Senua's Saga: Hellblade II - Before You Buy

[@battlekingad8291]

I don't mind short games. But 7 years to make a 6 hour game? I don't think these next gen visuals are worth this long of a wait.

[@nissahauer4309]

They actually stayed the game in 2019

[@aidankhaos7687]

Games are improving. Guess what that means? Longer production is going up. The better the finished, and polished.

[@jonahbrown5669]

​@@aidankhaos7687"games are improving" Ah yes, because gamebreaking glitches, tons of visual bugs, crashes, microtransactions, etc are such improvements over the PS2 era and before.

[@M3atheadGaming]

Quality over quantity my friend, the first one was fantastic and it also had a similar runtime (about 7 hours) but the experience was amazing. I understand that for some 50 euros / dollars is too much for a 6-7 hour game, but the quality of those 6 hours really matters. This is not some CoD single-player campaign man.

[@allthatishere]

​@@jonahbrown5669Did PS2 era games not have bugs in them? Why are you making it sound like every single game released now is broken? Are you only playing Ubisoft games and Madden?

[@yodelingham2006]

I like how we got some interesting thoughts and straight up gameplay

[@watchingyoutube_]

And this free grain of salt, neat

[@GorilladeChacarron]

😂

[@awesome_life6728]

You know how this goes by now.

[@Djaermi]

I subscribed because video games, but I also heard that pizza's on him.

[@delsonjm1849]

IGN could never

[@GreaseCrease]

Man gaming these days is such a let down

[@Iversonwings1]

I want to see the speedrun now

[@DeathlessRaegan]

Speedrun would be legit!

[@brooklynvlogs9396]

You called it subjective but unironically you felt like a voice in my head explaining all of my feelings toward this game.

[@Gamer-jn3be]

I watch these videos with no intention of buying games I just like the content

[@Mavman42]

good for you

[@Vantage381]

Gamepass it, not worth buying.

[@jaycobcreighton3646]

The first one more or less define single player narrativies for me as an adult, legitimately pushed the envelope for experiences I'd had gaming. I'm an hour or so into Hellblade II and I'm adoring the gameplay and atmosphere, ninja theory has a way of crossing beautiful and haunting in such an amazing way.

[@migsplays28]

Dreamcast guy loved this game!

[@harryballz4260]

🤣 Of coarse he did.

[@DeyDeyxFRAT]

You nailed it. I was really stoked for it and then slightly underwhelmed

[@Jmerithew87]

It’s wild when you realize that there was less time between A Plague Tale 1 and 2 compared to Hellblade 1 and 2 when Asobo took a much larger leap forward. Especially when Microsoft is asking 50 buckaroos for a 5 hour experience.

[@Erlaxis]

That Plague Tale sequel was so damn impressive.

[@Jmerithew87]

@@Erlaxis I feel like it really set the bar for what a narrative could be. It was so much more than a “walking simulator”.

[@matodragonespor5000]

They don't want you to buy it, they want you to play it on gamepass so they can proudly say they have a lot of people using the service... while also turning on Ninja Theory saying the game didn't sale well

[@Jmerithew87]

@@matodragonespor5000 yup, the fate that worked out so well for Tango and Hi-Fi Rush… the current state of Xbox, or what feels more like “Microsoft Gaming” now is infuriating.

[@dew4h]

​@@Jmerithew87 Have you really played Hellblade(1) & 2? It`s a perfect sequel imo, that takes everything from the first game to the next level and develops the characters and lore further. Don`t understand the complaints, what did you want from the second part?

[@whitehorsept]

To late. 😅 Already bought, finished and left a steam review. The game is a master piece. To finish in 6 hours you need to race the full thing.... I took about 8 and half. Enjoying the game at a normal pace and playing in the hardest mode to have more satisfaction from the fights.

[@foamyejay]

IMO the best part of the first game was the constant looming “permadeath” if the black marks fully engulfed you. That with the voices telling me I was going to get flanked had me on edge in the best way. Also the whole Norse mythological aspect was so fun to interact with.

[@demontferrat]

Morse Code Mythology. And yes, loved the Nordic gods stories as well. Baldr one for example.

[@retroman3960]

I thought the permadeath thing of the first game was a myth?

[@cutepotato_22]

​@@retroman3960 yeah i guess it was

[@jdphillips7539]

@@retroman3960You didn’t know that when it first came out though. You believed it.

[@goatlps]

Permadeath was a lie, BTW. They just said it was in-game to cause stress, but it didn't exist - not that the game was hard at all, only got killed a few times, and I only need 3 attempts at most for the toughest boss.

[@rosameltrozo5889]

I want to play just for Heilung's music

[@XGothWolfX]

Damn right. My wife and I saw them at the Hanover Theatre this past tour, what an AMAZING experience.

[@rosameltrozo5889]

@@XGothWolfX so jealous, they cancelled the show i was going to

[@truthbetold6496]

This looks like Tomb Raider 2013

[@Fairenough169]

Just finished this game. Loved the first one, and once again I seriously appreciate a truly immersive experience. I don’t need level up gimmicks or new costumes. Some more difficult puzzles would’ve been nice but overall, just WOW. These 7-8 hours are worth far more to me then 95 percent of RPG’s or live service games

[@dsouthernflyboi]

So Hellblade II is going to end up on countdown list in a year called “Games that should have been an Expansion.”

[@MrCode4money]

Falcon is compiling the list as we type. 😆

[@maxcanonstunner6532]

More like "Games that should've been movies"

[@cocoino2307]

Or a dlc

[@Veruziaa]

welp, goodbye ninja theory.. xbox is gonna get you next !!!!!

[@brutaljustin1349]

Oh dear, now I really fear for Ninja Theory.

[@DrMarjanTercelj]

Bought Xbox just to play this game. Once was not enough. So it's the first game to play 2nd walkthrough immediatly after finnishing. Most cinematic=movie like and photorealistic experience ever. Great camera movement (blocking). Dark tone and hard topic are not apealing to wider player audiance. Amazing game.

[@Mayor_Of_Eureka17]

The first one helped me with the suicide of my sister. .I actually reached out to Melina about it and had a pretty solid correspondence between her about it. Great studio and game. I am excited to play this one on a much lighter note.

[@rrr5108..]

Hope you are doing well now man❤

[@Mayor_Of_Eureka17]

@@rrr5108.. I am my friend. I really appreciate that.

[@ivanexell-uz4mv]

❤

[@Liam_Oliver]

I've used the first one to explain to friends how it's like because they just don't get it. One of them rings me weekly now to make sure I'm still breathing! *AND* it helped his missus understand the loss of her sister years ago. The way they handled such a delicate issue, and portrayed something that varies massively from person to person in such an encompassing way impressed me massively. Put off playing the first one for so long but was really glad once I got around to it. Although I'm pretty sure I won't be shelling out 500 dabs just to play it. Maybe they'll suck it up and shunt a copy across to PlayStation? I'd gladly drop 50 notes on it, if even as a thank you for the first one...

[@blueboozle774]

I’m sorry for your loss, I know how hard it is to lose a love one, hang in there friend

[@Name_Lessness]

I fell in love with Ninja Theory when they made Heavenly Sword. Would be cool to see them return to that type of game.

[@Mrtwistedblack]

Heavenly Sword is lost in Sony licensing, so likely we’ll never see another. Pretty sure that’s how Hellblade was born, it’s a play on words Heavenly Sword in reverse. Heaven / Hell, Sword / Blade.

[@aries4378]

I'll be happy if Ninja Theory doesn't get shut down. This game is on Game Pass which means it's not going to sell as many units as it would've if it wasn't on Game Pass. And we all know what happens to Xbox studios that don't move units.

[@flyingplantwhale545]

Heavenly sword was a game you could actually play. This is 90% walking in a straight line

[@Digital-_-Spirit]

Maybe with Xbox new stance on multi platform development, Ninja Theory could strike a deal with PlayStation to make a Heavenly Sword sequel or remake 🤩

[@josephsaga]

​@@aries4378but what if microsoft shut them down?

[@soulstech414]

This is literally the only game on Xbox that I wish I could play. But 50 bucks for a 5 hour game is kinda wild to me

[@LetsLvl_Up]

Free on Game Pass

[@soulstech414]

@LetsLvl_Up yes I know it's on gamepass but the price of the game is still advertised as 50 bucks.. I'm just saying it's really disappointing that ninjatheory released this game after 5 years of development..it seems like they only worried about the graphics.. I watched an entire playthrough and from what I could see, it seems like the same game as the first. Only difference is, you only first one person at a time, the puzzles are waay easier (and the puzzles in the first game were pretty easy), the story is worse, and there's alot more walking.. it's just disappointing...

[@DMONEYINC]

God these graphics look great tho.

[@AaronHatcher]

I don't care that it took so long and that it's short. I love this game and series.

[@AngelFall9]

Im about 2 hours in and its amazing. Not sure why so many reviews are negative. I will concede its about 70% and experience and 30% a game hut holy crap is it good. Id love to have more of these on Game Pass. We have enough Live Service and 70-120hr games. Its worth the $15 to play.

[@JayUchiha17]

What are you playing it on? What's your display resolution and fps? Don't be shy on specifics

[@johnm7491]

This requires a very deep sale before even thinking of buying it, seriously 5 hours?

[@notafanboy355]

Almost like games are repayable and you can take time

[@johnm7491]

@@notafanboy355 Ah, but that begs the question, what replay value does this game really have?

[@notafanboy355]

@johnm7491 sone since theres collectibles and a new game plus kinda And for most its not 5 hours unless you are rushing not taking anything in

[@nickseitzer6795]

I just started, just made it into “the cave,” and I’ve never been experienced anything even close to this. The overall experience feels perfect to me. Last night I took my headphones off last night and said… “Wow…” out loud… alone!

[@floridakid7975]

If you play this one first, then sunuas sacrifice will be a treat. In my opinion this one should’ve came first due to it’s more mild fighting and gameplay.

[@whalisten]

Same I actually screamed once of how cathartic the game is lol

[@84coti]

I fought the draugrs yesterday and omg was it a short but intense moment. The music either the low tones growls of men is insane. The drums hits you hard and I felt epic with every ennemy I killed. I’ll probably finish the game in 10 hour since I want to find every little secret in it but the atmosphere is on another level. I get it’s not for everyone but it is truly a game most players should try. Yeah, it’s pricey for a 6 hour game, but in a world where people buy fifa for a 100$ every year for the exact same game, it’s not that bad

[@whalisten]

@@84coti yes this one of the most immersive game there is out there. I played this game twice mainly to re-fight these bad boys, listening to that badass song

[@floridakid7975]

@@84coti first is way better, enemies more terrifying and custom combat options

[@MikeFrench101]

I love the first one and I'm really enjoying this new one. Story driven games aren't for everyone but it's right up my alley

[@senpaikuso8342]

I love how you’re literally scraping the barrel on positives for this game

[@JustDatBoi]

Glad someone noticed lol The fanboys will buy it and the devs won’t learn a thing.

[@metalklown]

Honestly I love it so far. If you were expecting more of the first, you'll be satisfied. If you were wanting something it was never supposed to be, don't bother.

[@tatokainjones9029]

I mean 5hrs is insane for $50

[@jaahman0098]

I don’t see why anyone would not want everything from the first game to be expanded upon especially the gameplay

[@realdrizzy2k]

lol people wanting more than the first game with better graphics isn't bad thing

[@122josh]

I think it's fair for people to expect some innovation and evolution of gameplay systems for a sequel tbh not saying you can't enjoy this game for what it is to each there own but all the best sequels build upon the foundations laid by it's predecessor and expand on them from what I've watched theres not much of that in Hellblade 2 apart from the visuals which are admittedly incredible.

[@that80ssongyoulove84]

@@tatokainjones9029so is 5, 6, or 7 hours? You guys need to make up your minds.

[@JakeSalvador96]

For never having played the first, I jumped into this one for the graphical fidelity because that’s something I also thoroughly enjoy about video games. I’ve had a great time so far playing this one and will have to go back to the first.

[@jorgealbertohernandezgutie7696]

The first one is nowhere near in graphics, if that's all you're getting then I don't recommend the first one, if on the other hand you've liked the atmosphere, setting, overall experience or the story, then you'll love the first

[@wigletron2846]

The first game is better in every way besides the graphics

[@mihmo2663]

After playing BG3, My Time at Portia, and Fallout 4 back to back, a 5-7 hour game doesn't sound too bad to me. Not EVERY SINGLE game needs to be a sweeping epic.

[@RappyFX]

Same boat here with BG3, Elden Ring, and Witcher 3. I just started Ghost of Tsushima recently too and I'm already feeling a bit burned out by the Ubisoft-open-world formula. I feel like I'm losing my mind reading so many people say that they want a 20-30 hour game from a $50-60 price tag. So much of those 20-30 hour games are literally just spent traversing the open world. gathering for things to upgrade x or y. Feels like so many people are brainrotten by play time instead of the memorability or the quality of the experience.

[@archaicrapture]

Which one is it? Games are long people complain. Developers find a sweet spot, gamers complain. Which one is it?

[@kevinwho.]

⁠​⁠​⁠​⁠​⁠@@RappyFXOr maybe, just maybe, we want more long, high quality games like BG3, Elden Ring and Witcher 3?

[@myles5388]

I agree but you can’t then make said 5-6 hour game full 60 bucks, that’s insane to me. But I do agree I’m burnt out on open world I really want more last of us linear style games, I haven’t got through GOW ragnorok yet cuz they’ve made that too open world-ish compared to the first. Not every game needs to be crammed into open world formula!!

[@brad7957]

as someone who doesn't have as much time for gaming these days, i agree. Some games really drag out - i don't want to play the same game for months.

[@duuuuude1526]

"you don't have too much to lose" except my money 😅

[@TmoneyOGGamer]

I’ll wait for a deep discount, it looks like that kind of game

[@alvybar2990]

If these insane graphics mean we’re gonna have to wait 7 years for 7 fucking hours of gameplay, no thanks.

[@Pacifica_909]

Don't forget to tip

[@anglebars6084]

Pandemic

[@sircosmo21]

Didn't start development till 2019-2020 don't open your mouth if you are gonna spread bs do your research

[@loganwhite6173]

people complaining about the price of a game on gamepass is wild

[@TGC88]

Thanks for this honest review. I know a lot of people don’t prefer these types of games and I don’t blame them, is their opinion. But I’m just glad we finally got a true next gen looking game. To be honest, it’s actually one of the reasons why I own an Xbox series x. To play a true next gen game, not a game that looks cross gen or last gen, because we’ve been getting a lot of games, even next gen games, that doesn’t look next gen at all. Ninja theory did a fantastic job creating a beautiful looking game, finally using unreal engine 5 to its fullest. I like the first hellblade game, still haven’t beat the game yet, but it’s incredible for what it was. So I think I’m gonna buy the sequel and the first game, because I played the first game through game pass and I really want to finish the first game before preparing myself for the sequel. ☺️

[@siamijw]

I don’t which I like more: the straight up gameplay… or the first impressions of the latest games releasing.

[@jayeckard5339]

I think I liked it more than you did but your complaints are valid. Especially the parry window being shorter. Drove me insane the whole way through.

[@zackdolfan9397]

The graphics are insane. If only all games could look like this lol. The graphics blow me away

[@faresfares-ultra]

Artstyle >realistic graphic but i agree this game looks beautiful

[@anthonya04]

All 30 frames of it in the five hour long linear walking game !

[@kraviznina]

@@anthonya04 maybe on console. On PC smooth 60+ on ultra settings.

[@wardengentles53]

You're easy to please. To each their own.

[@GravitasZero]

People will see a pretty game and spend the AAA standard 80 euros on it, not carring if the story is garbage, there being little to no gameplay, imbalances left and right, etc.... This is why AAA industry still sells, because people will always be distracted da shinies lmao

[@Manuel-rl6um]

For me it improves the original in every way: - Less frustrating puzzles, and more varied and interesting - Less ambiguous story, you are in a world with other people, makes you feel more like you are not in a videogame and more in a real world - Combat hasn't changed much but the sensation when fighting is so much better. There is more varied enemies. And the choreography is incredible - More variety of scenarios - technically, it's a masterpiece, audio, graphic, art, music, animations, it's an absolute masterpiece I'm 4-5h in, so not sure how it ends but so far it has been worth every minute, every puzzle, every combat. I've felt anger, excitment, fear, ans much more in such a short time. I would say to people, ignore reviews and try for yourself.

[@styls2009]

You're right, there's nothing like forming your own opinion about the game without being influenced by anyone else.

[@QuasidodoJr]

I just finished it and I agree on every point. Since I took out time to search for every collectible and just walked my way through enjoying the scenery and atmosphere without running constantly, it took me about 10 hours. I think if you’re finishing in the 5 - 6 hour range, you’re just hard hoofing it running forward the whole game and trying to blaze through it as fast as you can.

[@carterdahl9654]

I don't think the first games story was ambiguous. If you pay attention, it's really easy to understand what's happening

[@Agent_Cobalt]

You can’t tell people to try it for themselves when it’s $50 for 5-6 hours. That’s too short to justifying trying on a whim. Anyone not on the fence already bought it. Anyone not on the fence is not going to drop that amount of money just to find out

[@casualt2212]

@@Agent_Cobalt Would agree in so much as buying the game outright. Many will pick this up with no additional cost on gamepass however so there is no extra cost to jump in that what they already pay.

[@Scarecr0wn]

I get why some people would not like this. But I am just in awe. The craft, the atmosphere, the shere insanity of some moments, acting, same as with first game the only word I can think of is art. And I wish there was more.

[@coltsfan264]

I don’t know why this game has so much hate, it’s about the experience it gives you, not every game should be a get good grind fest , just play and enjoy

[@redragon9588]

yeah definitely this is masterpiece, people salty for no reason

[@WhatisReal11]

I wish the developed some type of platforming gameplay … so much more they could flesh out. Gameplay is like handicap level. I don’t get it.

[@redragon9588]

@@WhatisReal11 wtf hellblade isn't lara croft

[@believenothingandsurvive]

@@redragon9588ur right it’s a boring walking sim for people who can’t use a controller without having an aneurysm

[@billclay2701]

Made for digital foundry and heavy story-driven game players.

[@ie6248]

This may be the best graphics I seen on a game... ps5 needs to step it up

[@BTMaverick707]

Exactly what I wanted... which is more HellBlade. It's not for everyone but this one is definitely for me

[@majorshepard2]

Glad for you. Enjoy it

[@BTMaverick707]

@majorshepard2 Ty you sir! I don't see any point of yucking someone else's yum especially in subjective art.

[@kylemckinney_22]

Exactly, if you're not interested in the core story/material then don't even bother playing

[@majorshepard2]

@@kylemckinney_22 but even if you should not bother. It Ford not make any of their points invalid. Just enjoy what you want to enjoy

[@smurfie8412]

Because your skills are not good

[@Grizzlyatomz]

30 fps is ridiculous in 2024

[@tobitroyer9429]

😅yes. I am glad that I rage quit the first game.

[@VillaAdaPosseFan]

The boss combats in the original were super badass

[@vulkrim5274]

I m happy with the puzzles and the collectables but other than the rush on the second half of the story i really love the game. Another 2 hours would be great but yeah . I cant wait for another game

[@explosivediarrhea4671]

It took 7 years for this sequel so if there’s gonna be another one it’s gonna be close to a decade for another one again

[@barretoleandroariel]

They used to say it was going to be bigger, open world, like Horizon for the Xbox 😅

[@MrBALAKUMARA]

This is what happens when you think visuals are the parameter for the leap of a game rather than the whole game itself.

[@Darkdiver28]

if you play it you’ll realize its very well made both visually and narrative

[@kiringudmundson5396]

The game is great

[@princephillip1481]

​@Darkdiver28 Gameplay will always be King when it comes gaming...even Sony knows this...now.

[@MrBALAKUMARA]

@@Darkdiver28 I played it, sorry but first one hour is horrible, pressing the W button continuously for like 45 mins doesn't feel great at all. And don't say the visuals are great. It's not about visuals. After witcher 3, except for ghost of tsushima and horizon forbidden west every game out there feels empty, Avatar, lord of fallen,fort solis, immortals of aveum... Now this game too...smh

[@anglebars6084]

@@MrBALAKUMARAhorizon forbidden west is awful what are you talking about?

[@motchness]

Looks like a lot of people didn’t play the first one.

[@BlakeCDMedia]

I expect it's worth the $10 for a month of game pass on PC. Which is how I'm getting it.

[@ksks6802]

Ya, but your supporting aids...of course that's your choice, but you aren't supporting the devs at all with gamepass

[@mikrobyo1790]

got it for 2$

[@lukastemberger]

So you'll subscribe for a month to play it, then unsubscribe?

[@ezcargo]

@@lukastembergerI do that with most new games on sub services, however, I do usually continue paying for gamepass cuz there’s always a game me and my buddies can load up together

[@BobBoberts-n3e]

@@lukastembergerI’m guessing they are like me and already have gamepass and will whether or not they play this particular game

[@ThaneR0248]

Masterpiece. Only wish this was longer. This series has been epic. I only wish there was more of this. They definitely dumbed this game down a lot from the first one. First was better. But overall, this is series is a must play.

[@jackpooley4860]

Just finished it, visually insane and much better than the first. Everything else is worse and it seems like it was sacrificed for the visuals. Environments, gameplay, combat, story, walking sim. Not a bad game but definitely a let down considering the time between the first. Also it feels wayyyyyyy more like a prequel than a sequel. You could play this without playing the first and you would only miss about 1 minute of dialogue in the beginning scene. 1 step forawrd 2 steps back is the best way i would describe this game.

[@lokeleenP]

Already finished the game. I want every kind of game for gamers to play. This one falls strictly into narrative game unfolding in 6 to 7 hours not our general action rpg. Its all audio/visual uplifting the experience. I liked the game but story ends kinda abruptly

[@DoomSDar1on]

I love narrative driven game like this, but unfortunately the story wasn't worth waiting 7 years, nor the gameplay. Sad

[@Kaas465]

​@mostafasham1524 shows you haven't played it, hater.

[@DoomSDar1on]

@@Kaas465 Selling a lot of insecurity here, didn't say the game was trash,was a bit disappointed that's all, plus the game is on 'Xbox Game Pass'

[@yanayana5408]

Let's face it, the game is mid. Fit perfectly for Game Pass.

[@styls2009]

82 on metacritic is mid ? I'm afraid your comment is much worse.

[@yanayana5408]

@@styls2009 Bro think those 100s Xbox centric reviewer are legits. 😂

[@styls2009]

@@yanayana5408 88% positive reviews on Steam.

[@theakspud]

The first transition from cinematic to gameplay was so clean. Awesome game so far

[@gameranxTV]

some cool stuff in it for sure

[@reddickfloboy]

I just finished the game tonight. Amazing graphics, amazing atmosphere with one of my favorite video game characters, I didn't mind it being a short game but the ending left me wanting more but not in a good way too. From the trailer I thought we would get more of a struggle between light and darkness within her, (something we all deal with). I enjoyed her journey still, just wish we got more of the ending throughout the game.

[@ratedRblazin420]

Thank god I have game pass, there's NO way I would pay $50 for 5-6 hours of gameplay

[@jedmunoz4255]

Yessir the review I’ve been waiting for. Thanks Gameranx!

[@gameranxTV]

thanks for stopping by!

[@Nicholasmcmath-cr1xl]

Same me too

[@aaronthomas6183]

⁠@@gameranxTVthanks for dropping by our TL’s

[@chuck176]

@@gameranxTVyour a great reviewer Jake!!!! Can’t wait to play this in gamepass!!!

[@clivematthews95]

It’s not a review

[@harty3113]

I keep seeing reviews say combat felt worse. Am i the only one who thinks this game has the most rewarding feeling parry system? It feels so good when you get that blue light

[@Kaas465]

That's the Xbox tax for you

[@Manuel-rl6um]

The combat hasn't changed much mechanically but it feels so much better. The sensations you feel when fighting have nothing to do with the previous one.

[@davesharma25]

Most rewarding? Sheeesh try playing Sekiro bro

[@Kaas465]

@@davesharma25 useless comment.

[@davesharma25]

@@Kaas465 lmaooo how is my comment useless

[@Nick-4K]

Graphics look amazing tho. This isnt even PC capture either. Thats impressive.

[@KingJohnMichael]

Eh I have seen better games on playstation 5 and even playstation 4

[@SnackAttack77]

@@KingJohnMichael give us some titles!

[@sam1_2_1]

​@@KingJohnMichael Such as?

[@Whoareyousir]

@@KingJohnMichaelbrother I have both and there is not a single game on either that looks this good 😂😂😂

[@brendyn__2244]

@@KingJohnMichaelnothing on ps4 looks this good nice try play station suck up 😭

[@clifman303]

I frankly liked the 6 hour asmr simulator

[@colinnixon7739]

Its 7 to 10 hours. Burning 70 bucks in an afternoon. Nice.

[@MrLilchoppy]

I heard that they didn't start development until 2020. So that trailer in 2019 was just a concept if thats the case. Im about 2 hours in, playing with head phones on in the dark. Its very immersive. Game doesn't feel slow or dragged out. Feels like the game is taking me along for a ride and im here for it.

[@Wonderbrut]

Bros about to beat the game by midnight 😭

[@mtnman8783]

Nice tech demo..maybe when they release it on PS5 they can give us the whole game

[@gameranxTV]

👍

[@i_shubham_mehula7638]

the best thing about hellblade games is that there are no tutorials

[@coltsfan264]

I LOVE the games don’t get me wrong but you don’t really need a tutorial when there is only 4 action buttons, pretty easy to figure out lol

[@jorgealbertohernandezgutie7696]

I mean, there are tutorials, they're just not forceful or anything, like when they give you a mechanic and the voices tell you to use it, there's no prompt or anything but the tutorial is there in a way

[@ninja.saywhat]

no huds too! i mean you can turn them off in a lot of games nowadays but this was the default for this game. plus the added bars actually made it more cinematic experience and fully immersed you. you gotta have a potato rig and often plays fornite or other "trendy" games to not appreciate hellblade 2.

[@danieltravelstead]

I loved that. Made it feel really immersive for me

[@Jdl343]

I am roughly three hours in, and I love it. Visually it is stunning on my Xbox. I downloaded it from gamepass and I am blown away by it. I have played long games such as Skyrim, The Witcher 3 and RDR 2. And I don't mind a short game. I played the original hellblade on PS4 and actually preferred it to The GOW reboot

[@DurgisFlak]

You can feel Tameem's absence with this one...

[@khs511]

Been playing it and its amazing. Definitely not for everyone but definitely the most next gen game than anything out there now. Jawdropping production quality its mindboggling.

[@MrFox101]

Seriously? It doesn't look that good at all.

[@khs511]

@@MrFox101 lol. And that confirms you haven't played it or seen it beyond a KZbin stream. Because you genuinely cannot downplay it. Nothing comes close.

[@praisetheoak]

@@khs511 Idk all you do is walk and +3hr of cutscenes. The game is very limited so in such a static world/game it is not that impressive to be honest.

[@MrFox101]

@khs511 I played it today on my series x. The black letterbox destroys any visual appeal. Imo the first game looks and plays better. I played Jedi Survivor last month on gamepass and that looked better. Before that I played Dragons Dogma 2 and that looked better. Before that BG3 and that looked better.

[@praisetheoak]

​@@MrFox101 Dragon's Dogma 2 appears more impressive to me, achieving high visual fidelity in an open world rich with interactions and granularity between characters, enemies, and physics. Moreover, the global illumination looks superb.

[@ani-musiclovers]

Nah, 6 or 7 years for 5 hours is not worth it. Not even close. And another studio bites the dust.

[@vedantpatel1745]

I think people who are into game development and narratives will like and appreciate this game for what it is and other people will just see this as a "walking simulator" which is fine because i too was once like that but then i grew up and got a bit into game development and started to appreciate the art, designing, sound, visuals, character movements, environmental details and many other things. Story is kinda short and picks up the pace in the end very quickly but it is still a very good narrative, story based experience. First one was definitely better in every aspect except graphics but this one still holds the grip and interest to those who enjoyed first one.

[@YoungBlaze]

7 years to make a 6 hour game ? Yay DLC baby

[@notafanboy355]

4 years working in a pandemic What will you do in life oh yeah nothing you waste of life

[@SuperMario1990]

I don’t know how I feel about 1V1 combat because the first game was only challenging in combat because you were basically being jumped. Especially toward the end. But if they shortened the parry window, then maybe that’s their way of balancing out the challenge🤷🏾‍♂️ Either way I’ll be checking this game out tomorrow when I get off work😎

[@icravedeath.1200]

​@user-rt7eq7cw8ogameplay was never a focus

[@electus1]

​@user-rt7eq7cw8o It is better. More visceral, gorgeous aninimation, etc. It's a way better version of the first one in every way. So if someone liked the first one. they should love the second one.

[@electus1]

@user-rt7eq7cw8o Who said I was arguing? You have your opinion, I have mine. Move on.

[@colegarber7910]

@user-rt7eq7cw8oThey did give you reasons. They said it's more visceral and has gorgeous animations. I personally think it's better too for similar reasons. I replayed the first just before starting the second and the combat feels way better. I think the second game does a much better job at making combat feel scrappy and desperate, whereas the first game had a somewhat arcade-y feel at times that conflicts a bit with the tone of the game (in my view). I say all of that without meaning to say that you cant have your preferences tho. At the end of the day its just opinions and preferences

[@colegarber7910]

@user-rt7eq7cw8o You didn't say gameplay, you said combat. Thats what the other person responded to and thats also what I responded to. You can feel as though I don't 'game' if you want. I know myself and the stuff I play. I've beaten both dooms, every from software game, every resident evil game, hollow knight, played most total wars; I've played various genres like rpg, fps, rts, jrp, etc etc etc. I'm not a newbie to gaming by any means and I've been playing for well over a decade. Senua 1 and 2 are easy games, also I don't think the focus is on the swordplay and the combos. This isnt god of war and it has no intention of being god of war. If you come into the game expecting that then you'll of course be disappointed. Also yeah, I think the 1vs1 fights are a better way of doing things than the group fights. It reinforces a really scrappy, chaotic, and desperate combat. I think that that vibe would be mostly lost by gamifying the combat system as you seem to be wanting to do - in my view. We can just agree to disagree too. I've said this before. Games, especially like these, are forms of art and not everyone will connect in the same way. If you don't connect with it thats ok. I'm certain theres something you like that I don't connect with too. That doesn't make your thing any less cool or meaningful to you

[@OwnYourBaldSpot]

I’ve lived with psychosis for 11 years and loved both games. There are a bunch of PlayStation fanboys who, if you click on their profiles, either didn’t play or played for 10 minutes, spamming one star reviews, and even so the game has 4.3 stars despite that, it’s a solid sequel. All the people talking shit about length as if the first wasn’t short and narrative focused too. Play the games for yourself. Who tf expects a 40 hour game as a sequel to a 7-8 hour story focused game about mental health? It’s free on game pass, chill.

[@zerenadli]

It's gamer like you are the reason studios get shut down. Accepting mediocrity just because it's cheaper on gamepass.

[@-piolho-]

​@@zerenadli Where is the mediocrity? Game having a short length is a bad thing now?

[@zerenadli]

@@-piolho- it's mediocre because of the short length coupled with terrible combat mechanics and uninspired puzzles. Exactly ad MrMattyPlays described.

[@notafanboy355]

​@@zerenadlianother pony yawn

[@JustDatBoi]

@@notafanboy355 try to not be a fegboy

[@M3atheadGaming]

The first game was an incredible journey, I`m so pumped to play this one in the weekend. I hope this does well with sales, and developers get encouraged to think outside the box instead of us getting the same live-service open world bloat-fest thats the norm in recent years.

[@toolshedvideo]

They already tried a live service game for Xbox. It totally bombed to the point where most people don't remember it. Bleeding Edge anyone? I think MS is going to shut them down honestly.

[@Chilltechvibes]

I came for the straight up gameplay.... i stayed for the first impressions

[@ericjames4034]

My only issue was with how easy they made the puzzles. Take them out if people are that dumb that everything needs to be highlighted red

[@adriancooke7795]

I loved the bit where Senua shouted 'It's Hellblading time!'

[@atron62]

Was able to squeeze in a couple hours today, so far so good in my opinion

[@UwUOwl]

So you half beat it lol

[@redragon9588]

@@UwUOwl 1/3 not 1/2

[@mniakan754]

I absolutely loved the first game for it's story, music and audio design and even though the gameplay loop was very simple due to them mixing in elements that showcased Senua's mental state and how she sees the world it was quite enjoyable and this new game seems to be more of that so I'm in

[@likebubba]

Gameranx gets gamers.

[@EldenBeastmen]

FLT already made me save 50 bucks! Good Game, but I after Elden Ring I just can't justify paying full price for such a short game

[@mattc9209]

This video is almost as long as the game.

[@larrytaylor2692]

Can’t believe it took them so long to make a 6 hour game

[@Skully_the_Skull]

Oh, are you a game developer?

[@flyingplantwhale545]

6 hour games are fine. What’s not fine is spending 90% of it walking in a straight line, listening to exposition and cutscenes. This is barely a f*cking game.

[@silentscorn5072]

It took so long because it was polished in my opinion. Game was perfect 5 hours journey. Unlocking other narrators is a neat feature that allowed me to replay the game while collecting eveything. Ending was cut short yes but I hope they have a DLC planned to resolve that.

[@MathiasBjrnskov]

I will probably start just this to look at the visuauls, and go “wow”, and then never touch it again

[@exmatilda982]

Man I just finished the game and I feel exactly the same you do Jake. The first game was one of my all time favorites and I was super hyped for the release of the sequel. I think they delivered in every aspect with this sequel in terms of music,Level design, Action, sound design and everything else except the ending of the story. I felt a little empty when the credits rolled and IMO they could've done more with that. But other than that this game was awesome and I recommend everyone to experience this game after playing the first one. Ninja Theory is one of my favorite studios and I hope people support their games so that Microsoft don't cut them like they did with Tango and Arcane Austin. Tnx for giving your first impression on the latest games releasing. I've been waiting for this game so long and it was almost worth it.😅💙

[@samhall2130]

looks intense

[@andrewgreaves56]

Nice to hear your thoughts but it’s incredible to me that you can talk about the game for 12 minutes and not mention the incredible audio.

[@LartinBeats-rg6pf]

He did mention the 3d audio he say it was still as good as the first one

[@DreamsOfLegend]

Walking simulator with good graphics is exactly what this game is

[@Kristofdotjpg]

i've been waiting for this game a long time and it released on my birthday :)

[@Ves_-Xx]

That voice at the end gave me the heebie-jeebies a little

[@TCommando]

Naah.. its cheap as fcuk. It could have been better.

[@d3n4c3]

I'm more hooked on this game already than most other games released in the last two years. This game doesn't feel like work, it feels just right, the graphics are incredible, and the audio + visual immersion is bonkers. A breath of fresh air by today's standards.

[@yummyteeth7021]

Thanks Jake, you boys have literally saved me thousands of dollars over the years. These reviews are life savers man

[@keelyourshelf]

ouchh lol

[@feenix1033]

Just finished the game. It may as well just be an extended tech demo for UE5. It's mostly just a walking sim with repetitive and boring puzzles. You need to mod the game to remove the ridiculously large letterbox borders. You need something like a 4070 or better to get a solid 60FPS. Combat is somewhat engaging at first but it quickly becomes repetitive. The game has no ending, it just stops. The credits roll and you go "is that it?"

[@VIVI-jb2px]

Do i have to know hellblade senua's sacrifice to understand hellblade 2?

[@notafanboy355]

Not entirely but really recommended to

[@ironiccookies2320]

I'm assuming many people who are upset wanted a 20+ hour game with side quests and stuff like that. This game and the first game are very cinematic driven. I think $50 is fine for a 6-8 hour game

[@bobbobson9952]

It's more like 5 hours and no that price is insane.

[@GrowishGambino]

Your standards are real low lmao 50$ for 6 hours is crazy smh

[@jdphillips7539]

If it had the same emotional power I wouldn’t mind so much. The first one will always hold a high place in my heart. Quality over length is preferred. But this one feels hollow when all is said and done.

[@ironiccookies2320]

@@GrowishGambino The first game was short but cost $30. Seeing as now Ninja Theory developed this sequel under Microsoft, $50 for a same length game isn't shocking. It's Microsoft who determines the price, not Ninja Theory.

[@bobbobson9952]

@@ironiccookies2320 30 bucks was already pushing it pretty hard for a very shallow 5-7 hour game with very little replay value. Being acquired by MS doesn't suddenly normalize a 20 dollar price hike either. In fact it should warrant a lower cost of entry since the backing isn't solely on the studio anymore.