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MONSTER

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Item: Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2017

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Drama, Single Player

AvailableAug 7, 2017

PlatformPlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperNinja Theory

Overview

From the makers of Heavenly Sword, Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, and DmC: Devil May Cry, comes a warrior’s brutal journey into myth and madness. Set in the Viking age, a broken Celtic warrior embarks on a haunting vision quest into Viking Hell to fight for the soul of her dead lover. Created in collaboration with neuroscientists and people who experience psychosis, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice will pull you deep into Senua’s mind.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice impresses with its powerful narrative that intertwines Norse mythology and mental health struggles, earning widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and immersive storytelling. Critics praise its portrayal of Senua's journey, though some note issues with overly explanatory dialogue and pacing. Overall, it stands out as a poignant exploration of mental illness, making it a significant title in narrative-driven gaming despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice has garnered significant praise from various critics, who highlight its deeply engaging narrative and the emotional depth it brings to the gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as Xbox Tavern and GameSpew, commend the game for its compelling portrayal of Senua's journey, emphasizing the integration of Norse mythology with her personal struggles with psychosis. Critics like IGN and Game Informer appreciate how the narrative explores complex themes of mental health, grief, and loss, providing a vivid and honest representation of Senua's internal battles. The immersive storytelling, coupled with nuanced voice acting and a strong script, has resonated with players, making it a standout title in the realm of narrative-driven games. However, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the storytelling. DarkStation notes that while the narrative addresses mental health credibly, it can be overly explanatory, which detracts from the emotional impact. Similarly, Telegraph mentions that the game sometimes veers too much into the supernatural, potentially losing sight of its initial premise. Others, like Hardcore Gamer, express concerns about the over-indulgence in cutscenes, suggesting that they may disrupt the flow of the experience. These critiques indicate that while the story is generally well-received, there are aspects that could benefit from refinement to enhance its overall impact. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority recognizing Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice as a powerful narrative experience that effectively tackles difficult themes. Critics such as CGMagazine and Game Rant highlight the game's ability to evoke empathy and challenge players' perceptions of reality, making it not just a game but a poignant exploration of mental illness. Despite some criticisms regarding pacing and exposition, the emotional weight and depth of Senua's journey resonate strongly with players, establishing Hellblade as a significant contribution to the narrative landscape of video games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice delivers a gripping narrative intertwined with engaging combat and puzzles that reflect Senua's mental struggles, earning praise for its tactical swordplay and immersive world. However, critics highlight issues like repetitive gameplay, simplistic puzzles, and frustrating mechanics that detract from the experience. While the game is a worthwhile exploration of mental health themes, it may leave players desiring more depth and variety in its mechanics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice has received commendations from several critics for its unique integration of narrative and mechanics. Reviewers such as Shacknews and TrueAchievements praised the combat system for its visceral and engaging nature, highlighting the tactical depth and fluidity that make the swordplay satisfying. Critics like Game Debate noted that the combat beautifully complements the game's themes of mental struggle, while others like Nintendo Insider and IGN emphasized the uniqueness of the experience, with puzzles that are intricately tied to Senua's psychological state. The exploration aspect also garnered positive remarks, with TheXboxHub noting the richness of the world and its intriguing elements that enhance the gameplay experience. However, a significant portion of the reviews pointed out various shortcomings in the gameplay. Many critics, including NintendoWorldReport and We Got This Covered, expressed concerns about the repetitiveness of both the puzzles and combat, suggesting that these elements can detract from the overall enjoyment. Critics like Critical Hit and Game Informer highlighted the frustrating mechanics, including a lack of tutorials and unclear consequences for failure, which may alienate some players. Furthermore, as noted by Hardcore Gamer and Polygon, the simplistic nature of the puzzles and the linearity of the gameplay contributed to a sense of mediocrity, making it less memorable compared to other titles in the genre. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice offers a compelling narrative experience enhanced by its gameplay mechanics, it struggles with repetitiveness and a lack of depth in certain areas. Reviewers like DarkStation and COGconnected acknowledged the strong thematic ties between gameplay and Senua's mental challenges, yet many felt that the gameplay could benefit from greater variety and complexity. The balance of praise and criticism suggests that while the game is a unique experience worth exploring, it may not fully satisfy players seeking deeper gameplay mechanics or variety.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice dazzles with stunning visuals and emotional depth, earning rave reviews for its artistic design and immersive environments powered by Unreal Engine 4. Critics celebrate its emotional storytelling and intricate graphics, but some note performance issues on the Nintendo Switch and occasional graphical glitches on PS4. Overall, it's hailed as a significant achievement in visual storytelling, proving that impressive results can come from a modest budget.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice have garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the game for its stunning visuals and artistic design, particularly highlighting the use of Unreal Engine 4. Critics like Xbox Tavern and GameSpew noted the photo-realism and intricate details that enhance the storytelling, creating immersive environments inspired by Norse and Celtic mythology. The emotional depth conveyed through performance capture technology, especially in the character of Senua, was also a focal point, with Nintendo Insider and Pure Nintendo emphasizing the impressive character expressions that resonate with players. Environments were frequently described as beautifully crafted, with GameCrate and GamePro Germany noting how the lack of a traditional HUD allows players to fully appreciate the visual experience. However, not all reviews were without criticism. Several critics who played the game on the Nintendo Switch, such as Vandal and Impulsegamer, pointed out significant compromises in graphics and frame rate, particularly in handheld mode where dynamic resolution could drop as low as 400p. While Nintendo Enthusiast acknowledged that the game looks impressive for a handheld port, the visuals did not hold up as well on larger screens. Additionally, some PS4 critics like Washington Post mentioned occasional graphical issues, such as pop-in graphics and awkward character animations, which detracted from the overall experience. These technical shortcomings were noted as potential detractors from what is otherwise a visually striking game. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority recognizing Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice as a visually stunning title that effectively utilizes its graphics to enhance the narrative and emotional experience. Reviewers like IGN and Forbes highlighted the game's ability to convey dark themes through its artistic design, while others like Easy Allies and GamingTrend praised the atmospheric lighting and diverse environments. Despite some criticisms regarding technical performance on certain platforms, the game's visual design is celebrated as a significant achievement, showcasing what can be accomplished even with a modest budget and team, as noted by Shacknews. The collective sentiment suggests that Hellblade stands out as a remarkable example of visual storytelling in video games.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is lauded for its groundbreaking sound design, using binaural audio to intensify Senua's psychosis and immersive gameplay. Critics praise its haunting voices, which guide the player and enhance tension, though some note issues like overshadowed dialogue and potential annoyance from constant auditory presence. Despite minor flaws, the audio is recognized as a key element that deepens the psychological horror experience, solidifying the game's emotional impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many emphasizing the game's exceptional audio quality as a key component of its immersive experience. Critics like Impulsegamer and Forbes highlighted the innovative use of binaural sound, which creates a three-dimensional auditory landscape that enhances the portrayal of Senua's psychosis. The voices in Senua's head, described as haunting and integral to the gameplay, serve not only as narrative devices but also provide hints and guidance during combat, as noted by COGconnected and DarkStation. The overall sound design has been praised for its ability to create a tense atmosphere, with many reviewers recommending the use of headphones to fully appreciate the intricate audio details, as emphasized by Slant Magazine and We Got This Covered. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks within the sound design. Impulsegamer mentioned that the voices can occasionally overshadow important dialogue, which may detract from the narrative clarity. Additionally, while the voices are generally well-received, some players, as noted by Video Chums, may find them annoying due to their constant presence. Critics like GameCritics also mentioned that some audio logs felt unnecessary, suggesting that not every auditory element contributed positively to the overall experience. These critiques indicate that while the sound design is largely effective, there are moments where it may overwhelm or distract from other aspects of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice excels in its sound design and music, with the majority praising its ability to enhance the psychological horror experience. Reviewers from various platforms, including Game Rant and Xbox Tavern, agree that the audio elements significantly contribute to the game's atmosphere and emotional impact. The immersive binaural audio, combined with strong voice performances, particularly by Melina Juergens, creates a compelling auditory experience that resonates with players. While there are minor criticisms regarding dialogue clarity and the potential annoyance of constant voices, the positive feedback overwhelmingly highlights the audio as a standout feature that elevates the game's storytelling and emotional depth.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice boasts some of the best voice acting in video game history, with Melina Juergens' masterful portrayal of Senua praised for its emotional depth and immersive quality. Critics unanimously highlight how her performance and the voices of Senua's psychosis enhance the game's narrative and atmosphere. While a few minor critiques regarding facial animations exist, the overwhelming consensus celebrates the voice acting as a defining feature, solidifying the game's impact and legacy as a landmark title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the performances as nothing short of a masterpiece. Melina Juergens, in particular, has been highlighted for her exceptional portrayal of Senua, with critics from CGMagazine, Critical Hit, and PlayStation Universe lauding her ability to convey a complex range of emotions that resonate deeply with players. The immersive quality of the voice acting is also frequently mentioned, with Forbes and Game Rant noting how the voices of Senua's psychosis contribute significantly to the atmosphere and emotional weight of the narrative. Critics like IGN and Shacknews emphasized the integral role that voice design plays in enhancing the storytelling, creating a haunting yet enlightening experience that draws players into Senua's troubled psyche. While the majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few critics pointed out minor shortcomings. DarkStation noted that some facial animations felt awkward, suggesting that while the voice acting was convincing, the overall presentation could have benefited from more polished visual elements. Despite these critiques, the consensus remains that the voice acting, particularly Juergens' performance, is a standout feature of the game. The emotional depth conveyed through her voice and the various characters' contributions were seen as crucial to the game's impact, as highlighted by critics from GameCrate and GamingTrend. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice features some of the best voice acting in video game history, with Melina Juergens' performance being frequently cited as the pinnacle of this achievement. Critics from multiple platforms, including Xbox Tavern and GameCritics, echoed the sentiment that the voice acting not only enhances the narrative but also elevates the player's emotional engagement with Senua's journey. Despite some minor critiques regarding facial animations, the overwhelming majority of reviews celebrate the voice acting as a defining element of the game's success, solidifying its place as a landmark title in the medium.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice impresses with strong technical performance across platforms, especially on PS4 Pro and Xbox One X, but also suffers from notable issues. PS4 experiences minor glitches, Switch maintains stable performance amid hardware limits, and Xbox One faces bugs and framerate drops. Overall, while the game delivers an engaging experience, technical hiccups vary by platform, leading to a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

Positive Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms The technical performance of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice has generally been well-received across various platforms. On the PlayStation 4, multiple critics, including IGN and Hobby Consolas, praised the game's smooth performance, particularly on the PS4 Pro, which enhances resolution and frame rates, contributing to an immersive experience. Forbes highlighted the polished nature of the game, emphasizing its stable performance that allows players to fully engage with the narrative. On the Nintendo Switch, reviews from Nintendo Enthusiast and Nintendo Insider noted that the game runs admirably well, showcasing its technical strengths despite the platform's limitations, maintaining a stable 30 frames per second. Meanwhile, on Xbox One, DarkZero commended the game for its well-optimized experience, particularly on the Xbox One X, which offers various visual options without sacrificing detail. Negative Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms Despite the overall positive reception, several critics pointed out notable technical issues across platforms. On the PS4, reviewers like DarkStation and Destructoid reported instances of Senua getting stuck on invisible walls and camera problems, which can disrupt gameplay. Washington Post mentioned occasional graphical issues and potential game-breaking errors, indicating that not all experiences are seamless. On the Nintendo Switch, while the performance was generally stable, critics such as Switch Player and Nintendo Life acknowledged minor hiccups, including frame rate drops during complex segments and texture pop-ins. On Xbox One, XBLA Fans raised concerns about numerous technical issues, including bugs and glitches that can disrupt immersion, while Windows Central noted minor slowdowns and texture pop-in issues that, although not severe, still detracted from the experience. Overall Consensus of Critics Across Platforms The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice excels in technical performance across all platforms, there are varying degrees of issues that can affect the player experience. The PS4 version is generally stable but marred by minor technical hiccups, as noted by We Got This Covered and PlayStation LifeStyle. The Nintendo Switch version impresses with its performance given the hardware limitations, but critics like Vandal and Nintendo Life highlighted some graphical sacrifices. The Xbox One version, while praised for its optimization, still faces criticism for bugs and framerate drops, as pointed out by Xbox Tavern and TrueAchievements. Ultimately, while the game shines in many aspects, the technical performance is a mixed bag, with each platform presenting its unique strengths and weaknesses.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice boasts a gripping narrative and immersive themes that invite players to revisit it, especially for lore enthusiasts. However, its short 7-9 hour playtime, linear design, and repetitive gameplay severely limit replay value. Critics largely agree it's a one-and-done experience unless you're deeply invested in its story.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of various critics on the replay value of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice highlight some positive aspects that may entice players to revisit the game. Many reviewers, such as Trusted Reviews and Shacknews, emphasize the game's rich narrative and engaging story, which can encourage players to experience it again. The presence of collectible points that unveil Norse mythology, as noted by TheSixthAxis, adds an extra layer of depth that might appeal to completionists. Additionally, the impactful nature of the game's themes and storytelling, mentioned by critics like Hobby Consolas and Game Rant, suggests that players may find value in revisiting the game for a deeper appreciation of its narrative. However, the consensus among critics points to several limitations that significantly hinder the game's replay value. Many reviewers, including Critical Hit and Video Chums, highlight the game's short length—typically around 7 to 9 hours—as a crucial factor that restricts opportunities for multiple playthroughs. The linear structure and lack of traditional collectibles or side quests, as noted by PlayStation Universe and Nintendo Insider, further contribute to this sentiment. Critics like Impulsegamer and Starbit also mention the repetitive nature of puzzles and combat, which can lead to a lack of incentive for players to return after their initial experience. Overall, the critics' consensus indicates that while Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice offers a compelling narrative and engaging themes that may encourage some players to revisit it, its short length and linear gameplay significantly limit its replay value. Most reviewers agree that the game is best experienced once, with little motivation to replay it unless players are particularly drawn to its story or wish to explore its lore more deeply. Critics like Nintendo Life and ZTGD encapsulate this sentiment, noting that while the game is Worth Playing for its narrative, its structure does not lend itself well to multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its artistic merit and emotional depth. Reviewers like Game Debate highlight the game's status as an "art form" with a "complex, layered narrative," emphasizing its ability to evoke emotional responses over traditional gameplay mechanics. Critics from various platforms, including IGN and Forbes, commend the game for its stunning visuals and immersive storytelling. The game is often described as a groundbreaking title that tackles mental health issues with sensitivity and respect, making it a significant contribution to the gaming landscape. Nintendo Enthusiast and Nintendo Life both laud the Switch version as a remarkable achievement, reinforcing the game's accessibility and quality across platforms. However, while the narrative and emotional engagement are frequently celebrated, several critics point out notable flaws in gameplay mechanics and technical performance. For instance, Hardcore Gamer mentions "frustrating gameplay mechanics," while Game Informer echoes this sentiment, stating that the game falters in traditional gaming aspects despite its captivating narrative. Critics like Destructoid and DarkStation also note issues with combat mechanics and technical problems, suggesting that these shortcomings can detract from the overall experience. The game’s linearity and repetitiveness in gameplay are recurring themes in reviews, with some critics feeling that these elements hinder its potential impact. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a remarkable and essential experience for players. Many reviewers, including TheSixthAxis and PlayStation LifeStyle, describe it as a "complete and compelling experience" that effectively raises awareness of mental health issues. The game is often referred to as a contemporary classic, with phrases like "must-play" and "unique and unsettling journey" being common in critiques. The balance of storytelling and emotional depth, combined with its technical achievements, positions Hellblade as a landmark title in the gaming industry, as noted by critics like We Got This Covered and Xbox Tavern. Overall, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is celebrated for its artistic vision and narrative strength, making it a standout title that resonates with players and critics alike.

TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is hailed as a groundbreaking title that masterfully blends art and emotional storytelling while tackling mental health issues with sensitivity. Critics praise its stunning visuals and layered narrative, dubbing it a "must-play" and a contemporary classic. However, gameplay mechanics and technical performance draw criticism, with some reviewers pointing out frustrating combat and linearity that may detract from the experience. Despite these flaws, the consensus is clear: it's a remarkable journey that resonates deeply, solidifying its status as a landmark in gaming.

MONSTER

Reviews

200 reviews found

100

XBLA Fans

Xbox One

May 10, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite technical flaws, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a must-play for its powerful narrative and emotional depth, making it a unique experience in gaming.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox One

May 10, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a must buy for all gamers, especially those who love character, story, and adventure. The performance, design, and journey are all amazing and the gameplay is hugely enjoyable as well, with a little bit of a challenge thrown in for good measure.

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100

TrueAchievements

Xbox One

Apr 18, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is an amazing game with remarkable storytelling and production value on par with AAA experiences

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GameCritics

Aug 14, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is described as one of the most important games of the year, offering a bold and immersive portrayal of mental illness that challenges traditional gaming narratives.

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NZGamer

PlayStation 4

Aug 24, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is emotionally brutal and may not be for everyone, but it celebrates the courage needed to face psychosis.

Hobby Consolas

Nintendo Switch

Apr 14, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a visually spectacular game on the Nintendo Switch, with a different adventure gameplay that may be challenging but adds to its appeal. It is described as an adventure that leaves a lasting impression.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Apr 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice on Switch is a remarkable achievement, delivering a complete and immersive experience that stands alongside other 'miracle' ports. It's a must-play for its profound narrative and technical execution.

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Trusted Reviews

PlayStation 4

Aug 8, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hellblade is a triumph in storytelling, visuals, and gameplay, offering a unique blend of action and psychological depth that sets it apart as Ninja Theory's best work.

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DarkZero

Xbox One

Apr 18, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is praised for its compelling narrative, stunning visuals, and emotional depth, making it a standout experience despite some gameplay mechanics being less engaging.

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IGN

PlayStation 4

Aug 8, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is hailed as a masterclass in atmosphere and storytelling, with a unique blend of mechanics and narrative that creates an unforgettable experience.

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