Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 - DF Tech Review - The Next Level in Real-Time Visuals

[@cun7us]

This is the first game I've ever seen where the gameplay legitimately looks like CGI. We've been waiting a long time for this moment. Hats off to Ninja Theory for their incredible work.

[@econoinner_force954]

Walking Sim without any acceleration sequence, only one corridor, boring as F*, no interaction, no real physics, only pre-calculated sequences, no AI,not even an insect on the rocks... Easy to flex on graphics in this case, and even so there are horizontal black bars (less pixels), blur and chromatic aberrations everywhere = very partial details.

[@econoinner_force954]

Walking Sim without any acceleration sequence, only one corridor, boring as F*, no interaction, no real physics, only pre-calculated sequences, no AI,not even an insect on the rocks... Easy to flex on graphics in this case, and even so there are horizontal black bars (less pixels), blur and chromatic aberrations everywhere = very partial details.

[@Cronicrisis]

​@@econoinner_force954replying to multiple comments with the same copy paste stuff Actually obsessed and mind broken lmao

[@iSteveGWT]

@@econoinner_force954 there’s definitely some mental issues going on with you 😂

[@nihilityjoey]

​@@econoinner_force954this game has really scrambled Sony fanboys brains they aren't making any sense anymore

[@David_Banner]

It looks stunning, but that audio is just outstanding.

[@econoinner_force954]

Audio is a common binaural trick... much less impressive than complex spatialization of interactive objects. In addition voices say things completely stupid and in a repetitive way, it saturates the attention to fill the void of the game... minimalist combat and puzzles, Zero interaction, zero true Physics, zero Ai... Only precalculated and bland things

[@cun7us]

@@econoinner_force954 the irony of you using the word "repetitive" when you're in the comments writing the same things over and over. You really are boring.

[@dusermiginte4647]

​@@econoinner_force954go and play a remastered remake from zzzZZZzzzony.. 😂🤡

[@GerardoPerez]

@@cun7us exactly 🤣🤣🤣

[@Kuriketto]

@@econoinner_force954 We get it, the APMs aren't high enough to keep your attention. Doesn't mean the game's bland or boring for everybody.

[@nukmuk]

that settings menu really needs to be praised with even the cpu and gpu frametimes shown separately. if only every game had a menu like that

[@FranklinSantana-ye6wl]

Praised for what? Can't even turn off chromatic abberation, the black bars, film grain or any other post process nonsense without going to the config file.

[@nonyabusiness6084]

​@@FranklinSantana-ye6wl No one cares about all that but a few nerds.

[@FranklinSantana-ye6wl]

@@nonyabusiness6084 I mean, I guess. Normies will accept any trash and be content with it. They probably don't even open a settings menu

[@nonyabusiness6084]

@@FranklinSantana-ye6wl "Normies"? You mean people who aren't dorks?

[@nukmuk]

@@FranklinSantana-ye6wl i think it's actually better that way. those effects are "part of the game" and most people probably shouldn't disable them. though if you really want to, you have the config file

[@JFKrum]

This game has to be the new benchmark for HDR gaming. The ray tracing with lumen has a massive range of brightness and makes all the lightning and effects look so realistic. They did such a good job

[@gogadev]

New benchmark indeed.

[@ptrcrispy]

Hellblade 2 is how I'd imagine playable CGI to look like.

[@nasanchez964]

same here. it's like being inside a fvcking movie. I love walking instead of running most of the time. and the combat OMG!!!

[@BasePuma4007]

It literally looks as good as prerendered cutscenes from just 10 years ago.

[@nasanchez964]

@@BasePuma4007 I've been saying for over 20 years that there would come that day where real time gameplay would look like the best cinematic . Well this time has come. Thing is, as much as I want to see this video, I won't see it until I finish the game.

[@rpasiek]

but is it playable...

[@minbari73]

If only the map was playable beyond the tiny avenue it allows you to wander without you being stopped by an invisible wall blocking what can appear to be a visible path. But isn't. I want this level of detail in an open world game. This is a tech demo.

[@AndreThompson925]

John, once again your ability to explain how a game makes you feel and the way you can describe what the devs were aiming for is unparalleled in the game review arena. Honestly, DF is probably the least biased channel for game reviews and technological study, but you guys do both better than anyone on KZbin. Thank you.

[@rationalmale6265]

I concur.

[@petemalogne5219]

Seriously.. that intro gave me chills lol

[@504Trey]

Fscts which is why i respect them

[@Zinkolo]

This has to be a bot. They're insanely biased when it comes to games that favor graphics over gameplay. You seriously don't think there's any bias from DF? Not a hint? These dudes see older games as a novelty only to be respected if they have high end graphics like hell blade. This game is legitimately a parody of AAA gaming and it's disturbing how positive the comments are trying to be about it.

[@joejoe2658]

except DF were just bought out by the monster behind IGN, who are biased towards xbox, which has adorably no vr, no gyro, no adaptive triggers, no haptics. TWO machines every dev hates. fk xbox.

[@gizzyuk710]

What Ninja Theory have done visually is nothing short of outstanding and it only makes me even more excited to see that reveal for Gears 6 cause The Coalition are considered masters of using UE and i have no doubt that when it gets revealed we are all most likely going to be blown away.

[@d3nny667]

Yeah gears 6 is gonna look phenomenal, also helps it wont be held back by xbox one

[@MegaCygnusX1]

Yeah but utterly redundant when you realise its just going to be the same stale pop n stop gameplay they've been rehashing since 2006. Series should have ended at 3.

[@Jay-uw4bu]

@@d3nny667To be fair, Gears 5 still looked amazing on the xbox one

[@viceroy2672]

​@@MegaCygnusX1 If by pop and stop you mean like every other 3rd person shooter game every made. How is it a complaint that in a 3rd person shooter you have to take cover.

[@illusioned0ne]

​@@MegaCygnusX1the same? How gears 5 had 3 player SPLIT SCREEN coop with a robot that created huge openings and easier ability to move forward. The series evolved a lot in gears 5's gameplay.

[@JerryFlowersIII]

This game in OLED HDR has been beautiful. The bright torch in the pitch black cave is so beautifully striking.

[@JerryFlowersIII]

Ninja Theory is one of my favorite devs and I hope to see something new from them with their next project. (If Xbox doesn't toast them) Tho I admit the Senua games aren't the kinds of games that made them a fav for me, but I still like them.

[@JasonDuaineHahn]

I’m not gonna lie, I played this on my 70-inch TV in a pitch black room at night, and it was great, but I kept thinking about how crazy it would look on an OLED. Seriously considering it now after this game.

[@andyward8430]

What oled do you have. I have a C2 and it really is fantastic.

[@chillnspace777]

C1 here looks insane

[@andersonjpa]

C1 here, it's amazing

[@Marcian89]

Hands down best looking game I’ve ever played and the audio is superb. I actually like short games because open world games are overwhelming and I never have the desire to finish them ( except Witcher 3 and Elden Ring ) I highly recommend this game.

[@mundayuk]

Completed in about 7 hours and have take to my hat off to Ninja Theory, for the best visuals, audio and character performances to date.

[@originalbadboy32]

GameSpot still gave it a 6 out of 10, guarantee that if it was a PS exclusive game, it would be 10/10 across the board. MS really has become the whipping boy at this point.

[@chriscollins3225]

​@@originalbadboy32stop lying to yourself kid The Order 1886 did this last Gen and was massacred for it

[@originalbadboy32]

@@chriscollins3225 did what exactly?

[@chriscollins3225]

@@originalbadboy32 " Best Visuals, Audio and Character Performances " It did this while being a short game longer than Hellblade 2 but still fundamentally short asf While being destroyed by outlets for the exact same reasons Hellblade 2 is being destroyed So don't pretend like this is some type of discrimination against Xbox when it isn't 6 years for a 5 hr tech demo is ridiculous

[@originalbadboy32]

@@chriscollins3225 5 hour tech demo... If you are going to argue, do it in good faith.

[@javiersilva2884]

No load screens and no pop-ins. Amazing. I am about 3 hours in and am enjoying the game. I like story games, like Telltale games, Quantic Dream games (Detroit Become Human, Beyond Two Souls). This game is right up there with some of the best.

[@baronsengir187]

Quantic Dream is a good comparison i do not read often enough.

[@robertlawrence9000]

Only a loading hitching mess. Watched someone stream this live on a decent system even at a lower resolution and the game was like a slideshow at times.

[@somethingthatisntcringe757]

Don’t listen to this guy, he thinks David Cage is a good director.

[@javiersilva2884]

@@robertlawrence9000 Playing on the Series X. No loading or performance issues there.

[@tonygunk1886]

On my 4090 it blows me clean away (as I just finished).. the smaller team at Ninja Theory (140 people) they deserve every ounce of credit for bringing to light the battle of psychosis for someone and doing in an unbelievably gorgeous way Bravo 👏

[@blubbntroet]

3:26 All the sentences till this moment makes me so happy!!! Finally someone who Not only understood but also taking into account what was ment to be achieved!!!❤ Thank you so much!!! Rarely these days that someone dives into it and tried to understand and Not just throw out the next review to meet a a deadline ♥️

[@rickysargulesh1053]

It's kind of what I hoped for. It looks unbelievable. Can't believe this is running in realtime. Hats off Ninja Theory.

[@animon9819]

LOL. It's easy to make it look good when all you're doing is walking through tightly choreographed corridors.

[@TheBean87]

@@animon9819looks like this in the heat of battle as well.

[@reelroyalevizion800]

@@TheBean87one on one with the entire surrounding blurred… but ok😂😂

[@icravedeath.1200]

​@@animon9819 says the person with an assassin's creed pfp. Tailing missions take days in those games, did you forget about that.

[@NextgenPL]

Yes It blowed my mind too😅 Cant wait to continue this next gen level journey cause have like only two hours behind :)

[@grim86]

On the audio, people complained so much about tht cave area but the audio, atmosphere and ambience was INCREDIBLE

[@frostzmonkey]

Ok I guess I'll play it.

[@jakecassidycass8098]

MrMattyPlays has his dopamine receptors fried. No xp gained display every 2 mins like in fallout probably confused him.

[@xBINARYGODx]

@@jakecassidycass8098 lol at people talking anything that man child says seriously. He thinks Fallout 4 1.0 with no mods is a great game... so... yeah.

[@freshnesbro3792]

LB+Left Stick = the game. That's why people complain not because of the cave or something else.

[@simonrockstream]

@@freshnesbro3792 Yeah, so you're just going to ignore the masterpiece story, presentation, audio, cinematography, coreography, acting, art, environment, passion, atmosphere and COMBAT which is superior to any other f*cking game ever. Ok bro

[@DonkeyRhubarb21]

Started playing it last night. Series X, LG OLED, headphones. It was a truly beautiful and artistic experience.

[@renatoborba1987]

Finished the game a few hours ago and i think it's an experience like no other. It's good to see DF, specially John, shinning the light amidst so much negativity, amazing work all the way!

[@mopar426power]

Hellblade 2 is visually stunning. Definitely best in class and the audio in this game is 2nd to none. It truly is a work of art. My only gripe is that I wish it were longer. Ninja Theory is a top tier studio.

[@Spydah3kgt]

The fact it leaves you wanting more is a win. Too many games now wear out their welcome and them some...

[@perma4702]

The game is refined to not have weak and flow breaking moments, that's a plus. Wish others did the same (looking at you horizon forbidden west). You don't need everything to be 10-15+ for it to be a memorable and good experience.

[@daelionmr4782]

@@perma4702 Exactly, this 6-7 hours is more memorable than most of the soulless copy pasta open world games that takes you who knows how long to finish for no reason and you forget about it soon after anyway. I've finished Hellblade 1 2 times and loved it same as the second game, I assume that most ppl who shit on the game don't even have the 'capacity' to understand what this game/Senua is about.. 'what a big surprise in today's world when most ppl have the attention span/emotional understanding of a bag of potatoes' Hellblade and the likes are like fresh air imo and I wish that there would be more games like this instead of the samey stuff we get lately.

[@Darkdiver28]

@@perma4702 Yeah. Everything feels carefully crafted. If they went with a bigger world, manpower wouldn't be enough to keep the quality throughout the game. Plus, it is long overdue to have a quick game I can start and finish within days instead of months.

[@504Trey]

Hellblade 2 is easily in my top 5 favorite games of all time 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@hiawa23]

I absolutely loved the first game, and so far, with 2, I am even more blown away. It is what I expected. Thank you.

[@RobertVanderStelt]

This is the first game this generation, on either Xbox, pc or ps5 that when I played, I kept saying "HOLY CRAP!" the visuals and audio are the best I've ever experienced.

[@pc-easy]

ps5???😂how

[@Dmatrio]

Read please.

[@vandammage1747]

30fps and low resolution is not next gen. XSX is a scam

[@elcourier]

@@vandammage1747go cry over you playstation fanbaby

[@SyberXSensei]

@@pc-easy No he’s saying out of everything he has played on any platform, this is the best looking game. Which I agree with completely

[@thedarkness6652]

This is undoubtedly the most visually advanced experience I have ever seen. Played on pc it is simply breathtaking!

[@DerPetrucci]

i had some ignorant peasants stating that "TLOU 2 had better graphics and animations". ridiculous statement.

[@glenn3646]

Wich have better player 3d model HB2 or Callisto protocol?

[@BrentCox2B]

*watched* it on PC lol

[@BrentCox2B]

​@glenn3646 its crazy because the first combat sequence in Hellblade 2 immediately made me think of Callisto Protocol. Not sure how they feel that is good combat....

[@montpbmgaming]

Agreed. Even on Xbox, it looks ridiculously amazing.

[@Medzo2]

Nutshell of the video: Best-looking game ever.

[@504Trey]

Hellblade 2 is easily in my top 5 favorite games of all time 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@Nion8six]

This was the review the game deserved. After hearing/watching so many negative reviews, I expected a mess! Finished it last night, gamepass pc version and wow 👏 Really like how the game leaves you questioning her experience, by the end credits ;(

[@Yababy_Farva]

Glad to read feedback from people who actually played the game and see we share the same experience.

[@Chasm9]

This game has the most technically advanced visual presentation in any game to date. Alan Wake 2 was also realistic, but Hellblade's character models, facial animations, and "cohesiveness" tops it, imho.

[@karma.2781]

The fact that the devs are so confident they let you pause cutscenes and see how they rendered them mid game. So Cool

[@thedude8128]

Too bad Gameplay is mediocre

[@TheBean87]

@@thedude8128gameplay is great, sorry you didn’t like it.

[@sebilsever8961]

To be honest i didn't see any better than other next gen games. Photorealistic cyberpunk is much more better.

[@icravedeath.1200]

​@@karma.2781games should have more of that kind of real time modularity.

[@jamesoloughlin]

Well covered DF team. Loved Hellblade II. Finished last night.

[@Hadgerz]

I am so glad i picked up an OLED HDR monitor a bit before this game's release. The hiddenfolk section, pitch black caves with the torch and all the little particle lights on the floor, chefs kiss.

[@NlneLives210]

The whole cave section was amazing

[@CHR0NIC-UK]

9hrs 36min & 200 screenshots later, I loved the experience, the visuals we amazing & I enjoyed the evolution of her psychosis as it made sense for her to have adapted to it more than the first game. Overall a amazing journey to have experienced.

[@deech.dubois]

I love this comment (and actually the whole comments section), like people are adults and know what this game is about and how well made it is. I saw the latest Yonyea video and that comments section, was like, WTH! Complaining about the voices and such … doh, it’s about psychosis! Like those people live in another universe themselves but don’t realize it.

[@MicrobiusBlue]

Took me a good 10 hours to complete as well and loved every moment

[@bankaispirits]

I finished it yesterday, loved it so much, my only gripes are I wish we had some mini boss fights and lighting them torches 💀 other than that, man this game is just, we need more like this

[@senorsnipey1595]

​ I hear a lot of people are beating it in 5 to 6. Seems short like the order 1886 and yet it's being praised

[@somethingthatisntcringe757]

@@senorsnipey1595$50 for a game that I beat in 7 hours that has no replay value is crazy. The fact it took some people 9-10 means go easy on them because they probably rarely play video games or are old

[@styeiwehdeisfdo]

Cant wait to see what the Coalition does with Unreal Engine 5 for Gears of War 6. Gears of War 5 still looks good and its last gen. These graphics + Gears gameplay = take all my money.

[@kostasbousbouras2654]

The big difference is that Gears 6 will be a way .more demanding game with its combat and gameplay compared to this interactive movie

[@MrWar2050]

​​@@kostasbousbouras2654The Coalition are the Masters of Unreal engine. Just like Ninja theory are the Masters of Motion capture.

[@Highwaysonyfan87]

@@MrWar2050but they will also likely target 60fps on Series X (and 30fps on Series S) so big doubt it’ll look as good as this. Though still will probably be the second best use of UE 5

[@thesorrow4664]

​@@kostasbousbouras2654facts. That's exactly what hb2 is... visuals are truly stunning but gameplay is non-existent

[@dusermiginte4647]

​@@kostasbousbouras2654no clue at all, thats what you got..

[@christheelen8122]

Played it in 7 hours. What a piece of art outstanding. Enjoyed every minute of it.

[@JonathanTacoman]

Ah finally a video about this game that understands what Ninja T was trying to accomplish

[@offspringfan89]

Everyone knows what the developers attempted to accomplish: photorealistic, narrative driven experience at the cost of gameplay.

[@luispalacios8423]

A movie? Because there's no gameplay in this game

[@jean-pierrekey2301]

​@@offspringfan89 Unless you are also spamming this at studios like Quantic Dream, and BlueTwelve, you are being obtuse because it's xbox 😆

[@clownavenger0]

@@jean-pierrekey2301 Many people do. Is this an Xbot thing? Now i can understand why people would be defending it. shoulda been 20 dollars when it contains 1 hour or gameplay. I don't need my games to be 70 hours and have tons of open world crap but this is just a movie with the price tag of a game.

[@jean-pierrekey2301]

@@clownavenger0 Define "many." Also, many publications don't have the same reviewers giving previous entries 9-9.5, then giving the sequel 4-6 with objectively more gameplay than the first, objectively better graphics than the first, and objectively better performance than the first. If the gameplay was a problem, it would have been a problem then. It's like crying about Ubisoft open world tendencies, but ignoring it in Final Fantasy 7 rebirth. Lastly I'm platform agnostic. Calling out a lack of consistency and integrity doesn't make me a "xbot" 😆. Try harder.

[@Rdeboer]

An absolute masterpiece of technical excellence wed to art direction. I have to play this on last gen hardware (XB1X via cloud) and it still shines.

[@econoinner_force954]

Walking Sim without any acceleration sequence, only one corridor, boring as F*, no interaction, no real physics, only pre-calculated sequences, no AI,not even an insect on the rocks... Easy to flex on graphics in this case, and even so there are horizontal black bars (less pixels), blur and chromatic aberrations everywhere = very partial details.

[@alexlyster3459]

​@@econoinner_force954cry harder.

[@ItsIcedDonut]

Someone is annoyed this person enjoyed a game.​@@econoinner_force954

[@miguelroman4294]

Clearly you don't have HB2, CAP​@@econoinner_force954

[@Schraiber]

Holy hell this game looks absolutely astounding. Unbelievable graphics and art direction.

[@symol30872]

Massive leap in real time rendering, looks amazing on my PC. Hats off to Ninja Theory for crafting such a cool/unique experience

[@minbari73]

You may as well thank Epic and Unreal Engine 5 for making it possible.

[@warnext01]

The quality graphics of Hellblade 2 is next level! Its really really a new era of graphics in videogames!

[@lolmao500]

Next level we need these types of graphics + AI powering NPCs you can talk to + open world like skyrim or fallout or something, then itll be really next gen games.

[@ewjiml]

You do realize it looks great because of the aspect ratio right? Literally 15% of the screen is black barred.

[@ulrich7134]

Walking sim,boring combat and 5hr game..ofc the graphics are top notch

[@alxnd_r6345]

Idk man. The order 1886 is 9 years old and looks insane even for todays game

[@Rafael-km9mx]

Medíocre movie. Terrible game

[@JoskoK.]

This Game will change the industry. One of the biggest milestones in gaming history. Also in gameplay. Just finished the first giant and after coming out of that cave looking in the sun on a LG CX you realise with a dry mouth and open jaw that immersion is not skins for your gun or the 100th open world sandbox survival bs. It's this, it's the audio it's the music, it's the artsyle it's this game that takes you into another world.

[@evilsciontist]

Literally this right here. Hellblade 2 is not just a game. It's an experience. It is so insanely immersive in every way. For the last 3 chapters I had chills because of how beautiful the game is, the insane immersion with the sound, the combat was brutal, and the story was captivating. Ninja Theory knocked it out of the park with this one. Also, anyone who played through the game in less than 6 hours had no intention of playing the game as an experience and truly taking it all in.

[@jeang7088]

But only 886 players on steamchart now... change the industry lol

[@Matt-jc2ml]

Slow your roll a bit there lol. A big milestone this gen, but in gaming history?? Crash, SMB64, star fox, resistance, halo?? Big leap but nothing like any of those

[@rationalmale6265]

The game is absolutely amazing. I'm so burned out of open world games. This is exactly what I was looking for right now. Furthermore, the visuals and sound are so so good. Wow!

[@MattSB2588]

Agree. The hours and hours required for open world titles, are simply hours I don't have. This is an experience, not the same old stuff. It can be enjoyed without sapping endless hours of your life.

[@rationalmale6265]

@@MattSB2588 spot on.

[@lolmao500]

We could have next gen open world games... with these kinds of graphics + AI powering NPCs so you could talk to anyone... and AI making quests up as you go depending on what you say to which npc... clearly this is doable.

[@HunterTracks]

​@@lolmao500It might be doable a gen or two from now, but it will also be crap. Games are about a communication between the dev and the player, not about being served an infinite amount of procedurally generated AI slop.

[@rationalmale6265]

@@lolmao500 I think most people don't have the time to play massive open world games anymore. I surely don't. My priorities have shifted and I simply don't have the time or energy. I still like video games though. That is why this game is perfect in my eyes. A nicely focused game that is a pleasure to play for 5-7 hours. And best of all, it was free to play with GamePass. 😀

[@xburk550]

Myself, few games have even come close to Hellblade 2's incredible experience. Love every second of this offering.

[@Demoerda]

Played the first 10 Minutes, and then I handed the controller and headset to my wife. We are both genuinely in awe. The first Hellblade was an intense experience, and Hellblade 2 looks like a fantastic sequel.

[@davisorle]

Told mine not to bother me the next few hours.. 😕

[@jorgec2824]

Absolutely stunning, both Xbox and PC, what a game!!!

[@econoinner_force954]

Walking Sim without any acceleration sequence, only one corridor, boring as F*, no interaction, no real physics, only pre-calculated sequences, no AI,not even an insect on the rocks... Easy to flex on graphics in this case, and even so there are horizontal black bars (less pixels), blur and chromatic aberrations everywhere = very partial details.

[@novinovic298]

Not much of a game more like interactive film

[@jimshmee]

​@@econoinner_force954 should still be celebrated for what it is able to achieve in real time graphics imo

[@g_geezer3277]

What he said 🤣

[@atomickaiser1934]

I think the term game is not being used correctly here

[@creativelyoptimistic1631]

The best looking game I have played in my life. The art style also makes it so full of life as well. Good job Ninja Theory.

[@mosaeed9112]

Finally, a true next-gen game. It'll be years before other games start looking like this.

[@goob8945]

Just tried it yesterday on Series X - the photo mode was amazing! I couldn't stop myself from pausing and fiddling with the camera in AWE

[@johnboylan3832]

Yeah, it is a sign of a truly great game when the most notable thing about it is its photo mode.

[@goob8945]

@@johnboylan3832 never said nor implied that it was. Why do you have to be negative towards a teams hard work?

[@Mathieuacc]

​@@goob8945The why is very simple. Playstation fanboy living in his sister's basement.

[@johnboylan3832]

@@goob8945 Because it is pish. I am not even going to pirate that junk.

[@XY-KROMOSOME]

This is the BEST video game graphics on ANY platform even PC with mods, I have seen to date!

[@UntouchIGF]

You mean like the pc version of this game? Yeah, i agree

[@Khumon_Matitz]

@@UntouchIGF No, he means he game on Series X looks better than any PC game, other than the PC vesrion of this.

[@UntouchIGF]

@@Khumon_Matitz oh, I think I agree.

[@vandammage1747]

​@@Khumon_Matitz30fps and low resolution. No thanks

[@TheRedRaven_]

@@Khumon_Matitz Yeah I still don't get it, there is a PC version of this so again the graphics are better on PC.

[@adriang3492]

Hands down the most beautiful game I've ever played. And I'm glad it was only a few hours short. It was an amazing experience. Not every game needs 1000 collectibles and open world and be 100h long. Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 was just perfect storytelling experience.

[@devinforman8213]

This gets me extremely hyped for Gears 6. The work that Ninja Theory did on this game is top notch and looks amazing. I can't imagine the kind of wizardry The Coailtion will do to Gears 6 in Unreal

[@terloyes]

The best graphics ever in a videogame, and a truly beautiful experience.

[@SundyPlankTon]

That sequence in caves during Hiddenfolk quest will give me nightmares for days, truly an experience

[@stampiboy1]

Oh I know what you are talking about 😂 I was so focus and this moment then I almost have heart attack(don't wanna spoil it)

[@NlneLives210]

I just got done doing the hidden folk part and my god it was amazing

[@fairresolve]

First game running away from the dark will always haunt me

[@12max44]

Played it for an hour yesterday on my PC (RTX 3080) hooked to a sony 4k HDR projector with a 120 inch screen and 7.1 soundsystem. My jaw was on the floor the whole time. It feels like playing something from the future. What an absolutely incredible presentation and sounddesign! Stunning on all accounts.

[@Sedge86]

Were you able to get surroubd sounds working. With my rtx4080 with audio out via hdmi i was only able to be able to get stereo output

[@12max44]

@@Sedge86 Yes it seems to be working as all the voices where quite enveloping and coming from all directions. My PC is connected to an AV Receiver.

[@8K240hz]

can i come over and hang out or something

[@Sedge86]

@@12max44 ok thanks I'll have to do some more digging. I use EARC from the tv back to the receiver but every other game works fine. I might have to enable spatial audio or something?

[@supermanlift]

@@12max44 what is your audio source in the windows control panel ? Is windows set to Dolby Atmos or 7.1? I can’t figure out if this game supports Dolby Atmos. I am assuming not.

[@christraeger5090]

I'm a little over halfway through this game and, in my opinion, it's a masterpiece. Never has a game left my jaw hanging open before. The sound design and graphical quality are all top notch. It's the most impressive gaming experience I've ever had. Ninja Theory has created something incredibly special and I can't wait to see what more they have to offer.

[@johnboylan3832]

Ok, ChatGPT

[@paddipat]

If we're unlucky we won't have anything next as Microsoft just shuts them down...

[@christraeger5090]

@@paddipat The studio is in no danger of closure. The studio has already received approval from Xbox to work on the next game.

[@agus.lorenzo]

Chat Gpt? Dude, his comment is exactly what millions of us are feeling with this game

[@paddipat]

@@christraeger5090 Very good to hear! Was afraid already after all this ominous lack of marketing by Microsoft, it seemed like they wanted the project to fail to have an excuse to shutdown.

[@rozh996]

This game feels like the graphical demos that never come out but you would do anything to play them

[@niellbecker3364]

Well done Ninja Theory! And as always outstanding journalism from Mr L…..I loved the first game, so it’s great to see the follow up is a step above

[@moctezu82]

Just after having played hellblade 2 on a 4080 for an hour and a half, I started playing another game that I thought had good graphics too but it looked bad as if the textures hadn't loaded and I thought it was crashing, a few minutes later I realized that It has always looked like that and it was the Hellblade game that got my eyes used to that level of realism.

[@riqtaru6041]

I cant understand how they made this game...i have just played 2 hours and this game is just out of the world...what a sound what a graphics....i have no words to describe how amazing this game is...this is the best game i ever played on xbox...

[@stampiboy1]

Just wait to experience it all mark my words you'll have goosebumps I never sit that close to a monitor in my live as long as I did playing it

[@riqtaru6041]

@stampiboy1 agree bro....only in second chapter battle it gave me goosebumps ...what a fight was that in dark ....amazing

[@504Trey]

Man I was absolutely blown away playing this game on my 4090 PC.. Hellblade 2 is easily in my top 5 favorite games of all time & im about to play through it again 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@jakub9802]

The best thing ypu get different narrators for the game :D 3 playthroughs. I completed my 2nd today and going for 3rd tommorow. Propably gonna play the game 4 times overall because the first time I played on 1440p gaming laptop(everything on high) and 2nd on a 1080p 40"TV. Both experiences were truly golden in their own waumy, like seing more details and better graphics on the laptop to a movie experience on a 1080p 40" TV. The third time I will play on the tv I think and 4th time again on my PC. Btw. "Game for 8h" nuh uh, already spent 26 hours in game and it is going further BABY

[@riqtaru6041]

Yes everyone.....game is great but gameplay is short...this is the main problem of this game..game should have been around 15+hours...

[@KatalistProductionsKozzySasha]

Finished it last night, took me 8 hours and loved it. Well done Ninja Theory. Hands down the best looking PC game I have ever played. The Audio and story was awesome to.

[@z1om1]

Mind blowing, jaw dropping and goosebumps inducing is my experience with the game....

[@maximusaralieous1728]

Ninja Theory added a bunch of graphical options to the first game over time, so perhaps they will release updates in the future regarding frame rate and graphical settings. I started it last night, it is pretty breath taking on Series X. It definitely feels full on next gen, which has been rare so far.

[@MicrobiusBlue]

Just finished my first playthrough and it's a Masterpiece ❤....going to go in for a second time in a bit which only a handful of games over the past few decades have inspired me to do

[@adriank8792]

I don't think there will be many games this generation that will look better

[@robertwalker3357]

Gears 6

[@furkanaslan600]

because this is not a game. no interactable no combat. just walking. may be there wont be better looking game but at least they will be game.

[@calibrono]

Great interactive tech demo, eagerly waiting for errm more mechanically deep experiences with this level of graphical fidelity.

[@johnshepard8556]

Yeah hellblade 2 is basically yet another tech demo

[@delonejuanderer]

I kinda got an oled specifically for this game and I'm happy I did. QD-OLED looks insane especially in a light controlled room the darks in this game IS DARK and the colors pop like no other in HDR. Truly a beautiful experience.

[@samwalker540]

So tempted to go for an oled for films and my series x , any good?

[@nomind-mb2sl]

​@@samwalker540 yeah

[@nomind-mb2sl]

Im owner s95b. Qd oled is fantastic

[@danielgrezda3339]

After three years I can finally say this: this game feels next gen.

[@axelhopfinger533]

It certainly is a next gen walking simulator.

[@JasonDuaineHahn]

Agreed. I kept stopping mid-game to take in the environment, truly breathtaking.

[@cun7us]

I would say the same with Alan Wake 2, but this has the best graphics to date.

[@danielgrezda3339]

@cun7us that game looks spectacular too!

[@danielgrezda3339]

@axelhopfinger533 I don't get the hate for walking sim games. Not every game needs lots of gameplay, we can have experiences in between movies and games like old adventure games and visual novels. Don't bash it for not being something it shouldn't be.

[@mihaismarandache]

absolutely beautiful game. it took me way longer than it should have to finish because i was always going into photo mode. i couldn't believe how good it looked . stunning .

[@jessetufano6748]

We needed this game in the industry. Ninja theory really set the bar for graphics & Audio.

[@b-radb5483]

Amazing game. Most visually stunning game I've ever played.

[@RB-rf8rf]

Comfortably the most impressive visual experience ever. the rain in itself is an order of magnitude better than anything seen before.

[@Whoozurdaddy]

One of the most emotionally epic games I’ve ever played. The way they melded the audio experience into this graphic masterpiece is just amazing. Instant classic

[@dannypassion]

The last 3 fights are breathtaking

[@504Trey]

Man I was absolutely blown away playing this game on my 4090 PC.. Hellblade 2 is easily in my top 5 favorite games of all time & im about to play through it again 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@dannypassion]

@@504Trey 💪

[@PakluPapito]

This is what you call a proper review. No one does it like DF 🙏

[@stewardappiagyei6982]

1:48 This is so important to remember, Hellblade 2 full development really didn't start till mid-late 2020, smack in the middle of the pandemic. And NT released a game right before that in March 2020, Bleeding Edge, after which they could divert full resources to HB2. They did not develop this game for 7 years as some like to parrot. Keeping that in mind, it's a beautiful short and sweet project and I cant wait to experience more of Senua's story in Hellblade 3.

[@mecharobots]

Looks stunning with a great story and audio. I enjoyed the combat aswell but some mid sections could of cut 10 minutes off . But that's minor knit picks . Can't wait for the 3rd title

[@wauthethird]

Same, I thought the middle cave section dragged on for a bit too long, but otherwise awesome game

[@mecharobots]

@wauthethird yes 100% agree.

[@axelhopfinger533]

What "combat" are you talking about exactly?

[@jerchongkong5387]

@@axelhopfinger533 lol Not everything in this life is God of War kid.

[@GForceIntel]

Senuas 3: the shutdown

[@bendjinzau2495]

Best looking game ever. No even up for debate. Absolutely jaw dropping !!!

[@SeanMarkey-o3z]

Really appreciate the new HDR section in this analysis. Hoping this becomes a staple talking point in future videos.

[@neilmontgomery3470]

Absolutely the best looking game I've ever played. In fact it's not even close.I liked playing it too despite some negative reviews about the gameplay. It's atmospheric, engaging and satisfying. The characters seem very believable. It's short, only about 5 hours but I enjoyed every minute and not every game needs to be epic.

[@JazzzRockFuzion]

I’ll readily admit that I had to warm up to HB2. I initially felt - like many here have voiced - that I was playing a glorified walking simulator. However, I stopped trying to play it as a regular action game and embraced it was for what Ninja Theory clearly created it to be…and I’ve become engrossed. I’m now working through the cave puzzle sequences on my way to the Hidden Folk, and I totally “get” this game. Hats off to the devs for creating a true work of art

[@zorastin]

The first one is amazing too if you havent played it.

[@504Trey]

​@@zorastin Facts

[@alexanderperez2096]

This guy gets it

[@HDDesignz]

Another great video. Always making things easy to understand and providing great breakdowns. Just started the game. I agree, rhetorical intro is very slow. Going to keep playing though. Looks and sounds amazing.

[@mogwha]

Once you have captured the northman and walking to the village with the sunset in the background, it was making squint and looked better than anything I've seen beyond real life, its beauty is only matched by its grit and dirt

[@13ricardoandrade]

This game genre or theme are not my favourite, but the graphics - best i've seen.

[@Swisshost]

Movie games are strange for me, but really respect to the devs.

[@RameoMTL]

Damn what an insightful video. Great work, Digital Foundry team!

[@SeanMarkey-o3z]

Ninja Theory have set the standard in image quality for current gen, but damn is this game on rails. From a tech point of view they should be applauded but I completed in about 5 hours and it felt like I had maybe 50% of actual physical interaction in game.

[@DocRobotnik]

The length really isn't an issue. Plenty of great games last 5 hours or less. Edith Finch, Portal, Inside, Journey, Stanley Parable etc etc.

[@theunbearablejuan]

Sounds a lot like the original. Which I admired over its presentation and storyline. The gameplay? Eh...

[@SeanMarkey-o3z]

@@DocRobotnik I totally agree. I’m all for quality over quantity, I just felt like during that 5 hours, I didn’t have much input, at least when I compare to the original.

[@kevclark8661]

length suits me fine however i completely agree about the gameplay aspect..i didnt feel i was involved init

[@xikaryo6735]

The Last of Us 2 looked better and it was a PS4 game. Same with Death Stranding, Alan Wake 2, Horizon: Forbidden West, the list goes on. Super linear games aren’t impressive, they sacrifice gameplay for graphics. I guess you don’t like games. Go watch movies since it’s clear you don’t want to play anything and just hold one button the whole time.

[@KilliK69]

next generation just arrived

[@vandammage1747]

30fps and blurry image yay...

[@dr.loomis4221]

current gen

[@kennypowers1945]

@@vandammage1747bruh on pc it’s 4k 60. Just say you have a shitty pc

[@256odeon]

​@@vandammage1747well its just another nvidia sponsored tech demo, like alan wake 2

[@invikto9446]

​@@vandammage1747cry baby sonyer 😭

[@axumitedessalegn3549]

Just beat this game. Holy fuck. Beautifully made.

[@proteus5100]

Masterpiece, thank you Ninja Theory and Melina for bringing Senua to life

[@NukeSonyz]

😂😂😂😂 sure

[@chriswhetton3584]

@@NukeSonyzI don’t understand this. I am not going to play this game, it is not for me. That being said, it is still very impressive despite not being a game that appeals to me. I am happy for those who have looked forward to this game and enjoy this style of a game. I don’t go leaving condescending gait keeping concepts on games I don’t like. I could understand hate for a game that released unfinished or underperforms what it promised, but this game is exactly what was advertised and what as expected.

[@nihilityjoey]

​@@chriswhetton3584That's when you can spot a Fanboy.

[@krazyd0nut404]

@@nihilityjoey who the fanboy u speak of? 1 person seem to enjoy it, while the other respect the game and knowing it’s not a game for him.

[@NukeSonyz]

@@chriswhetton3584 because Xbox is not delivering this generation and this is what they're releasing.

[@fred420]

The game is an absolute masterpiece. Never thought in my lifetime would I see graphics like this. It's insane!

[@TNS-AudioMastering]

Excellent review.. I personally think it's great to have this experience.. we have soo many games to choose from this has its place..

[@NextgenPL]

I just played 2 hours and Im blown away by the graphics❤❤❤ It looks miles better than every game ever created. Sometimes is 100 % real visuals!!! Gameplay is also very nice, I like this non hud approach. Will watch this video after finish game to avoid spoilers. Greetings from Poland, "next gen" already started❤❤❤

[@борисрябушкин-з9н]

It doesnot looks miles better than Alan Wake 2. Greetings from Mother Russia.

[@NextgenPL]

@@борисрябушкин-з9н Yes, Alan looks not that much worse, but its only one game basically :)

[@3KPK3]

Lived up to the hype. Easily one of the best looking games ever made.

[@Captainrave]

Absolutely glorious at 4K on an OLED. Those cave sequences blew my mind.

[@FazeredTube]

This is it. Next Gen has FINALLY arrived! I have only played the first few hours and had multiple times where I just stopped and audibly said WOW! The visuals, the audio (headphone on!), the story telling, the atmosphere and the cinematics are absolutely top notch. I am blown away and I can’t even remember the last time I felt this way with a console game.

[@vandammage1747]

Too bad 30fps and black bars feel and look lame

[@FazeredTube]

Go and tell that to cinema. I am a big fan of 60/120fps, but hasn’t been a time with this game that I missed it. Think of it as a cinematic experience.

[@vandammage1747]

@@FazeredTube Lmao an interactive game has nothing to do with cinema. And cinema is 24fps btw

[@saelesbonsazse9919]

I'm so glad John made this video!

[@clivedamagedgoods]

It's another incredible game from Ninja Theory. I can't wait to see what they cook up next.

[@Neovalen]

This game is absolutely incredible and immersive to play. If you have any interest in this game at all, I encourage you to buy it and support the devs so we can continue to receive more of this in future.

[@williewilson2250]

​@youtubeaccount7544cool...I guess? You gain nothing and they lose nothing from you doing that as they clearly aren't losing any potential money if you aren't gonna play it

[@defeqel6537]

Waiting for it to come to GOG

[@sayarimamani3605]

​@youtubeaccount7544wow, you're so cool and edgy! Bet your dad is proud of you

[@bizzy511]

I recommend people subscribe to games pass to play it. It’s beautiful to look at, but the gameplay is extremely boring.

[@twocityfoodies8476]

Hellblade 2 is the perfect game to showcase on a channel like Digital Foundry as the visuals are simply stunning. Unfortunately, the gameplay itself just isn't matching the incredible visuals shown. I know it is just personal preference but I want to have more game here. Similar to what we get with Naughty Dog, Santa Monica, Sucker Punch, and Insomamic. All of those companies make visually stunning games but there is much more game to control here. But no doubt, this game is easily the best looking game this generation.

[@defeqel6537]

Much like the first game, this one seems more like an audio-visual experience with gameplay elements rather than a game, but that's not terribly uncommon and I quite liked Senua's Sacrifice and will check this one out once I can get a decent GPU upgrade (ie. enough of an uplift for the price)

[@irnchriz]

Credit to Microsoft for letting Ninja Theory create the game they wanted to make with their small team. Other studios would have forced them to make the game longer and add multiplayer.

[@jasonash6002]

lol if this was a Sony game 🤡

[@jcfan1979]

Absolutely a stunning visual and audio experience. Pretty much what I expected it to be. Sure I'd like a little stronger story, puzzles, and more combat variety but for the type of game it is it works on pretty much every level for me. A few slow parts that could be altered to tighten the pacing but this game is great. Kudos to the developers, actors, artists, etc. that clearly poured their hearts into this project.

[@miljanvideo]

Not every game needs to be "INNOVATIVE" and "REVOLUTIONARY" I fully enjoyed the game and it's worth the gamepass price. Also, 3lateral is the best studio ever.

[@mayen67]

Absolutely incredible. fantastic analysis.

[@rabbitenjoyer6320]

Incredible visuals, but I'd argue the soundscape is just as laudable. Sheesh, it's so creepy! On my summer games list for sure

[@cody3335]

added the bars to the screen to add that filmic look do a pretty good job at increasing performance a little.

[@jamescole3143]

Thank you DF!

[@hiro4476]

@33:16 the combat is unique and the transition inbetween battle & inbetween scenes are really well designed and smooth. No hiccups (character teleporation etc).

[@dr.loomis4221]

It is fascinating seeing all these Xbox players on Twitter/X praising this game. They call The Last of Us and God of War "movie games that play themselves"...but now it's fine since it's on your console of choice? Make it make sense. Anyways, I look forward to trying it out this weekend.