With Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice receiving the Xbox Series X enhanced visuals update, everyone’s struggling to contain their excitement for Hellblade 2. The new 4K next-gen gameplay for Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice looks incredibly impressive (not that it didn’t already). And if that level of graphical prowess is possible on a game from 2017, what do Ninja Theory have in store for Hellblade 2? We haven’t seen much of it so far, but it could be a game changer for Xbox Series X.
Hellblade 2 Xbox Exclusive
The first Hellblade game was released on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Windows and now Xbox Series X/S. Hellblade 2, however, is going to be an Xbox Series X/S exclusive. Which means PlayStation fans are going to miss out.
As everyone knows, Microsoft have gone out of their way to secure big name developers and franchises. Hellblade was very well received on its initial release back in 2017. And since then, it has gone on to garner something of a cult following thanks to its deep themes and compelling story.
Arguably, one of the big reasons PlayStation dominated the eighth console generation was because of its high quality exclusive game library. Xbox, on the other hand, didn’t offer anywhere near as much. With Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda promising popular high-quality exclusive games, Hellblade 2 might just cement the perception that Xbox has even more up its sleeve.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice Enhanced Visuals Mode
Despite beating sales expectations, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice isn’t quite a household name. However, Ninja Theory are now releasing the Xbox Series X version that will include an Enhanced Visuals mode and ray tracing. If there was ever something that would entice Xbox players to give it a try, it’s this.
To say the enhanced version of Senua’s Sacrifice looks visually stunning is almost an understatement. But even then, compared to the in-engine Hellblade 2 trailer, it falls short. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II could well be one of the best looking games we’ve ever seen. And for those who pick up the enhanced version of Hellblade, they’ll get a sneak preview of what’s in store.
Hellblade Psychosis
Senua, the main character in Hellblade, suffers from psychosis that causes her to hear voices. This schizophrenia-like condition is referred to as “Furies” and is one of the most compelling things about the game.
One of the voices, the Narrator, is even aware of the player and breaks the fourth wall. From an audio design perspective, it’s pretty remarkable. Ultimately, it makes for a unique gaming experience like no other. And it’s the reason the game was applauded for its portrayal of mental illness.
This deep and intriguing concept fits into the modern fascination with intelligent, story-driven games. And if Hellblade 2 can recapture the essence of what made the first game so special, it’s bound to be a winner. Especially because of the increased attention it will receive around launch.
Hellblade 2 Engine
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II will run on Unreal Engine 5 and will be one of the first games to do so.
Due to Unreal Engine 5’s incredibly impressive tech demos, there’s considerable hype and interest surrounding it. That means those first games using it will be looked over with a magnifying glass. As both one of the first games to use Unreal Engine 5 and an Xbox Series X exclusive, Hellblade 2 will get a double whammy. Especially from curious PlayStation users. And that means all the more chances for the game to succeed. After all, we know Hellblade 2 looks incredible. Just watch the in-engine trailer.
Hellblade 2 on Xbox Game Pass
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 will almost certainly be on Xbox Game Pass. That’s because it is a first-party title published by Xbox Game Studios.
With Xbox Game Pass, hundreds of popular games are included for a single monthly subscription. That means games that users might otherwise ignore at $70 have an opportunity to shine. Hellblade 2 will be one of the highest profile exclusive games coming to the service. And with 23 million subscribers, it is certain to get a tonne more players than Senua’s Sacrifice did on release.
So with all those extra players on tap, if Ninja Theory can pull it out the bag and make Hellblade 2 great, the positive voices of 23 million gamers is almost certain to inspire some serious FOMO.
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Hellblade 2‘s release date is unconfirmed and likely a ways off yet. But when it launches, we expect it to be a blow away success for Xbox Series X.
Are you excited for Hellblade 2? Let us know in the comment section below, and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles…
