Ninja Theory has unveiled the latest installment in the Hellblade saga, titled simply Senua, at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026. This new action-adventure game, set within the established Hellblade universe, is slated for a 2027 release.
The game, which marks the third entry in the series, now goes by the singular title Senua. Studio head Dom Matthews explained that this change reflects a fresh and distinct direction for the game, moving away from the previous “Hellblade” moniker. While the specific reasons for this title change remain undisclosed, Matthews indicated that the game offers a different style of experience.
In Senua, players step into the role of the Celtic warrior Senua, who finds herself in a purgatorial realm caught between life and death. Her journey involves a desperate fight to reach the afterlife and reunite with lost loved ones, all while confronting formidable forces that challenge her beliefs. The trailer suggests a more dynamic combat system, incorporating weapon throwing and stealth attacks, alongside the return of “Focus Abilities” that can manipulate reality.
Matthews elaborated on the utility of these abilities, stating they can be employed during traversal, puzzle-solving, and combat. For instance, a reality-shattering skill shown in the trailer can be used to access new areas of the world or to repel enemies in battle.
Regarding the game’s scope, Matthews revealed that the map in Senua is approximately twice the size of that in Hellblade 2. He clarified that it is not an open-world experience but rather a linear narrative presented across interconnected locations.
Senua is scheduled for release in 2027 and will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PC, and PlayStation 5.
English Translation:
Ninja Theory spotlighted the third installment in the Hellblade series, Senua, at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026, revealing a 2027 release window.
Finally, the sequel has arrived. Now a trilogy, Ninja Theory announced at XBOX Games Showcase 2026 that Senua will be the third title in the Hellblade series. There was no explanation or story hint as to why this installment dropped “Hellblade” from its title, or why it’s not being called Senua 3. Posted on Xbox Wire, Ninja Theory’s studio head Dom Matthews stated, “The title of just Senua really reflects that this is something fresh and new and different. It is a different style of game.”
Announcing Senua, a new action-adventure set in the Hellblade universe. Senua, a Celtic warrior, is trapped between life and death in a fractured vision of purgatory. She must fight to reach the afterlife and reunite with those she loved and lost, battling forces that threaten everything she believes in. The combat in the trailer appeared more dynamic, featuring the ability to throw weapons and attack from stealth. She will also have access to “Focus Abilities,” such as the reality-shattering skill shown in the trailer.
Matthews revealed that players can use these abilities “as and when they wish, across traversal, puzzle solving and combat.” For example, the shatter skill can open up new areas in the world, but it can also be used to push back enemies in combat.
The post provides additional context on the game’s scale, with a map “about twice the size of what we had in Hellblade 2. To be clear though, this isn’t an open-world game,” said Matthews. “It is a linear story told through a map built of interconnected locations.” While Senua is clearly set in the Hellblade world we know, it appears to be a standalone sequel for now.
Senua is set to be released in 2027 on Xbox Series X/S, PC, and PS5.