Ninja Theory has recently shared details about its upcoming title, and some aspects may disappoint fans. In April, the studio, in collaboration with Microsoft, will launch Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, the sequel to Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. This game, exclusive to PC and Xbox Series X|S users, was explored this week by several journalists who had the opportunity to try it out and discuss with the developers, revealing some news that might not please everyone.
Frame Rate Limitation Discussion
A topic that is causing a lot of discussion is the frame rate limitation. On Xbox Series X|S, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II will be limited to 30 frames per second, while on PC, the frame rate will vary depending on the user’s configuration. For such an anticipated game, running on Unreal Engine 5 and scheduled for a next-generation console in 2024, this restriction is a bit disappointing, especially considering the promises of games in 4K at 120 fps. However, Mark Slater-Tunstill, the special effects director, defends this decision by mentioning a desire to achieve a cinematic effect, similar to films that run at 24 frames per second.
The game is designed to offer an experience similar to that of an interactive movie, an approach already present in the first episode. This orientation is particularly noticeable in the combat sequences. Dom Matthews, head of the studio, confirmed on the official Xbox website that all of Senua’s movements are captured by motion capture, enhancing the realism of the scenes.
For the battles, Ninja Theory decided that Senua will face only one enemy at a time, a strategy explained by Benoit Macon, the combat director, who was inspired by the Battle of the Bastards in Game of Thrones to create a brutal and oppressive atmosphere.
Game Duration and Player Experience
The question of the game’s duration was also addressed. According to Dom Matthews, interviewed by IGN, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II will have a duration similar to the first installment, which ended in less than eight hours. He emphasizes that many players prefer shorter experiences, ideal for playing with headphones and in the dark, refuting the idea that a game necessarily needs to last tens of hours. Although the game will be sold only in digital format, probably at a high price, it will also be available via the Game Pass on PC and Xbox Series X|S, an option that many will find economically advantageous for discovering this new chapter, especially knowing these details.
