Ninja Theory has released a lengthy development diary for Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. The almost 10-minute long video focuses on the game’s audio, which is a key component to the action game. This is due to the main character, Senua, suffering from auditory hallucinations. The voices in Senua’s head play a large part in both the game’s story and how the gameplay unfolds.
The developer diary really goes in-depth on how Ninja Theory has made sure to depict mental illness accurately, and not to add to the negative stigma that already exists. The developer seems to be treating the issue with the respect it deserves, and it’ll be interesting to see how it comes together when the full game releases (which is expected to be in 2017).
Originally announced at Gamescom 2014 as Hellblade, the action title was rebranded as Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice in March of this year. This was part of an attempt from the studio to start anew, and reinvorgorate the title’s development. Senua’s Sacrifice marks the first time that Ninja Theory is self-publishing a title, and represents a sizable risk for the company.
Ninja Theory is best known for their highly regarded work on character action titles. Previous games such as DmC: Devil May Cry, Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, and Heavenly Sword were critical successes. Most recently the UK-based developer worked on Disney Infinity 3.0, as they fleshed out the combat in Disney’s toys-to-life title.
Are you excited for Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice? Let us know in the comments below!
(Source: Ninja Theory)
