03 Crafting Senua - Development Diary | Senua's Saga: Hellblade II

By capturing the likeness of real actors and handcrafting costumes using traditional techniques, we’ll achieve a level of realism that will further immerse you in our story. In our latest Development Diary we explore how we achieved this with Senua.
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Wish list Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
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[@MurihSantos]

Take the time you guys need, the first game was such an incredible experience. We can wait to have the best experience possible❤

[@trzmouhamouha2119]

Yeah take time to 2099😆

[@mrmousey909]

Always the future huh xbot

[@funswae]

Look at the ponies they get here before the fans 😂 sad

[@adityan3208]

lmfao these ponies always come in all xbox related content. Go play spiderman 2, oh I forgot its buggy rn so you're stuck hating.

[@mrmousey909]

How did starfield turn out? still enjoying that 83 meta flop? or bored like everyone else? I long for the day xbots get any content but please stay mad

[@rokindokin7949]

I had the distinct pleasure of speaking to Melina after she sent me a signed poster featuring the first game. I am absolutely smitten with Senua and this game and its new series, and I absolutely cannot wait to play the sequel. Please take your time, and know that I am an absolutely massive fan, full of respect for everything everyone at Ninja Theory is doing. 🙏

[@Wesker824]

Sortudo 😢😢😢 tbm queria um autógrafo😑😑. Mas está certo!! Esse game é uma obra prima🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷❤️❤️❤️💚💚💚

[@angelfuturejob]

When creation meets passion you unleash perfection.

[@etsunao]

♥ exact

[@theivadim]

I've just finished playing through this masterpiece of a game and now came here to see how it was made. Your hard work and extra details were all worth it. Hellblade 2 is an experience unlike any other game I've played. I'm looking forward to whatever project comes next. Big thank you to everyone who made this game possible!

[@HerbertLandei]

The decision to "cast" Melina for the first game was both brave and foresightful, and I'm so excited to see her in the second part. If you don't know the story: She was just jumping in as a body double, with her "real" job being a video editor. A lot of fans liked her immediately, and suggested to give her the role. It's highly unlikely we would have seen such a performance from a "professional" actor, there is something very intense and raw in her acting. And it's good to see how the role helped herself to grow, to become more confident, more open, and to trust in her abilities.

[@iambicpentakill971]

I'm confident that I good actress could have pulled off the role admirably. That is literally their craft. That said, Melina was perfect for the role, and turned out to be a fantastic actress for this role in her own right. I can't imagine anyone else as Senua, and wouldn't want to.

[@JimboLP]

THIS!!! This is the level of dedication from a Developer that will make me even pre-order their product! Loved playing the first game! Can't wait for the rest of the Saga! Love you guys!

[@Spectru91]

indeed...it would be awesome if all the developers were this passionate about their work:D true artists

[@slippercream]

Absolutely beautiful game - in every way. The story. The drama. The storytelling. The craft. The art. The cinematography. The science. Was completely enthralled by the first. Absolutely floored with this second. Cannot wait for the third! Keep it up, Team! You've made an absolute masterpiece with these two games!

[@johndenver9776]

I just want to say that the first game was so great and memorable it will always stand out as a masterpiece. Can’t wait for HellBlade 2.

[@zombiedeath23]

Game came out a few days ago, I finished two days ago, let me just say not only is the game itself beautiful, but you guys have crafted one of, if not the GREATEST game franchise of all time. The amount of effort and love put into the game is clearly shown within the final product. I’d wait years to play the next game because you guys didn’t sacrifice the feel, and beauty of the game unlike other studios. Please keep up the absolute amazing work, and make sure everyone at ninja theory knows that their hard work and dedication has given us the greatest gaming experiences of all time!!

[@jdKingg_]

Well said comrade. Best wishes to Ninja Theory, they are already in my personal top 3 best game designers of all times

[@tonygunk1886]

Just coming back for a quick response to your game (as it’s now released) You guys f*ing nailed the story/animation/meshes, and mostly her facial expressions.. one of the most gorgeous games I have ever played in my 30 years of gaming Bravo Team, bravo 🎉

[@s.p..smdness8748]

Please tell me you're gonna make a Development Diary about the music and your collaboration with Heilung !

[@eyvin_helvetia]

Since I played this game in 2017. I still have Senua's face as wallpaper in my phone untill now. I really love the Senua's Sacrifice, hope the Saga will be better or at least as good as the first one

[@VenVile]

This developer is so underrated. I'm hoping Hellblade 2 puts Ninja Theory right up there with the more well-known heavy hitters in the industry. The first Hellblade is in my top 5 games, of all time! It absolutely blew my mind, and brought me to tears! Thank you Ninjas!

[@matjakobs8612]

Im playing your game and its absolutely beautiful. Best graphics of 2024. Melina is a great actress. The game looks so real. Unbelievable. Its a piece of art. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@imvengeance2047]

What an incredible job, you can see the effort, passion and affection put into every detail by your team. As a player and person, I can only wish them the best in each of their projects and thank them for the quality of their work.❤

[@joshuadavies2541]

Dude I just gotta say guys your game literally saved me. I've been so lonely and just basically giving up on life I felt tired and done. Senuas sacrifice just helped me mentally so much man I appreciate you guys so much. That is the love I want. Someone who will go to fuckin hell to release my soul if that's what it takes. I loved the story man just so much. Thank you guys

[@definitelynotapervert]

Oh Man I miss that unique experience, first time playing was mind blowing

[@javanegraham5391]

This game is going to take Xbox to another level

[@steelright1071]

Love the passion you guys put into everything!! I will be there day 1 to play no matter when you guys release, take all the time you need!

[@AntisepticHandwash]

It is so gratifying to see Melina in full makeup and costume! Senua is real! 🤩

[@Spectru91]

you guys are true artists...all the developers should be like this

[@brendanmcavoy6639]

I tried the first game just as a "sure why not" and it absolutely blew me away. You guys take all the time you need, we will patiently wait and when its done ooohhhh boy oh boy oh boy.

[@paddyk6313]

Amazing attention to detail and craftsmanship at its finest. Can't wait to play this when it's ready and experience Senua's journey. Thank you for all your hard work ❤

[@myaiua]

It's been a rough couple weeks and I downloaded the game once again to re-experience it. It was a pleasant surprise to see this diary pop up in the Steam library, and I'm glad I watched it. The way you approach the game and the amount of time you devote to so many minor details is astonishing. I know nothing about the game dev industry, but I hope that one day a lot of big studios will get inspired by your craftsmanship. Please, take all the time you need to finish the game an release it in the best possible form. I hope there're no business stakeholders behind your back who push you with their deadlines. What you've created in the first part of the Saga is more than just a game. Thank you for that. You're incredible.

[@Mayorofsexytown1303]

This is such a cool studio. Really pushing the evolution of art and tech.

[@SWOTHDRA]

Sony really made a mistake not buying this studio

[@Nathan_pereira]

​@@SWOTHDRA and i hope they never do

[@02370clement]

As a character artist, I want to thank you all deeply for pushing further and further the quality of this amazing art. You did it with Hellblade, and you are doing it even more with Hellblade II. Thanks for elevating the quality more and more. This is truly inspiring. ♥

[@Ale-mv3gr]

The game is wonderful! Thank you for your hard work!

[@randomthings1293]

Sure, if you want to watch games instead of... you know... PLAYING them.

[@ronaldrobinson7728]

You guys did amazing, now this is how I envisioned this Gens graphics to look when I got my series x and ps5. You guys delivered! I'm at awe staring at my screen, I loved the 1st game and itsconcept but this one put me over the top, mind blown. Congrats and thanks for pushing our machines, you set the new standard

[@ChancioGames]

I streamed the first roughly two hours of Hellblade II and am absolutely blown away so far.. I feel like half of the stream was me stopping and saying "wow"

[@JosephTheAustin]

It's incredible seeing the original costumes. I still can't believe Melina went from a non-actor to an award-winning star in one single, accidental leap. It just goes to show, sometimes we dont know what we're capable of until we're thrust into it.

[@wreckloosecibblecaboot]

this game really did it for me on soo many levels which is hard to describe. I love the lore of this character and the actress. I want prettty pleeeaassse a part 3 to this game. I haven't fell this alive going through the experience that SSHB2 deeply put my soul through as i played and beat it all in 2 days. Make a part 3 and kept it silent til its launch the surprise that i got with all the visuals, story, emotional nuances, and preservation of its time period was absolutely well received to all my senses - ALL AT ONCE

[@alfredolangarica6824]

Thank you for posting these diaries it's always great to see the work and effort behind this, as fans it makes us feel closer to the devs and everyone involved, keep up the good work ✌🏼♥️🇲🇽

[@SigmaGodMan]

Just one makeup session took them more time than the player to finish the game.

[@Majician]

Looks like another Game Of The Year Award.

[@StatesGames]

These awards are useless, but Melina is convincing to receive Best Performance

[@hectortorres8188]

They didn't show anything, you simp

[@jennahaze6835]

Doubt it i sense lack of confidence in the game by the developer since we still haven't seen alot of gameplay. I dont care about how a game was made i want to know what does the game look and play like when im holding a controller.

[@jeffreyjohnson5823]

Perhaps you should do more looking. There is footage out there and besides that it's definitely a good thing showing what goes into making a game like this. The story of how something great was made is just as refreshing as enjoying the product that was made.@@jennahaze6835

[@Majician]

@@jennahaze6835 Spoken like someone who's never played the first game, and has no clue how game development works.

[@FallenChocoCookie]

The effort was absolutely worth it ❤ what a wonderful game you have created

[@heyguyslolGAMING]

So glad you guys share the dev diaries. Ty so much.

[@andrewrehberg2414]

The first Hellblade is in my top 5 of all time, and watching this after playing the second is amazing. Loved the game, I hope we get more of them. The cerebral aspect of both games is unlike anything I've ever played, and likely will ever play. After you're done you just sit back and think. What was real, was any of it real? Then seeing this behind the scenes on how they captured the actresses likeness is amazing. Definitely the best game graphically ever.

[@mbnqpl]

You are amazing guys. Thank you so much for art you're creating.

[@victorbaptistella5462]

Take the time you guys need, the first and second game was such an incredible experience. We can wait to have the best experience possible in senuas 3

[@bahman_]

i'm baffled by the people who disliked this video , what goes through their head really .

[@paccacio2935]

😢😢hate i guess

[@wulfhrafnragnarsson]

It's called jealous hate from ponys.

[@wulfhrafnragnarsson]

So you're admitting you're a pony. As I said jealous hate. Speaking of gameplay. Hellblade has shown gameplay. You're a prime example of asking stupid questions that have obvious answers. If you're actually capable of doing something as simple as research anyway. However that seems to be a thing beyond the very limited capabilities of dimwitted individuals though. But back to the topic. Where was the gameplay at Sonys State of Mid? Where's the gameplay for Wolverine? Where's the gameplay in any of Sonys "games"? Impossible to tell when everything's a cutscene.

[@wulfhrafnragnarsson]

That's you're argument. Stop being a nice guy that excepts delays and excuses? I'd rather have the excuse of a delay that results in a quality product rather than except having half baked trash like Spidermid 2. Maybe you should stop accepting less than mediocrity and lies. But Sony loves serving that up to ya'll on a platter and you eat it all up. Then ask for more everytime. Claiming you don't have a TrashStation doesn't make you any less of a pony with the bs you're spouting though. You're definitely giving off pony energy.

[@TheSlanderousTruth]

​@Hellwyrm_NL shameless delays and more excuses ? Let Devs release a quality product. This isn't burger King you can't always have it your way

[@dany604]

I have just bought Senua’s Sacrifice and I am looking forward to finishing it. After, it’s time for Senua’s saga when it will be released. Good job developers. It’s looks breath taking. 🎉🎉🎉

[@jacobterpstra7490]

Beyond excited. Thank you for putting your entire hearts and minds into this.

[@WHYGANNT]

The level of detail in the way details are being captured is truly impressive. From using the insane macro lens to capture Milena's blinking, to fully crafting Senua's Clothes. It'll be great to finally play this labor of love upon release, thank you for these diaries!

[@christycho9871]

Just finished the 1st game. Hands down the best character facial animations / expressions I've ever seen in a game ... even better than RDR2 ... which really draws you into the experience. Fantastic work from the developer.

[@WayneAlexander]

Melina Juergens is awesome! I loved her portrayal in the first game and no doubt will win awards for this. I will definitely be buying this on PC so I can max it out as much as I can. Been waiting on this game for a long long time. Incredible work by Ninja Theory and of course the many deserved accolades for Melina for making such a compelling character "real"!

[@UltraWide-Gamers]

This game is a work of art.. Well done Ninja Theory. I enjoyed "Sacrifice" and Saga is in a league of its own.. Keep up the great work and I will look forward to the 3rd instalment....and dont listen to the gráta börn...

[@klimovskiyal]

When you put so much effort in a game development. You truly put a soul into the game itself. Thank you for this!

[@WhyRunning]

This is what I call art.

[@sharkbaitoohhahha]

I truly believe this game will set the bar for a decade or more. EDIT: They had a chance to set the bar, and they failed. Short game, tons of graphics issues....not worth the full price.

[@boohoo5419]

i bet you also believe in santa clause..

[@sharkbaitoohhahha]

@@boohoo5419 No, but I believe you're a coward and a wuss, oh look, I'm right!

[@PSYCHOV3N0M]

"Set the bar" is too vague. Be specific. Set the bar for graphics? Story? Gameplay? Lighting?

[@sharkbaitoohhahha]

@@PSYCHOV3N0M Yes.

[@rosumparat]

Indeed, set a bar for who's gonna spend a hell of a long time to create a 6 hours or less game.

[@shamelesshayden621]

I just bought the game I'm so excited to continue Senua's journey😆

[@vertigoz]

She's the dark Disney Princess I didn't knew I need ❤❤

[@manueledarman8030]

Just finished the game, for me it's a 10/10 You all amazing! Can't wait for the next, it is probably the best game I ever played, the immersion, the amazing world scenes, sound, direction, you put a lot of love in it and this is the results. Hard works pays. WOW

[@manythingslefttobuild]

Thanks for the update, great to see you making physical costumes to scan. Looking forward to the game, take your time.

[@nooneinparticular9868]

I would love to see a movie. She is amazing. It would be something.

[@davidblanch]

Thank you very much, not only for your art but also for all the work and effort you put into this project. Moreover, for sharing with the community all this creation process. No doubt this will make us enjoy even more every single detail of the game.

[@ayungzaraki9738]

The hardwork you guys put in is evident. GOOD JOB. God bless you.

[@OkamiVIEW]

Love to see people be able to work so passionately on their project. The first Game is one of my absolute favorite stories ever. Looking forward to see your next!

[@LobsterMikee]

This is pure love to your job. Beautiful.

[@LostHope1982]

I'm so ready for this wonderful piece of art!

[@annag6145]

This is my favorite game !! Thank you to you all, creative team that did it❤

[@Ivan-R-Tist]

I have to tell you... You are an INSPIRATION for me and for all of us I believe. Thanks for what you do 💚

[@Avid921]

I am very excited for this to release. The first game was extremely immersive with the visuals and audio, I cannot wait for it to made even better for the second saga.

[@paigebowers2076]

The first game continuously proves to be my favorite game of all time for so many reasons. Everything you put out about the game gets me more and more excited. Please take your time to make this the best it can possibly be because wow this game looks like it's going to be incredible. what a phenomenal team too. cant wait!!

[@aswangplays]

Incredible work!! Very excited to see firsthand how this all pays off

[@sakarakit5835]

HYPE! Thanks for bringing understanding to those of us that suffer with the same afflictions... Ninja Theory helps us feel less alone.

[@War.Games.Official]

Esta ficando incrível, parabéns! 😍

[@Clipahoy]

We will miss you Ninja Theory.

[@rbm.artworks6062]

Love the first game cannot wait to play the second one next year. These is amazing to watch you create Senua, the costume development is so inspiring 😍

[@grantsarette6017]

I really wish that companies would do more "how it was made" type videos. I love seeing the process going in to making video games. If this one is like the first, its really just an interactive movie.

[@tinobrown1780]

One of my most anticipated games so far this gen. I’m hoping to be completely transported when I play this. Always nice to see how hard people work to make art come to life.

[@edselroad]

seeing her facial scars from the final battle in the first game hit me squarely in the feels, man. brought the emotions back big time

[@itshard2spell]

this is fantastic BTS. It's so cool to highlight these individuals that are in the background of a video game but really bring so much detail and story into the physical components

[@War.Games.Official]

It's looking amazing, congratulations! 😍

[@konstantinoskoutoukis]

This in Not just a Game... THIS IS ART!!! 😉😊💙

[@benlogan4038]

Neat to see so many experts practicing their respective crafts

[@TheRaven8]

Thank you for these videos. I can’t wait for this game but would rather wait for a gorgeous experience. The first game has been a powerful weapon in my arsenal against mama and depression.

[@emmagoro2010]

i gonna pay every game you launch guys, you make me feel an a expierence i never play before, thanks for make me cry a lot

[@oxide9679]

Collecting TERABYTES of data for every minute they scan? Holy shit. This is LOTR Weta Workshop levels of insane detail. That's so cool that I'm at a loss for words.

[@sprogthedog]

This game is the sole reason i got myself an Xbox X. I can’t wait to play it

[@DanielFF-ol9rq]

After this breathtaking part 1, im sure that Ninja Theory will raise the level of immersion too never seen hights. I Love It 💚❤

[@Manuel-rl6um]

I feel the love you're putting on this. Take your time guys.

[@jethzeeltorres9727]

I loved the first game . I’m eagerly waiting for this masterpiece. ❤❤❤❤❤ I’ll be pre purchasing this .

[@juangbetancurs6996]

i LOVE it.....Cant wait.💚

[@DGamer76]

You guys put so much time and effort into your games. This game is going to be off the chain. I personally cannot wait to experience this creation.

[@brinieplayer]

It’s not normal to show Melina’s makeup 4 years after the first trailer.

[@NeekoFrmBR]

We love the detail Guys keep the amazing job Team!!

[@RidinWithMyLocsOn]

What an amazing team and first game, can't wait for this to get released too!

[@hamedmolazienal1441]

I'm so hyped for the game. I'm pretty sure you guys are doing your job at the best level possible. Seeing your efforts and ingenuity on this video makes me even more and more excited to play Hellblade 2, considering you're great job with the first game. Best wishes.😍

[@SeraphimCramer]

Watching this, I can't help myself from thinking back to how Melina was originally just a member of the development team who was only supposed to be a placeholder until they hired a "real" actress, & yet she's gone on to win awards for her performance despite having no prior theatre experience. Truly a stroke of fate the day that she was chosen to stand in for Senua.

[@Felix-ve9hs]

Too many games today are rushed to completion because of arbitrary deadlines, and the quality suffers immensely as a result. I really appreciate you taking the time to create something special, something that will be remembered long after its release.

[@xenomorphiia]

oh man, Senua's face has got a hell of a lot more scars on it now. So excited for the new game!

[@cyberbfostar]

She gotta be one of the best actors I've ever seen.

[@freebirdcanfly2827]

All my respect to the all team, they really set an example to follow and I can’t wait to play this new adventure ❤

[@YuriShelicopters]

The quality and the attention you guys are spending in creating this world is very admirable. In today's world, where everything is about money and timetables, it is refreshing to see you guys show the rest of the world how to do a game well. Love you ninja. Take your time. Looking forward to this masterpiece.

[@brinieplayer]

They already released Ghost of Tsushima, 2 times in this half time.

[@crestfallenknight7983]

Finally, the gameplay! I really love the combat

[@TheLakotariver]

WOW, Just amazing.

[@aheenobarbushenocied9880]

It's gonna be mind blowing.

[@kenterio]

Когда компьютерная игра становится искусством. Спасибо за титанический труд.

[@pedrosales4096]

For all people saying "The game is taking too much time", "Where is the gameplay" (they already show it btw), what game did you have play it that have THAT level of realism made in less than 3 years? Answer: None Great art takes time...

[@sean7332]

That gameplay where senua throws a spear then runs away for 5 seconds, that is not proper freedom gameplay it's a linear scripted boring segment.

[@funswae]

​@@sean7332better than god of Walk and horizon

[@sean7332]

@@funswae I mean that's just not true lol they have so much gameplay

[@MrWar2050]

The only game I see having the same realism is GTA 6. Ninja theory is about to create a masterpiece of gaming art when it comes to this game.

[@GregH999]

@@sean7332 Just like Spiderman 2

[@franciscofarias6385]

If we want brilliant, historically accurate and technologically extraordinary games like this I guess we can't rush it. Thanks for the unmatched work, I can't wait to play it!

[@Moonfaster]

Stunning