The wait is finally over for Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, as the highly anticipated sequel launches today, nearly seven years after the original game. Developer Ninja Theory aims to maximize player immersion and push technical boundaries with the sequel, and the graphics play a big role here.
This is why the Cambridge-based studio has worked tirelessly to make the game look as realistic as possible, raising the bar for what’s achievable on current-generation Xbox consoles and PCs. The reviews further validate this, with critics endlessly raving about the graphics.
Hellblade 2 Is An Absolute Stunner Graphically
Ninja Theory set out to make Hellblade 2 a visual marvel, and achieved it. The game utilizes the power of the Xbox Series X and Unreal Engine 5 to create stunningly realistic environments and character models.
The graphics in Hellblade 2 will absolutely blow your fucking mind! 🤯
It is THE next gen showpiece running on Xbox Series X pic.twitter.com/wcpVMjLcgG
— Stallion83 (@Stallion83) May 21, 2024
Reviewers have lauded the game’s intricate details, from the textures of Senua’s clothing to the sweeping landscapes she traverses. Environments range from vast, sun-drenched plains to frigid, ice-laden mountains, each rendered with a level of detail never before seen in video games.
This visual fidelity is apparent in the game’s characters as well. Facial capture technology brings Senua and those around her to life with remarkable realism. However, some reviewers have noted that the script doesn’t give these characters enough depth, despite the quality of the performances.
Beyond The Visuals, The Sequel Slightly Falters
While the graphics are undeniably impressive, the reviews enter more mixed territory when it comes to the overall package. Several critics have praised the game’s audio design, highlighting the immersive soundscapes and music that effectively capture the turmoil within Senua’s mind.
The combat system, while visually striking, has perhaps drawn the most criticism for being repetitive and lacking in depth. The focus on heavily scripted sequences and cutscenes also detracts from player agency, according to some reviewers.
A bigger concern centers around the narrative as well. The original Hellblade was lauded for its exploration of mental illness and its ability to create a sense of unease and ambiguity. Early reviews suggest that Hellblade 2 struggles to recapture that emotional impact, with a story that feels predictable and less developed compared to its predecessor.
While Hellblade 2 undoubtedly pushes the boundaries of graphical fidelity, the critical reception suggests there may be more to a successful game than just stunning visuals. It excels at everything to do with the way it looks, but falls somewhat short in other aspects.
Fans of the first Hellblade game will likely appreciate the return to Senua’s world, as well as the heightened sense of immersion, but is it enough to win Game of the Year? Likely not, but the Best Graphics awards are definitely on lock.
