Common Sense Media Review
By Marc Saltzman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gory action-adventure tackles mental illness with empathy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
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Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
What's It About?
Several years after the launch of the critically heralded Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice (2017), developer Ninja Theory is back with an official sequel for Xbox Series S/X and Windows PC. SENUA'S SAGA: HELLBLADE II once again stars the heroic Senua, a Pict warrior (from the ancient Scottish tribe) with blue face paint, who sets out in Viking era-Iceland to rescue and protect her Celtic people from tyranny—while also wrestling with her own inner demons. A third-person action-adventure hybrid, much of the gameplay focuses on brutal melee combat (mostly swordplay), as well as puzzle-solving and exploration. The story-heavy single-player looks cinematic—and with lifelike graphics, animation and lighting and weather effects—and includes many cut-scene sequences to help drive the narrative along. The 10th-century tale is told through Senua's eyes and ears, as well as her visions caused by her psychosis. Like its predecessor, the developers (now part of Xbox Game Studios), handle the mental health themes artfully and tactfully. Note: The Xbox Series S/X and Windows PC versions of Senua's Saga: Hellblade II look and play in a similar fashion—providing your computer's specs can handle the requirements of the game.
Is It Any Good?
So long as you're aware of its gory violence, this action-adventure sequel is an exceptional example of interactive storytelling—and sets a new benchmark in visual fidelity. Players of Senua's Saga: Hellblade II will no doubt have a deep connection to Senua, and as a result, feel a sense of purpose in her journey as she fights relentless beasts, deadly giants and wrestles with her own inner demons, like the original game, which sets this Xbox/Windows title apart from many others. As a special treat for those who played the original adventure, Senua is noticeably more mature, confident, and stronger in Hellblade II compared to the 2017 title, offering a deeper appreciation for her character evolution. It's beyond beautiful—from streams of dripping water in a cavern to fire burning around you in a village, the visual presentation is breathtaking. In fact, it's not just the graphics you'll marvel at as you explore new areas and hack-and-slash against enemies over the six- to eight-hour quest. The spatial audio effects are like a movie, with the ability to aurally pinpoint where dialog or sound effects originate in the often giant set pieces. The voices in Senua's head play a significant role too, and these audio manifestations result in deeper empathy for the troubled heroine. Along her travels, Senua (competently portrayed by actress Melina Juergens) bands with allies, solves environmental puzzles, and engages in combat with sword duels, balancing offensive strikes with defensive maneuvers. That said, Hellblade II isn't particularly challenging—so be aware you won't likely find yourself stuck at any point—but the fighting remains enjoyable and gratifying. There are minor issues like long stretches of dialog sequences to sit through, but it's a stellar package overall. Ninja Theory has done a great job with Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, proving you can deliver an emotional yet violent game that leaves a lasting impression. While other titles have successfully balanced these elements—like Naughty Dog's The Last of Us, Santa Monica Studios' God of War series, or Bungie's Halo franchise to a lesser extent—Senua has set the bar higher in production values, visceral action, and emotional connection to its central character.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Senua's Saga: Hellblade II. Did you find it thrilling? Scary? Both? What's the impact of media and screen violence on children?
How does the game portray mental illness? Is it handled sensitively? Why is it that important?
Would you describe Senua as a good female role model? Why, or why not? What makes a good role model?
Game Details
- Platforms : Xbox Series X/S , Windows
- Pricing structure : Paid ($49.99)
- Available online? : Available online
- Publisher : Xbox Game Studios
- Release date : May 21, 2024
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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