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Hellblade II's Potential Is Sky-High as a First-Party AAA Xbox Title

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice was the achievement of a AAA-like experience from Ninja Theory. Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is poised to far surpass it.

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escapistmagazine.com
gangsta_red1626d ago (Edited 1626d ago )

You mean this game has the potential to be a triple A franchise? Who would have thought.

Personally, I didn't like the first one, the presentation and graphics were stunning but the gameplay was boring.

Let's hope there's a lot more to do than just looking for glyphs and such

darthv721626d ago

With a bigger budget, they can make the game they wanted to make initially.

bouzebbal1626d ago

Sky high I won't call it that.. Apart from dmc for me none of their games was a massive hit.. Graphics they are good at, I'm sure this game will deliver on this.

rdgneoz31625d ago

A bigger budget affects game length, how big and detailed the world is, graphics, audio, and fps. The basics like movement, combat, and such shouldn't really change really as they're the foundation for the game. No matter the budget, you need a good foundation to get people playing your game. Outer Worlds is short, but has a good foundation which is why people like it. Same with many indie games that are short but fun, or old school graphics with addicting gameplay.

Bronxs151625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

I really enjoyed enslaved from them. More than the dmc game. Seeing titles like bayonetta and vanquish get remakes. I’d love to see a enslaved remake and a heavenly sword while their at it lol

Wasabi1626d ago

@Gangsta

I think that Ninja Theory will position this game as Xbox's rival to Sony's God of War reboot.

Angry main protagonist - Check
Norse Mythology - Check
Intricate next gen graphics engine - Check
Atreus replaced by voices in head - Check
Troll Type Demon seen coming out of rock - Check
Red Striped Body paint - Check

Goddess of War.

Wasabi1626d ago (Edited 1626d ago )

@Gangsta

Interestingly The article is written by Nate Nadja (Shinobi on Twitter and Resetera), owner of the website Shinobi Speaks and communications manager for Wushu Studios. Wushu is a liverpool based studio made up of ex devs that previously worked on DriveClub and Motorstorm on the PlayStation platform as well as some Codemasters titles. They are rumored to be developing a title for PS5.

thatguyhayat1626d ago

Wasabi

Thats not even close. Im guessing you didnt play the first one

1626d ago
Wasabi1626d ago

As user Spicyram clearly does not know how to use the REPLY button, I'd like to share the message I just received via PM so that we may discuss his comment further

***"You think Hellblade is Microsoft's answer to God of war? Wow, you finally get one decent exclusive, now you're saying this Microsoft's answer to God of war? There is no way in shit Hellblade is comparable to God of war's quality. Sorry but that's just a fact. How many Game of the year awards did Hellblade get? Average score? Ninja theory is a good studio, but you fanatics are hyping this game WAY too much already, based off ONE trailer . Sorry, dream on You delusional xbox fanchild"***

Wasabi1625d ago

@thatguy

I played the first one, if you disagree with my pointing out the similarities between GoW and how Hellblade II MAY be positioned with a bigger budget and larger ambition thats fine, it's just my personal opinion based on my thoughts - I don't expect everyone to agree with me, if we all agreed on everything the world would be a pretty boring place, I'm not sure how my comment is "not even close" as neither of us know how final game will turn out.

@Echo

Good point mate, my comment is not about rivalry between two plastic boxes it's more a commentary on the direction NT may take the series with a bigger team and better resourcing.

rainslacker1625d ago

I'm OK with that so long as they keep the themes of the character and game in tact. The first one was special because of what they actually achieved with trying to represent mental illness. Turning that into an experience, instead of just a character with mental illness, is not something that's easy to achieve.

If it's just a hack and slash with a shallow story, then I may still like it as it's own thing, but I feel it would lose that something special which really set it apart on release.

Wasabi1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

@rainslacker

***"I'm OK with that so long as they keep the themes of the character and game in tact. The first one was special because of what they actually achieved with trying to represent mental illness. Turning that into an experience, instead of just a character with mental illness, is not something that's easy to achieve.

If it's just a hack and slash with a shallow story, then I may still like it as it's own thing, but I feel it would lose that something special which really set it apart on release."***

That is exactly how I feel rain, from the point of view of NT and MS, I'm sure they will be looking at the success of GoW and hearing the criticism regarding high quality first party experiences on the Xbox platform and it would surprise me if similarities have not already been drawn.

The mythology, character and setting area all a natural fit for a GoW style reboot. I agree that the challenge would be bringing this to life without compromising what made the first game special, but having played the original I think that capturing the same feeling as the first game in a sequel would be quite a challenge anyway, that story has already been told. In my personal opinion, a more ambitious game that includes elements from the original but with a bigger scope and more intricate combat systems is the obvious way to go,

CaptainHenry9161625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

"I think that Ninja Theory will position this game as Xbox's rival to Sony's God of War reboot."

I stopped reading right there 😂😁

sinspirit1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

@Wasabi

Always trying to compare and not distinguish games apart from each other is why all these gaming related sites are ruined. Just like the Haze vs Halo thing. Except Hellblade is a great game. Imagine if people still compared KillZone to Halo. How much of a waste of time that would be for two great games that are merely just part of the same genre. I wouldn't compare Forza Horizon to Gran Turismo Sport. Would I? But, they're similar right? Till you actually play them, which is the point of gaming.

Trust me. The only historical evidence that would have Hellblade with a higher budget than God of War is from Microsoft's insane focus on marketing campaigns and combining the marketing costs into the games budget(which is normal, but remember when they advertised they spent $1 billion on games back in the day and half of it was just for advertisement).

You can have any opinion you want. But, it's different to make real world theories and think we can't argue why that wouldn't be the case. Just because Microsoft owns XBox doesn't magically make their budgets far higher than Sony or Nintendo. Otherwise, they'd have been on top of the industry over a decade ago. The budgets for their games have been no different than competitors. Only seemingly more wasteful based on the review scores and development time spent. I really do hope MS has had an epiphany on game development and does push great games that are made the way the studios want to make them. We can only wait and see. And, I intend to wait till they release. No trailers, demos, or promises will sell me.

TK-661625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

First off, this idea that Hellblade is an answer to God of War 4 is dumb. Secondly, Hellblade released before God of War 4 did, so this idea that God of War 4 did thsse things before Hellblade isnt accurate.

Following your logic we'd have to call God of War Sonys answer to lollipop chainsaw because of the decapitated talking head hanging from the waist.

Wasabi1625d ago

@sinspirit

***"Always trying to compare and not distinguish games apart from each other is why all these gaming related sites are ruined"***

Comparisons are always going to be drawn between similar games, in this case over the shoulder third person story driven action/adventure games. The similarities I highlighted in my initial post represent obvious conclusions that can be drawn within the setting, character, enemies, aesthetic of the games - I don't care if you agree - that's your problem not mine.

***"I wouldn't compare Forza Horizon to Gran Turismo Sport"***

No, but you would compare Forza Motorsport to Gran Turismo as digital foundry have done in the past,

https://www.youtube.com/wat...

why you would select a less than obvious example is beyond me, we are not comparing HB1 to GoW my comments refer specifically to HB2, comparisons that the author of the article agrees with considering the new scope of backing made possible by Microsoft;

"With the full support of Microsoft’s financial and logistical resources now, Ninja Theory is free to go to town, and that presents a tantalizing prospect. What can a team that delivered Hellblade do with a much higher budget? My immediate presumption would be an expansion of scope. Wider environments, a full team of combat designers to broaden gameplay systems, a larger narrative with multiple areas in-game, and a lengthier campaign are just the tip of the iceberg of what’s possible"

***"he only historical evidence that would have Hellblade with a higher budget than God of War is from Microsoft's insane focus on marketing campaigns and combining the marketing costs into the games budget(which is normal, but remember when they advertised they spent $1 billion on games back in the day and half of it was just for advertisement)"***

I mean, this just comes off as you having an issue with Microsoft and Xbox in general so other than to say this is not the topic of discussion I won't be addressing this further.

***"You can have any opinion you want. But, it's different to make real world theories and think we can't argue why that wouldn't be the case"***

Yes I can, I don't care if my opinion offends you or if you or anyone else disagree with what I write. Nothing I have said has been presented as fact, nor could anything I have written be viewed as inflammatory or offensive beyond being hard to swallow for users with delicate sensibilities. No one challenged your ability to debate or disagree, nor have I challenged someone's personal opinion beyond pointing out flaws and inconsistencies in arguments presented. Again, the author of the article agrees with my thoughts on scope and scale for the game as summarized here:

"These are exciting times ahead. Ninja Theory is but one of several first-party Xbox studios known for their narrative prowess. One thing is certain: Microsoft will no doubt aim for Hellblade to become a high caliber story-driven franchise within Xbox Game Studios, and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is one of the first hats thrown into the ring"

***"I really do hope MS has had an epiphany on game development and does push great games that are made the way the studios want to make them. We can only wait and see"***

On this it seems we can agree.

Wasabi1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

@TK-66

***"First off, this idea that Hellblade is an answer to God of War 4 is dumb. Secondly, Hellblade released before God of War 4 did, so this idea that God of War 4 did thsse things before Hellblade isnt accurate"***

No one is comparing the original Hellblade to God of War, the discussion is focussed on the additional scope afforded to NT by becoming part of Xbox Game Studios and receiving financial backing from Microsoft, the author of the article stated exactly the same thing.

The problem seems not to be the comparison drawn by the style of game Hellblade 2 may become with additional funding from Microsoft, but the fact that I had the audacity to point out similarities between the character, setting, enemies and potential style of game and draw a comparison with the holy grail of first party PlayStation games, God of War.

1625d ago
sinspirit1625d ago

@Wasabi

That's not what I said though.The comparison between regular Forza and GT Sport is because they ARE directly comparable. However, Horizon plays entirely different than the regular more sim focused racers. Otherwise, why would we have both Forza and Horizon? Hellblade and God of War don't play the same. They appear the same because of the camera angle and the use of melee combat. God of War is faster paced and more varied in its combat and use of magic and abilities. I am not saying that this means it is better necessarily. I'm not comparing what is and isn't better. I'm saying it IS different by a wide margin. Jumping the gun in comparing the two only fuels an unnecessary argument and just wastes time. Lets compare soccer and football too.

Wasabi1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

@Sinspirit

You're missing my point buddy, I'll try to explain a little better

***"The comparison between regular Forza and GT Sport is because they ARE directly comparable"***

i agree, They are comparable because they are similar in scope and mechanics, many tracks, many cars, high production values set on the same / similar circuits with the same style of racing.

***"However, Horizon plays entirely different than the regular more sim focused racers. Otherwise, why would we have both Forza and Horizon? Hellblade and God of War don't play the same."***

I agree, Forza Horizon (GoW or the other way around) plays differently than GT (Hellblade or the other way around) - This is the same as as the ORIGINAL HELLBLADE vs GoW, both over the shoulder third person action adventure games, both completely different in their scope and although they share similar mechanics and camera perspective they are quite different games. One is a large scale semi open world adventure, the other a more intimate tale set within more linear confines. I agree with this and everything else you mentioned, but are am not talking about the first Hellblade - I am talking about the potential of it's sequel.

Now my point, taking into account my previous comments and the comments of Nate Nadja in the article quoted in my many, many responses to this already.

Considering that many of the constraints and design choices of the original Hellblade were due to limitations of money and resources (we know this because the Studio have said so themselves on numerous occasions the videos can be found on YouTube) and not because of scope of imagination or intention. What kind of game do you think they may possibly come up with when you exponentially increase the size of world, combat systems, character progression, graphical fidelity and production values featured in a game about a reluctant, angry, revenge seeking warrior on a mission of love set within norse mythology featuring large trolls a very prominent evil main protagonist, body paint and a talking severed head attached to the person.

This one

https://www.reddit.com/r/he...

leejohnson2221625d ago

I can't catch my breath, it's a great game hellblade but it hardly has the following or established lore of God of war. Come on now, some one having a few early bucks fizz?

+ Show (13) more repliesLast reply 1625d ago
xX-oldboy-Xx1625d ago

gangsta - I 100% agree, NT has a history of creating new ips - I think they would have better to do that.

Although they may change HB2 gameplay completely and make it more action orientated and deeper puzzles.

The Wood1625d ago

Yep. I definitely see a franchise opportunity. Let's see how the team and ip are managed

gangsta_red1625d ago

They seem to be in good hands with more money to make and do what they want.

Definitely a step up from Kickstarter and doing freelance work to make one game.

Antifan1625d ago

Just a curious thought, but Hellblades genre and gameplay style doesn't fit the taste of Xbox fans. I fear this game will die on Xbox.

gangsta_red1625d ago

It barely was a success for PS fans, but when it went multiplatform it sold a lot better. If it would have stayed on PS it would have died definitely.

No reason to fear anything, i think Xbox fans will enjoy the game.

The Wood1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

Not sure about that red. . Other genres don't really sell well on xbox. Hiding numbers behind game pass has been their way since they chose to stop reporting sales and swerve to other metrics. You should read some of the comments made by xbox fans when hellblade was released. Also money/funding isn't some kinda guarantee. . Just look at the games Microsoft has released this gen. . . I'm sure most of them had more money than the kickstarter project and still ended up being sub par or not as acclaimed as hell blade

gangsta_red1625d ago

@the wood

I think it's about time to let go of the "Xbox fans won't play" card every time a Sony IP or Sony exclusive jumps ship to Xbox. It kind of reeks of desperation and definitely a pinch of the old blood pressure inducing spice.

I keep hearing how Sony fans are concerned with Xbox having more variety in it's games, but when it happens then that concern turns to worry about sales. Too much concern and worrying that it's hard to enjoy just the games that are coming out or releasing soon if you ask me.

I wouldn't stress about it honestly. Ninja Theory is now a first party since they were about to close their doors due thier game not selling well enough only on PlayStation that they had no choice but to make it multiplatform and then be bought out by MS in order to keep food on the table.

The Wood1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

Lol. The numbers don't lie.

You've got one bit the wrong way around. Microsoft does need variety. . They also need support. Microsoft won't put money into sequels that may not sell and its why they were so limited for so long. It's why some feel their sp games output, which don't generate long time revenue, was underwhelming.

These things were uttered long before any game jumped ship so you should revise that argument as there's over a decade of evidence right here on this site as proof.

When people including xbox truth tellers critique Microsoft's crap performance and ways it shouldn't be taken as something that's simple to fix like ticking a box. It's like I hear many of you guys say. .'well you guys said ms didn't have enough studios so you can't say that now' like somehow that's all it takes to compete and their macro problems are fixed. . . . Nah. . . The management of these teams is just as important. Fast car with a weak driver won't usually beat a slower car with a great driver. Xbox has the better hardware yet Sony has the better looking 'games' Microsoft has more money yet Sony deliver more quality games.

Microsoft seem like they're finally moving in the right direction but until quality games are released on a more consistent basis it's all just talk like it has been ALL this generation.

You can't expect people to give credit for Microsoft turning up. They need to produce not posture. When they do, their mindshare and reputation will increase and credit will have to be given. Forget those who will never give credit. . There's plenty of level headed members on here that will give praise when it's due but just know you'll always hear members question and banter on Microsoft until they actually compete. This gen was a flop and many of you guys found any reason to defend, deflect and deny what the opposition were saying. Honestly, look where that got ya. . . .

A father shouldn't take credit for looking after his kids. . . . . . . Because he's meant to do that by default.

CaptainHenry9161625d ago

You're right. The game was cheap as well. I think they sold it for $30 bucks at launch which helped in sales. The sequel will be $60

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SpaceRanger1626d ago

That’s a lot of talk based on one trailer. The devs will obviously put their heart into it like their last game, but that is only a portion of what makes games good. Hopefully they deliver next gen without too much meddling from the higher ups. We all know how that turned out last gen...

darthv721626d ago

Well... there really wasnt much meddling this gen because there werent that many AAA first party releases. If you want to consider the cancelation of scalebound as meddling then so be it but that was more to do with mismanagement of funds and time on the part of PG... not MS meddling with the project.

MS has been pretty much hands off this gen and letting the devs make what they want. What makes you think that will suddenly change next gen?

MrVux0001626d ago (Edited 1626d ago )

Yes lets completely ignore what happened to Lionhead,Press Play,Rare, Ensemble Studios or how they influanced the Xbox giant game series such as Fable,Halo and Gears of War...so much for ''no meddling''.

I was especially pissed of how they treated Ensemle Studios back in 2008, since i was a huge fan of that studio.

And no, Sony is not jail-free from the same things, tho certainly not on the same level as Microsoft .

darthv721626d ago

@Vux... studios closing is not the same as meddling with the games in development. Studios close for various reasons. Plus i seem to recall I said "this gen" which means Rare was able to make the game they wanted to (they pitched way back on the 360 before they were tasked with making Avatars) because Ms took a hands off approach to things this gen.

New people in charge means new changes. Some for the better and some not so much but it has been more hands off than their previous gens.

Obscure_Observer1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

@MrVux000

"And no, Sony is not jail-free from the same things, tho certainly not on the same level as Microsoft ."

Hmm... Correct me if I wrong. Wasn´t Yoshida the one who fired hundreds at Santa Monica and had their open world sci-fi game canceled?

Wasn´t the same Yoshida the one talking big about support VR just a few weeks ago, and yet, retributed both Evolution and Guerrilla Cambridge dedication and passion to VR with an Axe?

Now tell me, which one of their first party studios you think will jump for joy if tasked with a VR game project?

extermin8or1625d ago (Edited 1625d ago )

@obscure_observer it is very well known in the industry that sony is incredibly hands off when it comes to game development. Providing feedback and access to their expert internal coding team to help with technical difficulties or optimisation (ICE) and other feedback when the devs present and update sony on development progress. Santa Monica's game was cancelled because it was seen to not be working at all in terms of story and direction etc. They had restarted it several times and it just wasn't happening. They subsequently laid off staff because it's a business and they were now not in full development. Back to the drawing board, early stages of development where much smaller focused teams are all that is needed. It's common when a game releases for alot of staff to move on- this waa abit like that. They felt guerilla cambridge would be best served working on something else so took them off RIGs and VR? There are plenty of other studios working on those, circumstances change.

London Studios would jump for joy- oh they already did provising "the heist" in VR worlds and more recently the full game Blood and Truth and are working on its sequel atm.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 1625d ago
HighPlayer281625d ago

Wow you Sony fans really live in the past and think Microsoft is the same as they were when they looked at Xbox as nothing but a side project and liability to the company. News flash Sony fans this is not the same Microsoft of old there is a gamer leading the Xbox division now with the full resources at his disposal due to the new Ceo Satya Nadella who supports Phil and believes in Xbox. Sony will have great competition next gen.

derek1625d ago

Blah blah blah. We'll believe it when we see it. The next MS sees gaming as anything more than just a means to achieving something else will be the first.

lifeisgamesok1626d ago (Edited 1626d ago )

Please make the puzzles better. Lining up things in the environment to make a sign and unlock a door was the worst part of the game

MrVux0001626d ago (Edited 1626d ago )

Indeed, tho don't put the expectations too high now, since that is a recipe for a dissapointment (take for example people that are comparing this to God Of War or even stating that this is a game to rival it ...)

Wasabi1626d ago (Edited 1626d ago )

@MrVux

***"take for example people that are comparing this to God Of War or even stating that this is a game to rival it ..."***

There is a very definite difference between voicing an opinion that Ninja Theory's intention may be to "POSITION" its product to rival Sony's God of War and actually "STATING" that Hellblade 2 "IS" a game to rival it, we know nothing about the game other than what has been seen in the trailer, don't put words into my mouth.

In addition, clearly this response would be better positioned as a reply to my comment above, if you'd like to address my personal opinion that's fine - just have the moral courage to mention me by name and post it as a reply to my comment.

MrVux0001626d ago (Edited 1626d ago )

''There is a very definite difference between voicing an opinion that Ninja Theory's intention may be to "POSITION" its product to rival Sony's God of War and actually "STATING" that Hellblade 2 "IS" a game to rival it, we know nothing about the game other than what has been seen in the trailer, don't put words into my mouth.''

First, who is putting words into YOUR mouth? Thinking and stating things as i mentioned above, leads to the same damn thing, potential dissapointment.And the only thing my post was all about keeping the hype levels within reason,especially (as you pointed out) we know almost nothing about the game.

''In addition, clearly this response would be better positioned as a reply to my comment above''

You sure do have a really high opinion of yourself. And no, this was not a response to your comment specifically, since you are certainly not the only one that stated the same things, be it here on N4G or on countleess other sites.

''...just have the moral courage to mention me by name and post it as a reply to my comment.''

First don't lecture about moral courage to people you know absolutely nothing about, Second get of your high horse, unless you want to be regarded as a complete and utter c*nt.

Wasabi1625d ago

@MrVux

If my comment was misdirected and what you wrote was not intended in the manner in which it was taken then I apologise mate, your initial comment featured elements that were almost word for word what I had written and your comment was posted within 10 minutes of mine - I hope you can see why I may have possibly jumped the gun in my response.

I am replying below to your last post, only to highlight my chain of thought in the response.

***"First, who is putting words into YOUR mouth?"***

"stating that this is a game to rival it" - I never stated anything, I offered an opinion on the direction NT may take the game and how it could be "positioned" to achieve this.

***"this was not a response to your comment specifically"***

As I said above, Your comment was time stamped within 10 minutes of my post and featured elements (position to rival vs stated to rival) to me this seemed to indicate a response to my post, if it wasn't intended this way apologies, no hard feelings from me.

***"unless you want to be regarded as a complete and utter c*nt"***

Haha fair one, I can see why you'd say this lol, however as a gamer that plays on all platforms and doesn't feel the need to vilify one platform over another and is quite vocal about calling out inconsistent narratives and false truths of which there seem to be many at the moment - I just automatically assume that this is the way I'm viewed anyway, nothing to lose!

As I said Vux, if I jumped the gun and your comment was taken in a manner that it was not intended please accept my apology mate.

MrVux0001625d ago

Apology accepted, i also apologize for indirectly calling you c*nt.

I sugest we put this matter behind us, since we degraded ourselves enough allready.

CaptainHenry9161625d ago

I never even considered Ninja theory a AAA developer to begin with. They're more like a indie developer.

ReadyPlayer221626d ago

Well Ninja Theory certainly punched above their weight with the first one. A 20 person team making a AAA game that sold millions and won 20+ awards is truly remarkable. With big budget backing and resources, they could truly make a remarkable game.

WeAreLegion1625d ago

They've been making AAA games for a long time now. Heavenly Sword, Enslaved, and DMC were all huge.

ReadyPlayer221625d ago

Yeah, but Hellblade was made with a team of 20 people. Also, regarding Heavenly Sword, Ninja Theory was literally on the verge of bankruptcy so Sony helped them by funding Heavenly Sword. Even still, it didn't perform well.

Show all comments (104)
420°

‘Hellblade 2’ Launches As The 23rd Most-Played Xbox Game, What Does That Mean?

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 launched last week to solid reviews from both fans and players. But its playercount? That's another story.

helicoptergirl3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

That's awful. This combined with the really low Steam numbers paint a disastrous picture imo. Really bad timing too because Tango was closed down for a similar thing. Great reviewed game, and low sales and/or player count. Hi-Fi Rush reviewed a hell of a lot better and it was widely loved by everyone, Hellblade 2 nowhere near that.

I know the rumor is that the studio has their next game already green-lit, but if I worked at Tango, I would be furious. "Why do they survive while we get binned?" I'd be telling myself.

But the suit woman will have you believe "Oh we have different metrics for the success of one studio compared to another studio. We judge each studio and game on their own set criteria" or something like that, I'm paraphrasing here but you get the idea. But no one who works there knows what the hell that even means. I mean the DLC for Redfall was getting worked on days before they even got the news their studio was getting dumped in the trash. So what are these mysterious metrics to let studios survive and others perish? I bet this is all hogwash, I bet MS don't even really know. They just had to make cuts and certain studios just found their way on the chopping block. Someone had to bite the dust, why not you?

Well I bet all this does nothing for the confidence of other employees in other studios. The truth is you have no idea where your career will be in a year from now working at one of their studios that aren't the mega big ones. MS just have too many studios to manage efficiently. "We'll just throw money at them and buy them and worry about the details later on. I mean we can do it, we're Microsoft."

darthv723d ago

...have you seen what the top 10 consists of? Its things like fortnite, roblox, CoD, apex... etc. This being a new game that has a niche appeal is actually surprising to see at 23. Its also the 33rd top paid game on the PC through the MS store.

tay87013d ago

Those are dreadful numbers any way you slice it dude. They hyped this game to hell for the last 4 plus yrs. It was supposed to be xboxs big game this yr. Ninja Theory is probably sweating right now.

Scissorman3d ago

And it's already slipped out of the Top 100 on Steam. Meanwhile a port of the 4-year old Ghost of Tsushima is sitting comfortably at #8.

RiseNShine3d ago

One of the biggest games of the year, a multi million sequel and heavily advertised game, at 23 most played? There's no way to justify those numbers.

darthv723d ago

^^heavily advertised game...?

I mean, I knew the game was coming but outside of a boot screen ad for it, there has been little to no marketing. And yet it still managed 23rd. Make of that what you will.

Elda3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

Here in the East Coast on NY/NJ on cable tv Hellblade 2 has been advertised pretty well. I see the commercials every day at least 3 times a day for the past 3 weeks. It's even advertised as YT commercials.

Chevalier3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

What an idiotic comment. Let me guess the next comment would be GTA V outsold everything so....

Absolutely terrible numbers all round for this game. Ghost of Tsushima at number 8. Good games going to sell regardless of excuses

CobraKai3d ago

Nice try on spinning it but it debuting at 23 isn’t a good thing. It’s one of MS anticipated exclusives.

Cacabunga3d ago

That GP adds no value to a game..
ninja theory got it all wrong, from being sold to MS to only prioritizing graphics

jwillj2k43d ago (Edited 3d ago )

23 is high just shows how shite Xbox lineup is. Game should have come at 70’s.

+ Show (6) more repliesLast reply 3d ago
RpgSama3d ago

What a disaster, 2 failures in a row for Ninja Theory, first Bleeding edge, now Hellblade 2, any way you slice it these are not the numbers the most awaited game of the year for Xbox should show (before Activision purchase), also player numbers is extremely low and even more surprising considering is day 1 on gamepass.

Crows903d ago

If they worked on heavenly sword instead then they would have something worth playing and waiting for... unfortunately that won't happen.

Terry_B3d ago

It means that it will be the..50th? 75th? most played xbox game in June.

anast3d ago

I think it's well below 75th on Steam.

CrimsonWing693d ago

That people played it 🤷‍♂️

Terry_B3d ago

The graphics are great though *fixed it

ChasterMies3d ago

The lowest common denominator isn’t after great games. Look at xDefiant player numbers.

InUrFoxHole2d ago

Not sure how I feel about that game yet.

Scissorman3d ago

If this game cost more and took longer to develop than Hi-Fi Rush, then I would worry if I were Ninja Theory. Projects may have been greenlit, but the increased scrutiny over at MS may very well put them on the chopping block. The incredible irony here is that it was PlayStation players that pushed the original game passed its 1 million copies sold milestone. With that purchasing power cut out, and the Game Pass effect having trained Xbox players to not purchase games, it seems that the sequel may have been set-up for failure.

italiangamer3d ago

And that's exactly what pisses me off about Hellblade 2 not being on PlayStation, Sony promoted the original game and I bought it basically on D1 back in the day because I liked what I saw and ended up really enjoying it!
I really hope Hellblade 2 is next on the porting list because I would buy it in a heartbeat, asshole microsoft robbed me of this game!

darthv723d ago

Just get an xbox. Then it will be YOU that is robbing Microsoft. Gamepass is a hell of a deal and an addictive one at that.

AndrewM3d ago

No darth, buying an Xbox only helps xbox lol he can play gamepass on com if he wants to take advantage of them destroying themselves.

Scissorman3d ago

If anything I would say that these sales figures and player counts may actually fast-track its PS5 port.

Bathyj3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

Just get an Xbox? You're kidding right? No one paddles out and jumps on a sinking ship.

I wouldn't buy an Xbox for this lacklustre game and I wouldn't sign up to gamepass if I did. People want to trade their long term sustainable games industry for a short term saving, go ahead and see how it turns out.

Actually we're seeing how that turns out. Unsatisfied Devs. Mediocre games and a failing Microsoft games division.

Rhythmattic3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

Hay Darth.. "Just get an xbox"
so.. explain.....what is Xbox ?

GotGame8183d ago

You can play it on PC. Heck you can play it, on just about anything, if you have decent Internet. It is an amazing looking game.

anast3d ago

@Darth

I would have. But ES6 is coming to PlayStation after all, so there's really no need.

MrDead3d ago

darthv72 activity promoting studio shutdowns with that comment.

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90°

Hellblade 2's Excellent Presentation Goes Far Beyond Its Graphics

Hellblade 2 has great presentation, and that includes more than graphics.

Read Full Story >>
gamerant.com
anast4d ago

74 user score on meta. I wouldn't say it includes much more.

PrinceOfAnger4d ago (Edited 4d ago )

81 meta-critic
Steam user score 85% from
(2,677)..

Death stranding
7.4 user score

Last of us part 2
5.8 user score on meta..

Days gone 71 meta-score.

MrNinosan3d ago

All you proved with those numbers is that Xbox fanboys do everything they can to make Sony games look bad and Xbox games look good, while Sony fans mostly are busy playing games instead of review bombing Xbox games.

romulus233d ago (Edited 3d ago )

Death Stranding
82 meta-critic

The Last of Us 2
93 meta-critic

Figured I'd give some context since you conveniently left those scores out.

MrNinosan3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

Btw, why not use Meta for every game or doesn't it fit your agenda?

Current Gen scores:
Hellblade 2 - 7.4 User Score (81MC)
Death Stranding 2 - 7.6 User Score (85MC)
Last of Us Part 2 - 8.1 User Score (90MC)
Days Gone - 8.5 User Score (71MC)

Death Stranding on Stean has 91%
Days Gone on Steam has 92%

anast3d ago

Low player count, 23rd played, the game isn't doing well.

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Crows904d ago

Let it die already. Nobody cares...they should have expanded the games systems

Inverno4d ago

Yeah and many games before it have done what it did and more. Why are we impressed by features that have been standard in many games before? Sites are gonna keep up these fluff pieces for a while longer while everyone has already moved onto some indie game that costs less, took less time to make and does more with gameplay. So many games have been killed off by negative reviews and negative opinion pieces for being more of less like Hellblade 2, but nah this one's special.

EternalTitan4d ago

It dosent even go beyond beyond its mediocre combat.
Graphics will get outdated in a mere two years.
And there is no combat system to hold it up.

PrinceOfAnger3d ago

I hope NT show their next game Project Mara in the coming showcase

Show all comments (13)
170°

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II Review: A Technical Masterpiece Weighed Down by Mediocrity | CBR

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II continues Senua’s struggles against her own reality, but undermines its nuances for an Xbox epic that’s lesser in design.

Jin_Sakai4d ago

Hellblade 2 looks incredible but the gameplay is a linear slog from the looks of it.

gold_drake4d ago

yea, you are essentially walking around in a straight sort of line or corridior for the most part and just ... look at stuff.

Sonyslave34d ago

It funny seeing some of these sites that praise the 1st one but not the sequel.🤔

piroh4d ago

Both games have the exact same metascore 81

MrBaskerville4d ago (Edited 4d ago )

Maybe because it's different?
Personally I liked the puzzles and combat more in the first one and the story was better.

Bathyj4d ago

From what I've seen this game is worse in every way except graphics

Chevalier3d ago

Yeah agreed! Funny seeing idiot Xbox fans who called the 1st game a walking simulator trying to sell this on graphics alone. Then now 'cinematic' games are cool? Talk about flopping like a politician

3d ago
3d ago
Chevalier3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

"You call people idiotic because you’re actually autistic."

Ouch your IQ is pretty damn low if you think Autism is anything like what you're saying. Lol. Nice spam account. Can't refute anything so just need to make a new account in desperation.

3d ago
Chevalier3d ago

"Only a low IQ person would have a comment history that only calls others idiots.

Only one idiot on N4G - you.

P.S. I reported all your comments. Calling people idiots is against the rules"

https://m.youtube.com/watch...

3d ago
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andy854d ago (Edited 4d ago )

I'm confused how it's locked 30 on Series X tbh. Admittedly my laptop is a touch more powerful than a Series X but I'm getting 90-100 fps with low settings. Which is still absolutely stunning btw, even at low settings its the best looking game I've played (i play on high though, which I'm getting 60 with DLSS quality mode). I guess it's a CPU thing but surely it was possible

Skuletor4d ago

I noticed the same thing with Gotham Knights, when I was getting over a hundred fps and wondering how the consoles were stuck at 30.

Elda4d ago

The game is mostly walking around while hearing voices, then puzzles then battle sequences then a talking sequence then repeat.

Doomeduk4d ago

I have some stick drift on my controller,I started the game and an Amazon parcel came after a short but enjoyable chat with the driver I returned to see the end credits rolling

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