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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

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

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 is praised for its profound exploration of mental illness, trauma, and love, seamlessly integrating Norse mythology into Senua's emotional journey. Critics highlight its vivid portrayal of psychosis and the immersive narrative that enhances gameplay. However, some note issues with narrative clarity and character development, arguing that it can feel muddled and overly explanatory at times. Despite these critiques, the consensus is that the game offers a unique, impactful experience that resonates deeply with players, making it a standout in storytelling and emotional engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

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 predominantly positive feedback from critics, who commend its deep exploration of themes such as mental illness, trauma, and love. Many reviewers, including IGN and GameSpot, highlight the game's ability to weave Norse mythology into Senua's personal journey, creating a rich narrative tapestry that resonates emotionally with players. Critics like Game Informer and Polygon appreciate the game's portrayal of psychosis, emphasizing how it provides a vivid and honest representation of Senua's internal struggles. The narrative's immersive quality is also praised, with reviewers from Hardcore Gamer and New Game Network noting how the story is intricately tied to gameplay mechanics, enhancing the overall experience. However, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the narrative structure. Metro GameCentral, for instance, criticized the story for being muddled and lacking a clear focus, suggesting that Senua's character development only becomes apparent late in the game. Similarly, DarkStation mentioned that the narrative could be overly explanatory, which detracts from its emotional impact. Other reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Destructoid, also echoed concerns about the depth of character development and the potential for the plot to feel generic at times, particularly when fantasy elements overshadow the initial intrigue. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice offers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that successfully engages players with its exploration of mental health and personal struggle. Despite some criticisms regarding narrative clarity and character development, the majority of reviewers, including those from CGMagazine and VideoGamer, agree that the game provides a unique and immersive experience that resonates deeply with its audience. The combination of Senua's emotional journey and the rich backdrop of mythology creates a powerful storytelling experience that many players find impactful and memorable.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice impresses with its deep integration of Senua's psychological struggles into gameplay, earning praise for immersive puzzles and fluid combat. However, critics slam it for repetitiveness and simplicity, labeling the experience as linear and at times tedious. While some elements shine, the lack of depth hampers enjoyment, leaving a mixed overall reception: a gripping narrative experience that may frustrate those craving more dynamic gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice has garnered some praise for its unique integration of Senua's psychological struggles into the mechanics. Critics like Eurogamer Italy commend the innovative gameplay that immerses players in Senua's mental state, highlighting how puzzles and exploration reflect her experiences. Additionally, several reviewers, including Ragequit.gr and Wccftech, appreciate the combat mechanics, describing them as fluid and engaging, with a satisfying level of intensity. The puzzles, while sometimes frustrating, are noted for their clever design and ability to create a unique gameplay experience, as pointed out by critics like TheSixthAxis and Game Informer. However, the gameplay has also faced significant criticism, particularly regarding its repetitiveness and lack of depth. Many reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and GameOver.gr, highlight the minimalistic approach to gameplay, which often feels linear and can become tedious as players grasp the mechanics. Combat is frequently described as simplistic and uninspired, with critics like Destructoid and Nintendo Insider noting that it detracts from the overall experience. The puzzles, while innovative, are often deemed dull and repetitive, leading to a disjointed pacing that can frustrate players, as mentioned by Metro GameCentral and GameSpot. Overall, the consensus among critics is a mixed bag, with a clear divide between appreciation for the game's narrative and psychological elements and frustration with its gameplay mechanics. While some, like DualShockers and Forbes, find the blend of combat and puzzle-solving to be engaging and well-integrated, many others express disappointment in the repetitiveness and lack of variety. Critics like BaziCenter and CGMagazine encapsulate this sentiment, noting that while the gameplay has its moments of brilliance, it ultimately suffers from a lack of depth and progression. Thus, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice stands as a compelling narrative experience, albeit one that may not satisfy players seeking a more dynamic and varied gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice wows critics with its breathtaking visuals and emotional depth, thanks to advanced motion capture and photorealistic graphics. Reviewers rave about the game's stunning environments and compelling narrative that masterfully blends live-action cutscenes with gameplay. However, the Nintendo Switch port suffers from significantly lower graphics quality, with issues like blurry textures and a dynamic resolution dropping to 400p. Despite these setbacks, the overall consensus remains positive, praising the game for its artistic direction and ability to tackle complex themes of mental illness. Whether on high-performance platforms or the Switch, Hellblade delivers a visually captivating experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

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, with many praising the game's stunning visuals and artistic direction. Reviewers such as Easy Allies and GameSpot highlighted the game's breathtaking environments and character animations, noting the effective use of motion capture technology that enhances the emotional depth of Senua's character. Critics from outlets like Digital Trends and IGN Spain emphasized the photorealistic quality of the visuals, which contribute to the game's immersive atmosphere and storytelling. The blend of live-action cutscenes with in-game graphics, as noted by GameSpot, creates a surreal experience that effectively conveys the haunting world Senua inhabits, further enhancing the overall narrative. However, some critics pointed out notable drawbacks, particularly concerning the performance of the Nintendo Switch port. Nintendo Enthusiast and Vandal mentioned that the graphics on the Switch are significantly lower than on other platforms, with issues such as a dynamic resolution dropping to as low as 400p in handheld mode. 3DJuegos echoed this sentiment, stating that the port appears somewhat blurry due to optimization compromises. Additionally, GRYOnline.pl remarked on the presence of low-resolution textures that detract from the overall visual experience, indicating that while the visuals remain enjoyable, they do not match the quality found on more powerful platforms like the PS4 or PC. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice boasts impressive graphics and visual design, particularly on high-performance platforms. While the Switch version presents challenges in terms of visual fidelity, the core experience remains visually captivating, as noted by NintendoWorldReport and Starbit. Critics commend the game for its ability to convey complex themes of mental illness through its visual storytelling, with many praising the hauntingly beautiful environments and character designs. The game’s artistic direction, particularly its use of light and shadow to enhance the atmosphere, has been highlighted by multiple reviewers, solidifying Hellblade's reputation as a visually stunning title that resonates deeply with players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice boasts groundbreaking sound design and music, praised for its binaural 3D audio that immerses players in Senua's psychological struggle. Critics highlight how the voices enhance gameplay and atmosphere, with a strong recommendation for headphone use to fully experience the haunting audio. Despite minor issues like voice mixing and some less impactful background music, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive. This innovative sound design is deemed a defining feature, establishing the game as a benchmark in the industry.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

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 been overwhelmingly praised by critics, with many highlighting its integral role in enhancing the narrative and emotional depth of the game. The use of binaural 3D audio is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, creating an immersive experience that allows players to feel Senua's psychological turmoil. Critics like EGM and GameSpot emphasize how the voices in Senua's head not only serve as a narrative device but also provide gameplay hints, contributing to the overall atmosphere. The haunting ambient sounds, coupled with a compelling musical score, have been noted by multiple reviewers, including PC Gamer and Nintendo Life, as essential elements that create a deeply unsettling and immersive environment. The recommendation to use headphones is a common theme, as it significantly enhances the auditory experience, allowing players to fully appreciate the intricate sound design. Despite the widespread acclaim, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design. Digital Trends mentioned issues with voice mixing and audio sync, which could detract from the otherwise immersive experience. IGN Spain noted that while the sound design is strong, the background music lacks the same impact, suggesting that it may not be as memorable as the game's auditory elements. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Telegraph, cautioned that the overwhelming nature of the sound design could be triggering for certain players, indicating that the intensity of the auditory experience might not be suitable for everyone. These criticisms, while valid, do not overshadow the overall positive reception of the sound design. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice represent a masterful achievement in the gaming industry. The majority of reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and GameCritics, have lauded the immersive qualities of the binaural audio and the effective use of voices, which significantly contribute to the game's emotional and narrative depth. While there are minor criticisms regarding certain aspects of the audio experience, the overwhelming sentiment is that the sound design is a defining feature of the game, elevating it to a masterpiece status. The combination of innovative audio technology and compelling storytelling has left a lasting impression on players and critics alike, solidifying Hellblade’s place as a benchmark for sound design in video games.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is critically acclaimed, with Melina Juergens' portrayal of Senua hailed as masterful and award-worthy, significantly enhancing the game’s emotional depth and immersion. While some minor flaws, like awkward facial animations and a few less impactful performances, were noted, the overall consensus is that the voice acting is a standout achievement that elevates the storytelling and connects players to Senua's internal struggles, marking it as a defining feature of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

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 been overwhelmingly praised by critics, who highlight it as a cornerstone of the game's emotional and immersive experience. Reviewers such as We Got This Covered and Twinfinite emphasize how the strong performances bring Senua's character to life, allowing players to connect with her internal struggles on a personal level. Melina Juergens, in particular, has been lauded for her portrayal of Senua, with many critics like Critical Hit and Everyeye.it describing her performance as award-winning and masterful. The depth and authenticity she brings to the character are noted as essential in conveying Senua's complex mental state, with GameSpot and PC Gamer also acknowledging how the inner voices enhance the narrative and emotional depth of the game. Despite the widespread acclaim, a few critics have pointed out minor shortcomings in the voice acting. DarkStation mentions that while the performances are mostly convincing, some facial animations appear awkward, which could detract from the overall immersion. Additionally, while the majority of the reviews focus on Juergens' standout performance, there are mentions of the amateur nature of some performances, suggesting that not every voice actor matched the high standard set by Juergens. Critics like Gamer.nl and Impulsegamer acknowledge that while the voice acting is compelling, the execution of certain elements may not be flawless, indicating that there are areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is nothing short of a masterpiece, significantly contributing to the game's impact and emotional resonance. The performances, particularly by Melina Juergens, are frequently described as intense, authentic, and deeply moving, with many reviewers asserting that they elevate the storytelling experience to new heights. Critics such as Giant Bomb and New Game Network reiterate that the voice acting not only enhances the portrayal of Senua's struggles but also immerses players in her world, making it a defining feature of the game. The combination of strong performances and effective direction has led to a shared belief that the voice acting is a vital element of Hellblade, solidifying its place as a remarkable achievement in the realm of video games.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice" impresses with solid technical performance on PS4, especially on Pro, but bugs and glitches mar the experience across all platforms. Critics praise the Nintendo Switch for maintaining a stable 30fps despite hardware limits, while Xbox One faces significant gameplay disruptions due to bugs. Overall, the game shines in immersion but needs optimization to fully realize its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Positive Technical Performance Analysis: Across various platforms, "Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice" has generally received praise for its technical performance. The PlayStation 4 version stands out, with many critics like IGN and Gameblog.fr highlighting its smooth performance, particularly on the PS4 Pro, which offers enhanced resolution and frame rates. Critics such as New Game Network and Impulsegamer have noted the game's seamless experience on PS4, with minimal loading screens contributing to immersion. The Nintendo Switch version, while facing some limitations, has been commended by critics like Nintendo Life and God is a Geek for maintaining a stable 30 frames per second, showcasing the developers' effective optimization for the platform. The Xbox One X version has also been positively reviewed, with critics like DarkZero and XboxAddict noting its stability and graphical options that allow for a tailored experience. Negative Technical Performance Analysis: Despite the positive feedback, several critics have pointed out notable technical issues across platforms. On Xbox One, XBLA Fans reported numerous bugs and glitches that disrupt gameplay, while Jeuxvideo.com mentioned occasional stability issues. The PS4 version has also faced criticism, with reviewers like Washington Post and GamesBeat noting instances of Senua getting stuck on invisible walls and occasional graphical glitches that can detract from the experience. Critics like PlaySense and DualShockers echoed similar sentiments, highlighting frame rate dips and game-breaking bugs that require restarts. The Nintendo Switch version, while generally stable, has been criticized for inconsistent frame rates during intense segments, as noted by Impulsegamer and Switch Player, which can affect the overall experience. Overall Consensus of Critics: The overall consensus among critics is that while "Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice" delivers a compelling and immersive experience across all platforms, technical performance issues persist that can disrupt gameplay. On the PS4, the game is often praised for its polish, but issues such as frame rate dips and bugs remain a concern for many, as noted by critics like Vandal and Forbes. The Xbox One version is recognized for its stability, yet still suffers from bugs as indicated by multiple reviewers. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch version is lauded for its performance given the hardware limitations, though it is not without its hiccups. Ultimately, while the game showcases impressive technical achievements, the presence of bugs and performance inconsistencies across platforms suggests that further optimization could enhance the overall experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice has emotional depth and a gripping narrative that some players might want to revisit, bolstered by collectible lore stones. However, critics overwhelmingly point out its limited replay value due to a short, linear campaign (7-10 hours), repetitive puzzles and combat, and a lack of traditional collectibles. Ultimately, it's seen as a powerful one-time experience rather than a game designed for multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

90%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice reveal a nuanced perspective, with some critics acknowledging the game's emotional depth and narrative engagement as compelling reasons for revisiting it. Critics such as Games.cz and Hobby Consolas highlight the game's impactful storytelling, suggesting that players may feel inclined to return to experience the rich narrative again. Additionally, the presence of collectible lore stones, as noted by GameCrate and TheSixthAxis, provides some incentive for exploration and may enhance replayability for completionists. Furthermore, PlayGround.ru suggests that the game leaves players wanting more, hinting at a desire to return to its world after the initial playthrough. However, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards the limitations of replay value. Many reviewers, including Video Chums, Digital Trends, and Hardcore Gamer, emphasize the game's linear structure and short campaign length—typically around 7 to 10 hours—as significant factors that deter multiple playthroughs. The repetitive nature of the puzzles and combat, as pointed out by critics like Starbit and Windows Central, further diminishes the appeal of revisiting the game. Moreover, the lack of traditional collectibles or chapter selection, noted by PlayStation LifeStyle and Vandal, reinforces the notion that the game is not designed for extensive replayability. Overall, while there are elements that may encourage some players to revisit Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, such as its emotional narrative and collectible lore stones, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is one of limited replay value. The game's linear design, coupled with its brief campaign and repetitive gameplay mechanics, suggests that it is primarily crafted as a singular, impactful experience rather than one meant for multiple playthroughs. Critics like IGN Spain and GameSpot encapsulate this sentiment by stating that while the game is engaging, it lacks sufficient incentives for players to return after completing the story.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

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 predominantly positive, with many critics praising its ambitious approach to storytelling and its profound exploration of mental health themes. Critics like Giant Bomb and Digital Trends highlight the game as a groundbreaking narrative experience that successfully combines strong storytelling with impressive visuals and immersive sound design. Jeuxvideo.com and DarkStation echo this sentiment, noting the game's emotional depth and artistic achievements, which create a powerful and immersive experience. The audio-visual elements are frequently cited as standout features, with many reviewers emphasizing that the game's artistic merit sets it apart in the gaming landscape, making it a significant title for players who appreciate interactive storytelling. However, despite the acclaim for its narrative and technical aspects, several critics point out notable gameplay shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and Everyeye.it mention issues such as dull puzzles and repetitive gameplay mechanics, which can lead to a mixed reception. Critics like Nintendo Insider and Vandal also express that while the game excels in storytelling and atmosphere, it falls short in gameplay mechanics, which may frustrate some players. This divide highlights a common critique that while the narrative and emotional impact are strong, the gameplay may not be as engaging or well-developed. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a remarkable title that excels in its artistic presentation and emotional storytelling, with many considering it a must-play experience. Critics like DualShockers and Worth Playing emphasize its importance as a narrative-driven game that tackles serious themes with sensitivity. While there are valid criticisms regarding gameplay mechanics and some technical issues, the majority of reviewers agree that the game's strengths far outweigh its flaws, making it a significant contribution to the medium and a worthwhile experience for those interested in its themes.

TL;DR

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is hailed as a groundbreaking narrative experience, skillfully blending storytelling, stunning visuals, and immersive sound design to explore mental health themes. Critics commend its emotional depth and artistic merit, positioning it as a must-play for fans of interactive storytelling. However, gameplay issues like dull puzzles and repetitive mechanics draw criticism, potentially frustrating some players. Despite these shortcomings, the game's strengths in narrative and atmosphere significantly overshadow its flaws, solidifying its place as a noteworthy title in gaming.

MONSTER

Reviews

202 reviews found

100

Ragequit.gr

Aug 23, 2017

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

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is hailed as a benchmark in narrative-driven gaming, combining art and technology to deliver a profound and immersive experience.

Read full review

100

DualShockers

PlayStation 4

Aug 14, 2017

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

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is an incredible and emotionally affecting game that masterfully combines audio-visual design with a powerful narrative about mental illness. It is a masterpiece worth experiencing.

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100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 4

Aug 10, 2017

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

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a masterfully executed piece of art that transcends traditional gaming experiences, leaving a lasting emotional impact on players.

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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

Gamer.no

PlayStation 4

Aug 15, 2017

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

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a unique and intense experience that masterfully blends psychological horror with action, offering a journey that is both beautiful and harrowing.

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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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XboxAddict

Xbox One

Apr 20, 2018

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

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a groundbreaking title that masterfully combines storytelling, visuals, and audio, making it a must-play experience.

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GamesBeat

PlayStation 4

Aug 7, 2017

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

Despite some technical flaws and repetitive elements, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a powerful and emotionally engaging experience that successfully explores themes of mental illness, supported by strong character development and impressive visuals.

PlayGround.ru

Aug 24, 2017

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

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is described as a masterpiece that transcends traditional gaming experiences, offering a profound exploration of mental illness and emotional depth.