Hellblade II publishes “Senua’s Psychosis”, a report on mental health in the game

Ninja Theory publishedPsychosis Senuavideo report that takes an in-depth look at mental health perceptions inSenua Saga: Hellblade II‘, including the experiences of Senua – the main character – of psychosis. Drawing on neuroscience and real-world experience, the report shows how the study brought together the expertise of mental health professionals, real gamers, more than 10 years of partnership with Professor Paul Fletcher and the Cambridge Neuroscience Centre, and extensive research to inform the design and history Hellblade II. This report will be included in the game and can be viewed from the main menu.

The importance of mental health

Dom Matthews, studio director, explains that Senua’s psychosis in Hellblade II has its roots in both neuroscience as in real life experience. “When we first came up with the idea of ​​telling the story of a character experiencing psychosis, we immediately knew we had to fully understand this topic. With this intention, we began a collaboration with Professor Paul Fletcher, Professor of Neurobiology at the University of Cambridge, which in turn led us to build a partnership with Recovery College East and other groups of people who, like Senua, “have real experience of seeing and hearing what others don’t and having unique beliefs about the world,” he explains.

“What started as an exercise in hopes of learning quickly turned into creative collaboration where the openness, honesty and enthusiasm of our staff gave us the opportunity to not only truthfully portray Senua’s experiences, but also enhance our character, her world and her story.”

The long-awaited sequel

In Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, the studio promises to expand on what was in the first game and allow players to explore a new facet of Senua’s psychosis. Players will witness first-hand Senua’s journey as she crosses paths with various characters and how her psychosis is affected by more social media. The game will follow in Senua’s footsteps on another brutal journey of survival through Iceland’s Viking myths.

“Determined to save those who have fallen victim to the horrors of tyranny, Senua faces a battle to overcome the darkness within and without.” Against this background, anyone who was familiar with the first game already knows what to expect from Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II. It will undoubtedly offer us an intense experience centered on storytelling with very high graphical and audio qualities that will give volume and meaning to a story that is expected to be brutal and shocking.

Features of Senua’s psychosis – Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

The director also assures that players will be able understand the character’s complex world through solving puzzles, guided by experience, in brutal combat across the landscapes of 10th century Iceland. “Essentially, all these elements intertwine into a unique visual and audio experience where everything is in service of the story. So you can expect more, but this time with support that will allow us to push our ambitions for immersion, loyalty and richness much further than before.”