

    All in all I found it to be an extremely balanced adventure game with the ability to awe you AND give you the chills in many situations.

    For what it is, in my opinion it well deserves a 10 out of 10.    … Expand
  60. quisuis
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    Ninja Theory please make it retail, i own the digital version and all i can said it a other masterpiece of your.

    Now just make it retail so the legend of Senua live forever.
  61. Daikenkini
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    I normally do not write reviews about anything ever because I do not really care myself what other people think. But this time world I am truly sorry there is no holding back my feelings anymore - I just have to add my own useless opinion on this game. First and foremost do not read anything about this game before playing it, only watch the trailers as they are spoiler free. DefinitelyI normally do not write reviews about anything ever because I do not really care myself what other people think. But this time world I am truly sorry there is no holding back my feelings anymore - I just have to add my own useless opinion on this game. First and foremost do not read anything about this game before playing it, only watch the trailers as they are spoiler free. Definitely play this game with headphones offering a decent sound stage, or you're taking away a substantial part of the experience that is core to the story. And last, concerning anything you might have already read about this game - I personally disagree with all the reviewers I have read after finishing the game. There is no universal reviewing of this game. This game may not be for people that do not like psychological games or are afraid of psychotic and violent scenes. But other than that, and considering its lower-than-expected price point, everyone will experience this game differently.
    Anyone playing it WILL form his or her own strong opinion about this game and remember the experience playing it, which may be heavily altered by past real life memories. If you have 30 Dollars to spare, this is a ride you want to engage in.    … Expand
  62. UncutSuspiria
    Aug 9, 2017
    9
    This is a game about mental illness, and it is capable of making you mentally ill, lol.

    The graphics and story are amazing. Do not buy this game if you are looking to play a 100+ hour game; at max this is a 6-9 hour game. Besides the story, which is phenomenal, the sound is what gives it a creepy feeling. This game is intended to be played using a headset. There is hardly any music,    This is a game about mental illness, and it is capable of making you mentally ill, lol.

    The graphics and story are amazing. Do not buy this game if you are looking to play a 100+ hour game; at max this is a 6-9 hour game.

    Besides the story, which is phenomenal, the sound is what gives it a creepy feeling. This game is intended to be played using a headset. There is hardly any music, the sound you hear is that of the landscape and the voices in the characters head all talking at once. You might hear one in the right earpiece telling you to move forward while one in the left earpiece is telling you to go back. There can be a bunch of different voices talking at once.

    This is not a typical game like Uncharted or Tomb Raider (both great) where you play to play. This is a game you play for the experience.

    Also, there is a perma-death feature in the game which adds to the story. If you die too many times then it will delete your saved progress and force you to restart (the mental illness gets worse after each death). This adds to your heart beating faster as you play. There is even a credited 'mental health adviser' who helped make the game what it is.

    Definitely recommend.    … Expand
  63. Zampa
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    Hellblade ou comment rentre l'horreur et la tristesse aussi belle que puissante.

    Un jeu avec un ambiance parfaite,n une DA magnifique et un travail sur le son terrible.

    Seul point faible : gameplay trop simpliste, combat trop brouillon et pas asser développé (manque de combo, skill)

    Merci Ninja Theory
  64. WARGirl
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    Great deep world, very emotional, very beautiful. This game is unique, very special, every movement is so real, just enjoyed it so much. Using headset it gives much more experience and sometimes it sounds so true, so crazy, i almost felt it inside my head. But the moments with finding puzzles sometimes were really boring. Anyway thanks to Ninja Theory for this great work.
  65. CavalierAU
    Oct 20, 2017
    4
    While the Norse mythology setting is appreciated -- the main character's plight of bringing back her boyfriend from death is extremely melodramatic, it doesn't coalesce well with the setting nor her depiction as a strong warrior. Senua can barely keep it together in the cutscenes yet she's cutting down 10ft tall 'Northmen', there's a huge disconnect between gameplay and herWhile the Norse mythology setting is appreciated -- the main character's plight of bringing back her boyfriend from death is extremely melodramatic, it doesn't coalesce well with the setting nor her depiction as a strong warrior. Senua can barely keep it together in the cutscenes yet she's cutting down 10ft tall 'Northmen', there's a huge disconnect between gameplay and her characterisation.

    A 'psychological warning' is presented at the start of the game which only reminds us of how protective of delicate sensitivities this industry has become. If you're cynical to melodrama and overacting, this story will get old fast.

    This 'visual novel' features very shallow gameplay: a small scattering of combat scenarios against only a few different enemy types, and the simplest of puzzles that typically only require you to look at shapes at a certain angle. An entire section of the game is pitch black darkness that's somehow presented as a new challenge, which only serves to frustrate the player.

    Much attention to detail was paid in modelling Senua, and she looks realistic. However she can only barely interact with her lifeless environment. She can climb ladders, open doors, vault over small ledges and carry a torch. That's it.

    Supporting characters aren't 3D modelled but are blurred actors in costume, which feels cheap. I don't believe for a moment that the scrawny actor playing 'Dillion' was some kind of masterful warrior. He looks like a celtic bard.

    If there were still video stores to rent from, I'd only recommend renting this 5-hour title. Play through it once and then watch the other ending on YouTube.    … Expand
  66. Seraphiel
    Apr 23, 2018
    3
    I am very frustrated by this game because what could have been a perfect game is rendered mediocre by lack of attention to actual gameplay.

    What does this game do well? Firstly, the atmosphere is absolutely fantastic. The depiction of mental illness is managed tastefully and accurately and the voices in Senua's head very often mirror your own thoughts. Indeed, the voices will often warn    I am very frustrated by this game because what could have been a perfect game is rendered mediocre by lack of attention to actual gameplay.

    What does this game do well? Firstly, the atmosphere is absolutely fantastic. The depiction of mental illness is managed tastefully and accurately and the voices in Senua's head very often mirror your own thoughts. Indeed, the voices will often warn you when an enemy is about to attack from behind and, after a while, you are forced to admit to yourself that you've come to rely on the voice much like Senua has. That part is great.

    What part is mediocre: The story. There's really not much there for all the game's feigned deepness and, without spoiling things, the end is a massive anti-climax.

    The aspect that lets the game down is really everything about the gameplay. There are three things you will do in this game: Combat, puzzle solving and moving between areas for combat and puzzle solving. Now, I'm not averse to either one if they are done well but both are exceptionally boring and repetitive here.

    COMBAT: With the exception of two semi-bosses there are three enemy types. (1) Viking with shield, (2) fighter with two swords and skeletal cow's head (3) large guy with a giant axe. Be prepared to fight these three copy & pasted enemies over and over and over again in more or less the same order. In this game once you've had one fight then you've basically had them all. Even the repetitive nature of the encounters could be worthwhile if the combat mechanics were interesting or fun but instead you will find yourself doing exactly the same thing in each encounter; block, stab, block, stab, block, stab, charge magic mirror *killing spree*, block, stab etc etc etc. If you're fighting giant axe guy then you will substitute dodge in place of block but that's about as diverse as combat gets in Hellblade.

    PUZZLES: 90% of the puzzles involve lining objects up in order to make a symbol appear. This is never particularly difficult but often involves lots of repetitive running about at Senua's irritatingly slow jogging pace. No matter how you look at it, this puzzle is simply not very fun and the repetitive nature of this was tedious and boring. The other puzzle is to look through a magic portal which makes reality on the other-side subtly change, this was a fun mechanic the first few times but, again, it is used to death in one section and then never used again.

    Often it feels that the actual gameplay was an afterthought. I suspect that the game developers created a pseudo-walking simulator and then thought "this feels empty and short lets add some filler in to pad it out a bit".

    This brings me to my final point, the game is very short. I would estimate a four - six hour play time depending on how quickly you progress. I finished it in around 5 hours and that included exploring all the areas fully. I certainly wasn't sorry to see it end as, by that time, I was thoroughly bored but if you measure game value in a ration of gameplay hours to money spent then the game is probably not worthwhile.

    In summary: I really really wanted to like this game and the game deals with some concepts fantastically but it is let down by a lack of real depth and by poorly implemented gameplay.    … Expand
  67. Skitte
    Sep 15, 2017
    5
    Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a game made by Ninja Theory, developed entirely on Unreal Engine 4. It took a long wait to finally see this game make it on the market. I finished it in 2 days, roughly. I just couldn't finish it on one playthrough. I had high hopes for this, but ultimately, I can't really recommend it. It looks good on PC; the game really proves the power of Unreal 4, butHellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a game made by Ninja Theory, developed entirely on Unreal Engine 4. It took a long wait to finally see this game make it on the market. I finished it in 2 days, roughly. I just couldn't finish it on one playthrough. I had high hopes for this, but ultimately, I can't really recommend it. It looks good on PC; the game really proves the power of Unreal 4, but as what the game offers, it's not enough for me, plus the wrong steps they took. First of all, the story is kind of... nice, the presentation hooks you up immediately, but as the story moves on, it becomes a mess, you might just lose interest. It's kind of the same dialogue, it's kind of the same thing told with other words. What I liked is the topic. I haven't seen many other games tread psychiatrical problems this way. Then... where the problem appears. THE GAME IS EXTREMELY TEDIOUS around the half of it. THE GAME IS FILLED WITH WAAAY TOO MANY PUZZLES, ONE AFTER ANOTHER. They aren't hard, but you'll sigh everytime you have to look for certain symbols, running in circles and noticing that SENUA IS GODDAMN SLOW. I get it it's a game about mental problems, but the puzzles broke the immersion and the atmosphere just fade away after going through a gate and another puzzle waiting for me. The last thing that I want to say, the combat. It's extremely simple, but it's enjoyable, it's not like it's the main part of the game, but it contributes. Some fights are rewarding, some hard, some that you wish would end sooner, but ultimately, it didn't tire me.
    Also, I really paid attention to detail, voices and art style. They really immitate The Nordic/Viking lore. This area of the game has been extremely well done.

    TL;DR:
    Pros:
    - Presentation and Topic
    - Graphics
    - Voice Acting and Art Style
    - Psycosis was extremely well potrayed.
    Neutral:
    - Execution of the Story
    - Combat

    Negative:
    - Puzzles *I think the game would be 2-3 hours without those filling puzzles*
    - Execution of the story
    - Senua is too slow in walking and even running
    - Writing becomes tiring to listen to and even read. *I took my headphones off at the last scene, the puzzle and voices really drove me nuts I couldn't wait to finish it*

    Conclusions:
    The game isn't terrible by any means, but it isn't really what I have been waiting for. I can't recommend to casual puzzle, action or story rich gamers. It's basically a walking simulator with an attempt to a great story. I could say to only hardcorre fans to puzzle to try this, fans of walking simulators and eventually if you are curious how psychotic people cope with this mental issue.    … Expand
  68. z80
    Jan 13, 2018
    2
    Amazing graphics and atmosphere at the first glance. It holds for half an hour until you realize how boring and shallow the game actually is. Walking through a insulated trippy corridor with stupid and mind-boggling puzzles along the way. The way the character's way is blocked by every tiny branch, brick or 1 ft ledge is pathetic. I can barely remember a recent game that made me hate it soAmazing graphics and atmosphere at the first glance. It holds for half an hour until you realize how boring and shallow the game actually is. Walking through a insulated trippy corridor with stupid and mind-boggling puzzles along the way. The way the character's way is blocked by every tiny branch, brick or 1 ft ledge is pathetic. I can barely remember a recent game that made me hate it so much and so fast.… Expand
  69. ramb0_allstar
    Aug 14, 2017
    9
    This game has received some criticism (albeit I feel unfairly) and some adorations. All in all it set out what it meant to do and that was to get people talking.

    You play as Senua. A young girl troubled with psychosis fighting through the underworld based in Norse mythology looking to free her long lost love Dillian. Throughout her journey she not only battles different god but her own    This game has received some criticism (albeit I feel unfairly) and some adorations. All in all it set out what it meant to do and that was to get people talking.

    You play as Senua. A young girl troubled with psychosis fighting through the underworld based in Norse mythology looking to free her long lost love Dillian. Throughout her journey she not only battles different god but her own demons as well. She is troubled by the voices in her head and not sure of what or who to trust, including herself. You will soon begin to understand that this is more than just a battle for the soul of your love but also a journey to vindicate yourself and to prove once and for all that you were not the cause of what happened to your people.

    I played this game entirely with headphones on. I would recommend anyone that plays this to do the same as the voices in Senua’s head are also in yours. It definitely provides a level of immersion that to my recollection has not been achieved as of late this gen.

    Throughout the heavy narrative you will be put in situations that test Senua’s ability to overcome the doubt inside her head to overcome an obstacle that is placed there to hinder your progress to protect the gods. The game is heavily dependent on the narrative aspect with a few sequences where you will fight enemies. During these sequences you will be challenged not only with just regular combat with enemies but also with timing as well as to when you place them in focus in order to take them out of their shadow form. The level at which you encounter these different enemies is very well thought out as to increasing in difficulty and the amount of damage required to defeat them.

    The puzzle sequences in this game I feel offer a twist on your average puzzles that I’ve encountered in recent games and provides you with enough clues and hints that completing them will be relatively easy. Just don’t let the voices in your head confuse you and you will be fine.
    This game is a must play for all those on the fence and I’d say even for those looking past it. This game explores mental health in a way few games have ever achieved. It really puts the character right in your hands and head.
    I don’t feel like this is a game to go in to great detail with as its one that must be played and experienced in order to fully grasp the intriquicies in which Ninja Theory went to in order to tell Senua’s story.

    I rank this game definitely as one of the greatest games this year and give it an overall 9/10 rating. I chose the 9/10 simply because I felt the only thing this game was lacking was a chapter select feature after you beat the game for clean-up of the collectibles you missed. Other than that it was a near perfect game for me.    … Expand
  70. earfalass
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    Well, Ninja Theory did an amazing job! This game is truly awesome, one of the best games I've ever played. Epic story, amazing graphics, great puzzles, satisfying combat, amazing soundtracks and amazing voice acting.
  71. monokuma888
    Oct 3, 2017
    10
    This game is just fantastic in every sense of the word. Hellblade is a game that boasts about being a indie game while having the talent and budget of most triple a games and this not only does that but surpasses it. It's story is probably one of the best aspects about it as it deals with a lot of with mental illness and its affects on the mind and it does such a good job with it that itThis game is just fantastic in every sense of the word. Hellblade is a game that boasts about being a indie game while having the talent and budget of most triple a games and this not only does that but surpasses it. It's story is probably one of the best aspects about it as it deals with a lot of with mental illness and its affects on the mind and it does such a good job with it that it does not come of as a cheap way of trying to get attention by doing something controversial but treats it with respect and a lot of care which I appreciate. The game itself does have a lot of walking and puzzle solving even if they are similar for most of them but they to are very well done and the world itself is so rich and increasing with the Norse lore and the combat while simplistic is actually pretty damn good. If this isn't enough to convince you then buy it yourself and see as it is one of the most underrated games I have played in years… Expand
  72. turbosnail
    Dec 2, 2019
    3
    Perhaps my expectations were too high, but after an hour of gameplay I realized "this is it; nothing happened so far, and nothing more is going to happen."

    If you are looking for an action / adventure game, *this is not it*. Stay far away from this! If you are looking for an audio-book about the inside of schizofrenic people and a video of rocks, rocks and more rocks (and some wood)    Perhaps my expectations were too high, but after an hour of gameplay I realized "this is it; nothing happened so far, and nothing more is going to happen."

    If you are looking for an action / adventure game, *this is not it*. Stay far away from this!
    If you are looking for an audio-book about the inside of schizofrenic people and a video of rocks, rocks and more rocks (and some wood) and you don't mind the absence of any gameplay; go buy this.    … Expand
  73. RexVanquisher
    Aug 13, 2017
    9
    Excellent game that shows it's calibre more the deeper you go in the game. Enjoyed my time with it, and appreicated Ninja Theory's researches on mental illness as made it more visceral and disturbing in places.

    This game I think will probably remain with you when coming across issues of mental health in every day life.
  74. iBalkanizze
    Nov 27, 2017
    9
    A psychedelic/atmospheric MASTERPIECE that restored my faith in game developers (9.5/10).

    Every once in a while there comes a game that simply blows you away, your jaw just keeps dropping with every scene and you get so emotionally involved you almost think it's all real - this is my experience with this game. I've never felt so attached to a character since Ellie (The Last of Us). I    A psychedelic/atmospheric MASTERPIECE that restored my faith in game developers (9.5/10).

    Every once in a while there comes a game that simply blows you away, your jaw just keeps dropping with every scene and you get so emotionally involved you almost think it's all real - this is my experience with this game. I've never felt so attached to a character since Ellie (The Last of Us).

    I could speak about the pros of this game for hours, let me just say...even the cons are not really cons, once you play the game, you will understand what I mean - everything simply fits.

    Pros:

    - atmosphere unlike any other
    - motion capture and character graphics are from another planet
    - lead actress Melina Juergens deserves an Oscar, no...in fact she deserves every award available for her performance
    - best audio in a game EVER
    - Ninja Theory literally created a new genre in terms of how this game was made/priced, etc

    Cons:

    - Simplified combat (more about timing than skill)
    - puzzles could be better    … Expand
  75. UnderOverRated
    Mar 12, 2018
    6
    Graphics are top notch, atmosphere and audio is incredible but unfortunately lacks actual gameplay. The player is so God Damn slow, as well as the camera (patch in some settings for Christ sakes) . For a game that has portals on opposite sides of a level and a battle system, your character is so clunky its almost unbearable. Puzzles are repetitive as well as the combat. The audio andGraphics are top notch, atmosphere and audio is incredible but unfortunately lacks actual gameplay. The player is so God Damn slow, as well as the camera (patch in some settings for Christ sakes) . For a game that has portals on opposite sides of a level and a battle system, your character is so clunky its almost unbearable. Puzzles are repetitive as well as the combat. The audio and visual stimulation with a good set of headphones are the main reason why this game didn't completely suck for me. Good narrative and creepy atmosphere. One of the best in that category. I don't regret playing it but I had to force myself to get through it.… Expand
  76. GamingNinja
    Aug 10, 2017
    9
    You know something is wrong with the game industry when a small studio with a low budget makes a better game than most other games coming out in the years.

    Graphics 9/10 Very good, some lower resolution textures here and there but still solid all around. Story 9/10 Lot's of great story telling with deeper meanings. Gameplay 9/10 Combat is phenomenal but might get repetitive after a    You know something is wrong with the game industry when a small studio with a low budget makes a better game than most other games coming out in the years.

    Graphics 9/10 Very good, some lower resolution textures here and there but still solid all around.
    Story 9/10 Lot's of great story telling with deeper meanings.
    Gameplay 9/10 Combat is phenomenal but might get repetitive after a while. So it's good the game isn't too long.
    Puzzles felt tedious at first but then I really started to appreciate them how they fit perfectly with the story with unique take on puzzling.

    Definitely worth the 30$ and ninja theory is being a great examply in a industrythat is becoming more and more toxic.    … Expand
  77. mdama09
    Aug 9, 2017
    10
    I would have copied my steam review but that is too long. I **** love this game, it is amazing and a true sight to behold and play. And for 30$ to quote VideoGameDunkey "It's a masterpiece for your wallet"
  78. krtek85
    Aug 10, 2017
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. Truly amazing atmosphere, immersive ambient. This game for those, who can feel, empathize and savor psychosis. Must have!
  79. Superjun8
    Aug 10, 2017
    10
    this is the best narrative experience up to this day that money can buy. period.
    in contrast to the other 'walking simulators' this actually engages you in simple yet fitting gameplay mechanics (a bit of puzzles and a bit of simple but intense combat).
    the game portrays mental disorder like never seen before - it has to be experienced and a headset is a MUST. if you liked narrative    this is the best narrative experience up to this day that money can buy. period.
    in contrast to the other 'walking simulators' this actually engages you in simple yet fitting gameplay mechanics (a bit of puzzles and a bit of simple but intense combat).

    the game portrays mental disorder like never seen before - it has to be experienced and a headset is a MUST.

    if you liked narrative experiences like firewalker or ethan carter etc, but wished that it hat more gameplay - this one's for you.    … Expand
  80. pthomasatl
    Aug 12, 2017
    9
    A breath of fresh air. Definitely a very much appreciated change and long overdue pace in gaming. Games like this give us gamers a variety in a market where games are over-saturated with FPS, game leagues, and attempts at "open world". Now, listen I love FPS, game leagues and open world, but let's be honest, they are all over the place and starting to be a dime a dozen. I like this walkingA breath of fresh air. Definitely a very much appreciated change and long overdue pace in gaming. Games like this give us gamers a variety in a market where games are over-saturated with FPS, game leagues, and attempts at "open world". Now, listen I love FPS, game leagues and open world, but let's be honest, they are all over the place and starting to be a dime a dozen. I like this walking simulation with some action, with a deep story and is enjoyable in between playing other games in the previous mentioned game formats. Going to rate this one high, but not perfect, so I will be fair.… Expand
  81. Chulja
    Oct 29, 2017
    4
    Overrrated. My Opinion. Starts with big "Ahs" and "Ohs" for the style, the presentation and the upcoming expectations. Ends with "Oh no, not find a pattern again". Boring, so boring that I quit, even if the playtime should not be too long.
  82. Kenmei
    Aug 13, 2017
    10
    I want to preface this by saying that this game is not for everyone. The subject matter here can be quite powerful to deal with and the raw emotions that come across in this game are very strong and, at times, can be very depressing. All that being said, this is one of the most incredible gaming experiences I've had the pleasure of going through. The quality of pretty much everything inI want to preface this by saying that this game is not for everyone. The subject matter here can be quite powerful to deal with and the raw emotions that come across in this game are very strong and, at times, can be very depressing. All that being said, this is one of the most incredible gaming experiences I've had the pleasure of going through. The quality of pretty much everything in the game is absolutely top notch and the care given to the subject matter here is quite beautiful.
    While the main plot of the game, a Celtic Warrior ventures into Viking Hell to steal back the soul of her murdered lover by their hands, is, by itself, extremely cool sounding. However, the main subject of the game is the fact that Senua, the main character, has a strong case of mental illness and hears voices almost constantly that plague her to no end. And, if you play this game with headphones like you're supposed too, you get to experience it with her. It's truly maddening at times and I could only play for an hour or so at a time as the game can be mentally exhausting at times. You can never really tell what is real and what is fake within the game and that serves to drive the game forward at just the right pace that will make you feel that you're making good time but not being bogged down too much. And the side story, her journey into Hell itself, is also very well done.
    The gameplay elements here can be hit or miss at times but generally are very well done. The combat is simple but good. However it clearly was designed for a 1-on-1 style of combat and when there are multiple enemies on screen at once, it can be difficult to dodge the others attacks when they are coming from off screen. Enemies also can spawn at horrible angles, giving them a free shot before you even know you're fighting at times. However you can get good enough to figure it out fairly easily and get more in the flow of things towards the later portions of the game. The puzzle sequence also are hit or miss. They all revolve around finding runes to open doors to get the next area and can be very tedious to find at certain times. I found it irritating more then once when you'd find the solution only for the game to make sure you knew that you didn't find it the way it wanted you too.
    However the gameplay won't distract you for long from the storyline. It's the bread and butter of the game and the performances are so well done that it really drew me into the world they were developing. The game is about 6-8 hours long depending on how long it takes you to find certain things. For a 30 Dollar game (US), for the package that you're getting here, I believe that it's the perfect price for what it needed to be. Anymore might have been asking for too much.
    I can't widely recommend this game to everyone. It's a game for a certain kind of person and I'd definitely recommend people who don't have the stomach for this kind of content to stay away. For others this is an amazing experience from the onset of the game and I can't recommend it enough. Not because of it's a game but because the message they have to spread about the subject here is very well done and you can tell that alot of love and care was put into this.    … Expand
  83. max6296
    Aug 17, 2017
    10
    Reading the reviews, I realised something in the bad reviews. The most commonly used word in them is 'boring'. This is funny because it reminds me of mathematics. Those who understood it were interested, and those who did not were just plain bored.
  84. Quillcannon
    Aug 21, 2019
    0
    I have nothing against the developers, but something about this game disgusts me on an instinctual level. Every design decision I suffered to come across playing it felt forced and unimaginative. I've played bare-bones walking simulators with more stable and more engaging gameplay. Nothing about this game is worth suffering through its entirety. Save your hard-earned money, save yourI have nothing against the developers, but something about this game disgusts me on an instinctual level. Every design decision I suffered to come across playing it felt forced and unimaginative. I've played bare-bones walking simulators with more stable and more engaging gameplay. Nothing about this game is worth suffering through its entirety. Save your hard-earned money, save your precious time that you're never gonna get back, and play something else. Anything else.… Expand
  85. miller1001
    Aug 10, 2017
    10
    To be honest, this game is a lot better than I expected.
    Epic story, beautiful visuals, triple a quality!! A deeply emotional and beautifully told story, some of the best fighting animations ive seen in a game, phenomenal art direction, and amazing atmosphere and setting. I still cant believe it was only $30.
  86. cinogen
    Aug 11, 2017
    10
    hellblade feels like Darren aronofsky wrote and directed it!! so bizarrely good, amazing and fun to play.
    This is an outstanding game!! please play and support this game as it well deserves it!
  87. downphoenix
    Aug 15, 2017
    10
    This game exceeded my expectations. I have closely followed it, being a fan of Ninja Theory's past games as well as really digging the concept and the setting of the game. I however, did not expect it to be as emotionally impacting as it ended up being. I did not expect the story to be as compelling and griping as it ended up being. I did not expect the visually stunning graphics andThis game exceeded my expectations. I have closely followed it, being a fan of Ninja Theory's past games as well as really digging the concept and the setting of the game. I however, did not expect it to be as emotionally impacting as it ended up being. I did not expect the story to be as compelling and griping as it ended up being. I did not expect the visually stunning graphics and beautiful dissonant soundtrack as they ended up being. Basically I expected this game to be a pretty decent action adventure game and walked away playing what could possibly be the best game of the year. It has overtaken Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild for me personally. It is well deserved of the praise it gets. Not only is this game a masterfully competent action game with spot on controls that have zero delay and allow for varied and well choreographed battles, but it also featured one of the most interesting protagonists we've seen in a long time in games. There are many layers to the madness that dwells upon Senua and as you play through, you as a player will not only experience it but be a part of this journey. The sound design is something I've never quite experienced in a game before, the 3d binaural audio is something you just have to hear, playing this game with headphones is mandatory to get the best experience possible, unless maybe you have a great surround system. If you can find a way to place this game, do it!… Expand
  88. Skipper81Ger
    Aug 12, 2017
    9
    A very successful, darkly oppressive northern mythological 3th person enigma game.
    A very successful, darkly oppressive northern mythological 3th person enigma game
  89. MountainJoe
    Aug 16, 2017
    10
    Masterpiece : beautiful graphics, great sound (those inner voices !), great story, beat'em all combat that looks great and plays great, visual puzzles that don't feel fresh, low price ! what's to hate ? 6-10 hours + secret scene at the end if you found all collectibles ... My GOTY 2017 ... You won't forget this game.
  90. DrChocolate
    Nov 11, 2017
    10
    A short but excellent game about what it is like to live with psychosis. Beautiful graphics, challenging puzzles, gorgeous execution. Highly recommended.
  91. BorderlineBunk
    Aug 29, 2017
    7
    I gotta say when I started out I loved this game as so many others did, but I finally reached a point where I had to put the controller down and write a review. The games atmosphere, story, graphics, and audio are all top notch which you'll see in every review. But I don't play games to look around or listen. I play for a fun gameplay experience. The puzzles are lackluster. They don't hurtI gotta say when I started out I loved this game as so many others did, but I finally reached a point where I had to put the controller down and write a review. The games atmosphere, story, graphics, and audio are all top notch which you'll see in every review. But I don't play games to look around or listen. I play for a fun gameplay experience. The puzzles are lackluster. They don't hurt the game, but to me they don't really add anything either. I found myself annoyed anytime I came across one, but this brings me to my main gripe with the game, the combat. Its painfully easy. I've been sitting here hacking away at enemies for way too long. I chose the auto difficulty option, which I got the hang of very quickly and I've only fallen in battle maybe twice the whole game so I'm imagining that the difficulty is quite high at this point, but that just translates to the enemies being able to take sword slash after sword slash. The second to last boss fight took me about 30 minutes to complete. I'm so sick of the combat at this point I just want to beat this game so I can call it done. Senua's slow movements and painfully long combat sequence takes a game that should've only taken 4-5 hours to complete and doubles it. I respect the level of polish they put on this game and its still worth playing which is why I gave it a 7, but Ninja Theory really should've invested more time into actual gameplay mechanics instead of doing hours of whispered voice recording that constantly plays in your ear. Play this game for the story and brilliant atmosphere, but set a reasonable difficulty, dont do the auto scaling because it makes the game much less enjoyable.… Expand
  92. DwarfPerkele
    Oct 10, 2017
    7
    For the most part, I enjoyed Hellblade. The graphics are beautiful, the setting is unique and really creepy. The story is interesting and made me want to find out how it ends. I really liked the combat system; fast, brutal, and has a bit of a strategy element to it when there are multiple opponents.

    I was a tad disappointed that the game looked a lot like an RPG (like Horizon Dawn Zero,    For the most part, I enjoyed Hellblade. The graphics are beautiful, the setting is unique and really creepy. The story is interesting and made me want to find out how it ends. I really liked the combat system; fast, brutal, and has a bit of a strategy element to it when there are multiple opponents.

    I was a tad disappointed that the game looked a lot like an RPG (like Horizon Dawn Zero, Witcher 3, etc.), but it was actually only a mix of combat and puzzles, and little else. 90% of the puzzles involves finding shapes that resemble runes in your environment, and it gets really repetitive. There's little to no interaction between the character and the world except where it's required for you to advance to the next area. No items you can pick up except when the story requires it. No people to talk to. If you can interact with an object (usually a door), you probably should if you want to finish the game. The only exception are rune stones, which info-dump a bit of mythology on you. While I found the info dumps interesting, their connection to Senua's story was tenuous a lot of time. I would have much preferred (for example) murals, paintings, carvings, statues, or other art that actually depicts the stories in question so that Senua could have observed them, learning the story.

    The game is also really short, which was a bit disappointing. Still, despite all the flaws, I enjoyed the game and thought it was worth the money.    … Expand
  93. wesker2012
    Dec 21, 2017
    6
    Great graphics, cinematic atmosphere, and sound with an interesting new core concept of hearing voices. Everything else though was very lackluster. The combat and puzzles were very annoying. A lot of times, it was hard to know what to do. The combat took forever and wasnt very enjoyable.
  94. Opinionatedhelp
    Nov 7, 2017
    9
    This game is an amazing experience and I have never played anything like it. I am so grateful that such an ambitious and visionary game was made for me to play. The game is beautiful, the story is incredibly engaging and the way that it deals with mental health is so interesting. They have created an amazing character that is so vulnerable but so much stronger because of it. I found theThis game is an amazing experience and I have never played anything like it. I am so grateful that such an ambitious and visionary game was made for me to play. The game is beautiful, the story is incredibly engaging and the way that it deals with mental health is so interesting. They have created an amazing character that is so vulnerable but so much stronger because of it. I found the combat to be very engaging and stylish. The puzzles can go on a bit but the way they are used to tell her story and the way the story evolves as you do the puzzles makes it very worthwhile.

    The only criticism I have is that the fighting mechanics could be a little bit more varied, however this was no a focus of the game and I still found the fighting very rewarding and enjoyable. The second boss fight was one of the most intense and cinematic I have ever experienced.

    I do not often have the privilege of playing games with such a clear vision and where all of the elements of the game are executed in the service of that vision. I recommend it to everybody, it is an experience like no other. This game reminds me why video games are so special as a medium. I have been so excited telling people about this game and I will keep recommending it to everyone I can.    … Expand
  95. Dohmein
    May 30, 2018
    1
    This game is **** I am utterly shocked at the good reviews - even a few of them. You walk around for hours, fight for a total of about 4 minutes. Everything looks the same and its bland at that. Visuals? What effin visuals? Running is walking in any other game. I paid 16 and I overpaid by 10 easy. All my friends were like make sure you use headphones. I did - got old listening toThis game is **** I am utterly shocked at the good reviews - even a few of them. You walk around for hours, fight for a total of about 4 minutes. Everything looks the same and its bland at that. Visuals? What effin visuals? Running is walking in any other game. I paid 16 and I overpaid by 10 easy. All my friends were like make sure you use headphones. I did - got old listening to that nonsense over and over and over and over..... It offers nothing in terms of gameplay. I can see why this game is focused on mental health, it will drive you bat **** Cmon folks this game is just crap I do not believe anyone who gave this over a 5… Expand
  96. AL4I
    Aug 13, 2017
    9
    As the developers said its and indie game but its like an AAA game,yes his game is wonderful:unique story,great environment,perfect game play & combat system,unique cutscence and,etc
    Its one of the must buys,and the price is totally fair.
    The only problems is some of technical problems like some of sound effects;for example when you walk on water the sound of that is really deep,but they    As the developers said its and indie game but its like an AAA game,yes his game is wonderful:unique story,great environment,perfect game play & combat system,unique cutscence and,etc
    Its one of the must buys,and the price is totally fair.
    The only problems is some of technical problems like some of sound effects;for example when you walk on water the sound of that is really deep,but they are just some little problems that most of games has so you can easels pass this little problems    … Expand
  97. Carl042
    Apr 30, 2018
    8
    Fascinating game, great to play with some minor flaws. Watch the featurette after completion to get a full appreciation of the lengths the team have gone to in order to capture and expose many aspects of mental illness. It tells a great story but the pinnacle achievement, is a sense of empathy with someone so very different struggling with challenges that face many marginalised by modern society.
  98. Winko
    Dec 27, 2017
    9
    Good:
    - Uses an interactive medium to its upmost potential and sheds an interesting perspective on mental illness
    - Combat was designed a lot better than expected and was genuinely fun and challenging throughout - The feature accessible through the main menu is great and adds a alot of insight to the development behind the game while highlighting the lengths the team went to depict    Good:
    - Uses an interactive medium to its upmost potential and sheds an interesting perspective on mental illness
    - Combat was designed a lot better than expected and was genuinely fun and challenging throughout
    - The feature accessible through the main menu is great and adds a alot of insight to the development behind the game while highlighting the lengths the team went to depict psychosis accurately
    - Bosses where crazy fun to fight against
    - The perspective puzzles were always fun and interesting
    - The length was perfect for indie title (Around 6 hours)
    - The nordic lore was always interesting to hear about
    - The voices Senua hears in her head not only help drive the narrative, but they also help out with gameplay. They tell the player when an enemy is attacking from behind and will give hints on puzzles and how to proceed.

    Mixed:
    - The ending scene is great, but the song that plays over the credits afterwards is god awful and soils it in a small way
    - There were some noticeable technical issues but nothing that straight up broke the game or soiled the experience in a major way
    - The story can be a little hard to follow, but everything comes together very nicely in the end

    Bad:
    - It was very easy to get lost in a number of areas
    - Alluring to a perma-death feature was very misleading and could have been a really neat feature if it was actually implemented
    XXX    … Expand
  99. destinyfan1
    Aug 13, 2017
    9
    This must be the most beautiful game for 30 euros I have ever played
    The story is epic,puzzles are good,the sound is nearly perfect
    Recommended for everyone
    BUT there's one thing, its a lot of walking so not for those people who wanna explode everything in their path
  100. Lowzone
    Feb 20, 2018
    9
    Hellblade is a short game it’s true but it was also half the price of a full retail game. I think it worth every dollars. The binaural mix is really well handle and the VOs are super clean. Dont play that game without headphones because it is really meant to be played with it.
    The lore is rich and the narrator is really entertaining.
    At first I was not a fan of the combat system but the    Hellblade is a short game it’s true but it was also half the price of a full retail game. I think it worth every dollars. The binaural mix is really well handle and the VOs are super clean. Dont play that game without headphones because it is really meant to be played with it.
    The lore is rich and the narrator is really entertaining.
    At first I was not a fan of the combat system but the more you progress the it’s getting better
    I had some moment where I tough « that fight was epic, »
    It really feels different to play a character that feels so weak and strong at the same time.
    That game established the new standard in term of gaming audio.

    Rating:
    Audio: 10/10
    Story : 10/10
    Level design: 8/10 ( no innovation but the challenge is well balanced)
    Art : 8/10 everything that is in game is stunning but I found the « real » image mix a bit weird.
    Overall: 8.5 plus a « must play » seal of approval.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

50
#50 Best PS4 Game of 2017
17
#17 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2017
26
#26 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 68 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 61 out of 68
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 68
  3. Negative: 1 out of 68
  1. Screen Rant
    Dec 20, 2018
    90
    Both proof that small development teams can make great games, and that video games can handle heavy themes in their own way.
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  2. Critical Hit
    Dec 20, 2018
    80
    Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a prime example for anyone making the case that video games are a powerful art form. Creatively ambitious, it’s exceptionally well-thought-out and implemented – making it striking at both a sensorial and psychological level as it delves deep into an exploration of life with psychosis. It has its gameplay flaws but remains must-experience for adult audiences. An instant classic for this generation.
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  3. Jeuxvideo.com
    Jun 3, 2018
    85
    Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice takes us on a long road to hell paved with contemplative yet stressful scenes, and an impressive respect for Norse myths and legends.
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