The Developer of Hellblade 2 Embraces Shorter Games in the Digital Age
Introducing Hellblade 2
Microsoft-owned developer Ninja Theory is preparing to launch Hellblade 2, the highly anticipated sequel to 2017’s Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. Unlike its predecessor, Hellblade 2 will be a digital-only release and clock in at approximately eight hours in length. This decision reflects Ninja Theory’s commitment to creating experiences that precisely convey the intended storyline without unnecessary padding.
A Perfect Fit
According to Dom Matthews, the studio head of Ninja Theory, the choice to make shorter games results from the desire to tell a cohesive and impactful story. Matthews explained in a recent interview with IGN that the length of the game is tailored to the scope of their storytelling, placing emphasis on capturing the player’s attention and ensuring each moment is meaningful.
Matthews stated, “There is a story that we want to tell here with a beginning, middle, and end, and what is the right shape and size of experience to tell that story? So that’s kind of where we start.”
Audience Appreciation for Compact Experiences
Ninja Theory has discovered a receptive audience for shorter games, where every step in the journey holds significance. Matthews expressed his delight in offering a game that provides players with an immersive experience in a limited timeframe. He added, “There’s an audience of people that want games that are focused.”
A Shift in the Gaming Landscape
The rise of digital distribution has revolutionized the gaming industry, allowing games of all shapes and sizes to reach players. Matthews applauded this development, explaining how it caters to players who don’t have the time to invest in lengthy, open-ended games. Shorter games not only accommodate players’ time constraints but also ensure that each moment contributes to the overall experience.
Success Measured in Impact and Accessibility
Hellblade 2, being a first-party Xbox game, will be available to subscribers of the Game Pass service on its release date of May 21, 2024. Ninja Theory’s metric for success extends beyond sales figures, focusing on empowering their creative team and reaching as many players as possible. Matthews stated, “we love that magic that you can achieve by creating something that makes people think and feel.”
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at [email protected] or confidentially at [email protected].
