Ninja Theory's upcoming action-adventure game, Senua, is a bold new step for the series, expanding the scope of combat, adding more puzzle-solving, and introducing a freedom of exploration. The game builds on the acclaimed, award-winning Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, but takes a different direction, focusing on action-adventure gameplay and giving players more agency and a lot more gameplay. The title "Senua" reflects the game's fresh and new direction, rather than being "Hellblade III."
Dom Matthews, Studio Head at Ninja Theory, explains that the game is a response to fan feedback, aiming to satisfy both those who loved Hellblade II and those who felt it lacked traditional gameplay. The game is a result of the entire studio coming together for the first time in over a decade, allowing them to focus on one project and bring their best work to the table. The game's combat is expanded, with more depth and tactical choices, and the world is interconnected, offering players more exploration and rewards.
The game's story takes place after the events of Hellblade I and Hellblade II, set in Purgatory, Senua's vision of her childhood homeland. Senua is on a quest to reach the afterlife and be reunited with her loved ones, healing the wounds of her life to find the peace that unlocks the gate. The recurring motif of the wave of gold represents an insidious but beautiful force that threatens to erode Senua's beliefs and her identity.
Senua arrives in 2027, available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, cloud, and included with Game Pass. It is also available on Steam and PlayStation 5. The game's development timeline is deliberate, with a focus on shipping games and giving players the best experience possible.