Xbox Confirms Hellblade 2 Is Using Unreal Engine 5

Unreal Engine 5 is a stunning new technology that takes graphics where they have never been, and it's being used for Hellblade 2.
This article is over 4 years old and may contain outdated information

Epic Games first revealed Unreal Engine 5 last month and it was absolutely breathtaking the leaps it is taking into better technology for gamers and for developers. With film assets at the ready and reactionary light technology, Unreal Engine 5 is stunning and even more than that, it’s being used to develop Hellblade 2! 

Recommended Videos

Xbox recently shared a new blog post by the team over at Xbox Wire rehashing what we know so far about the Xbox Series X alongside a few new tidbits regarding what fans can look forward to. One of the topic points mentioned was in regards to Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 and how it will be using the Unreal Engine 5 during development. 

The Xbox Wire blog also mentioned that the team behind the sequel, Ninja Theory, is “building the game on Unreal 5 and leveraging the power of Xbox Series X to bring the Hellblade franchise to levels never before seen.” Even better, the first teaser we received last year was shot in-engine as well, which was hailed for its beauty and haunting continuation of a harrowing tale that ensnared millions. 

When the first Hellblade launched on the PlayStation 4, it was instantly hailed for its expertly crafted auditory experience, gut-wrenching narrative, and detailing of mental illness in a way that was respectful while still telling a story. It was no surprise, then, that fans clamored for a sequel; a need that rose to even greater heights when the game made its way to other platforms. 

As for the Unreal Engine 5, the next evolutionary step for game development will naturally have improvements, but the nature of the improvements is what makes it truly special. For the first time, movie assets are a direct link to game creation, making it easier to create stunning interactive experiences that are unparalleled. The Lumina light technology also adds to the realism, allowing for light sources that move in natural ways, providing a more rooted environment for players to explore that are closer to reality than ever before. 

With the Sony showcase going live later today, it’s possible we will be seeing another new look at Hellblade 2 as well as what sort of titles players can expect to see when the PlayStation 5 launches later this year. 

As for Hellblade 2, we don’t have a release date at this time, but you can learn more about the adventure with our previous coverage here. As for the Sony showcase, that is set to go live on June 11 at 3 PM central. 

What do you hope to see out of the upcoming Sony showcase? Any thoughts about what you are most excited for when it comes to Hellblade 2? Join in on the conversation over on Twitter @PrimaGames, we’d love to hear what you think! 


Prima Games is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy

About the Author

Liana Ruppert

With an arguably unhealthy obsession with Dragon Age and Mass Effect, Liana is wildly passionate about all things in the gaming community. From shooters, to RPGs, if it's out - she's playing it. A medically retired US Sailor and now full-time hoarder of gaming collectibles, Liana's passion for everything in the gaming industry is palpable. Also, if you lose her in a crowd, just casually mention any BioWare game and the crazy pterodactyl screech will without a doubt follow. You can follow her on Twitter @DirtyEffinHippy or email her for editorial inquiries at [email protected]!