We just put up our review of Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, the latest game from Ninja Theory, the creators of such titles as Enslaved: Odyssey To the West, DmC: Devil May Cry and Heavenly Sword. And though it may not be for everyone, it’s a truly mesmerizing experience that’s unlike most games you might play these days. Plus, you must play it with headphones to get the best effect.
Videos by ComicBook.com
But there’s an interesting quirk in the game that could very well throw off rookie players if they aren’t too careful – or, for that matter, skilled. Now, be forewarned – we could be entering spoiler territory, so proceed with caution. There, you were warned.
There’s a certain point that you’ll reach within the game, where it warns you that if you end up dying too many times (which could very well happen), a dark rot will begin to take over your body. It eventually grows on you each time you succumb and eventually begins to take over your entire body. Now, if it manages to reach the point that it starts covering your head, that‘s when you should start getting worried.
Once this dark rot covers you completely, it’s not only game over – but your game save also goes with you. That means you have to start over all the way from the beginning. So, yeah, it’s probably best if you don’t suck at the game, or you actually will bite the dust and have to start over from scratch.
Ninja Theory made this a part of the game to add to its heightened realism. You don’t have a helpful HUD to lean on – instead, you have to refer to voices in your head that warn you about incoming danger, and, if you don’t react, well, you’re dead. This adds to the overwhelming tension that the game has to offer. Again, that may not be everyone’s speed, but it’s certainly there, and players seeking a challenge may like the opportunity to play this way.
If you think you’re up to the challenge – and don’t mind being covered in dark goop – Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is available now for PlayStation 4 and PC.
