I played this for the first time while going through Lexapro withdrawal in 2017-*unrelenting* despair, brain shocks, hallucinations in my peripheral vision. Plus a complete inability to enjoy anything (anhedonia), so escapism was off the table as a coping tool. I found Hellblade, though. Rather than escapism, Hellblade felt like commiseration, like it understood. Playing through it wasn't fun; I literally couldn't experience fun. It felt like a harrowing spiritual journey that gave the despair a form I could look in the face and fight. Sessions of play would leave me sweating and exhausted. It was exactly the catharsis I needed. I don't know if I'd have loved this game as much if I'd first played it in a better headspace, but I'm grateful it came out just in time to help me get through that.
I’m glad you got through it. My depression and anxiety can be crippling. I hide it by watching nonstop comedy, or horror movies. I know I should keep trying new medications but the side effects make it hard to work. I don’t like surprise side effects while trying to groom dogs 🤦🏼♀️ It’s surprising sometimes what gets you through the day.
@@bluebebop2337 It was only 10mg. Several months earlier, I had stepped down from 30 to 20, and then 20 to 10, both without problems. Trying to step from 10 to 0 was a nightmare. I tried to muscle through it at first, but ended up having to break my pills into smaller and smaller doses until stepping to 0 became survivable.
I had something similar happen to me when I went off my lexapro and adhd meds at the same time (due to a lapse in prescription refill that was not my fault)...and the only thing that got me through it was video games and watching shows all day and night until my insomnia and paranoia wore off. I'm sorry that you went through similar symptoms as well, and I hope you're doing much better now!
The mental illness is psychosis and it did break ground on its portrayal. The combat not so much, but I actually really like the concept of the puzzles. They tie into mental illness struggles really well imo.Looking forward to your interpretations and overall opinions!
Right?! That was all I could think of with all the voices putting in their two cents, acting like chat/the YT comment section. Surprised none of them said, "When's he gonna start playing horror games agaaaaain? >:("
Really sorry for yours, kimmys, & Cks loss recently. Hope you all are doing alright. And for brighter days ahead! Looking forward to watching this series!
When I saw his tweet I was pretty bummed out, Belle was such a good girl. I was really hoping for their pup to live many more years, specially for Ck bc having a childhood pet that's been there for you since day 1 is a really special experience. RIP Belle.
I agree. I had a border collie for the first 5 years or so of my life. Extremely protective, but knew exactly how to play with different ages. It really teaches empathy toward others and how play well with them. I wish I'd had more time with her. I know it's too soon right now, but I'd highly recommend getting another when you're ready. Besides the empathy and respect, it also teaches responsibility. (I hope I haven't overstepped any boundaries saying that. I sincerely apologize if I have.)
The accuracy of the voices in this game is just unreal I’ve watched people play it a few times. As someone who suffers from a similar illness, it’s an incredible performance and game.
Difficult game to comment on while playing, cause of the constant banter and narration. One of a kind experience though. Amazing performance by the Senua actress.
I've been purposely avoiding this game. To someone with daily auditory hallucinations this will probably be anxiety inducing. Nothing bad can happen tho, we'll be fine, heard good things about this game many times
Its not very good game. Lots of repeating buzzles and depressing story. Just play something more positive and exciting...or go out to the nature and enjoy sun shine. Beside, not every game is for everyone. Many people loved this but many people also didn't.
This game was too real for me- I had to stop playing several times to walk away and cry it out. But it felt so good to finally finish. It's intensely emotional at times, and deals really well with the themes of psychosis. I won't be disappointed if you don't have as big of reactions as I did, as the subject matter just struck a personal chord with me, but I do really hope you enjoy it. If nothing else, it's a unique experience with phenomenal sound design and voice acting. I classify it alongside Scorn, even though they're very different games. It's also not an easy game to play with your style of commentary- the Furies don't let you get a word in edgewise, and they really got under my skin at times. I do hope you don't tear it apart too much lol
The development of this game was pretty awesome, it was made by a vary small team with an even smaller budget. What they achieved was very impressive, It has it's limitations but it has a AAA feel with a indie authenticity to it
A lot of folk complain about the subtitles in this game because they aren't accurate in some parts or otherwise don't reveal anything (although I think if it revealed ALL the voices the screen would get crowded), but I think that adds to the experience of not being able to trust your senses, of things not always connecting. I do also like how the environment reacts to observation, like in the beginning the cliffs look like normal boulders and cliffs when you are just glancing, but if you look closer there are carvings all along them. It really shows how psychosis affects every sense
I mean that's great and all, but I have friends with hearing issues, or whose first language isn't english for whom the game is genuinely less accessible because the subtitles suck.
@@elilass8410 Oh no I get you. It does seem that they've been improved recently, as there are less errors (I haven't seen any so far so probably none) so they've taken that into account
"Can I cast Speak with Dead?" made me laugh cuz this really does keep reminding me of BG3, I think specifically because of the narrators in both games sounding fairly similar (and delivering good performances). This is an unusual little game, interested to see how it goes!
I am amazed at John's restraint to not compare the voices we hear to chat/the comments section. It was all I could think of! Also, I really like the lighting! I think the idea to match it to the game is a great one
ADHJKLJH "This may seem.... kind of random. But there's actually a BANGER song from the children's television show, Arthur the Aardvark-" Did NOT expect that sentence to end that way.
So excited to see John play this. I only got around to this less than 2 years ago, and it was stuck in my head for the longest time afterwards. My thoughts still drift to it a lot to this day. On a related note, my wife does have a form of schizophrenia (I think the terminology has changed now), and she hears voices. According to her, this game's portrayal is pretty darn spot of for her experience.
I know this is such a low bar, but I'm really thankful that you didn't make any weird jokes about Senua (only Dillion's weird name so far lmao). As someone who sometimes has psychosis (auditory hallucinations, dissociation, etc.), I've been avoiding this game for a long, long time, and now I'm finally ready to tackle watching a playthrough of it thanks to you! Thank you for not being a weirdo about this game!!
Oh man, this is a game I've played a couple of times by now. It's kind of a "comforting" experience for me - something that's been there when things got rough that always makes me feel a little better lol. I hope you enjoy it! It is more of a serious experience but as someone who enjoys when you "get serious" I'm looking forward to it. Also it is a very linear game, similar to Scorn in that sense. There's small things you can find that add a little flavor to the story, but nothing I would stress too much about.
When I first found this game I couldn’t get through full playthroughs because I was still coping with awful hallucinations (visual hallucinations and voices) and it was too overwhelming for me as much as I wanted to like the game. I’m really excited to watch you play it now and it almost proves to me that I’m in a much better headspace and have more support now than I did years ago which is a good feeling :> anyways always enjoy watching your videos and thank you for all the amazing content lately we appreciate it a lot!
I strugled to play it even through. Buzzles were boring, combats too rare and story depressing. I do like some short movie, buzzle or story games like Rumbble, Planet of Lana etc. But they are touching and beautiful with amazing music... not depressing like this. But each on their own.
2 fun facts: 1- the game was originally called “Senua’s Sacrifice” but corporate didn’t think it’d sell well due to the female name and wanted something edgier. So the compromise was to add a new title (Hellblade) with the original title as a now subtitle. Kind of heartbreaking. Which makes the sequel putting Senua’s Saga first is vindicating. Must be. 2-Andy LaPlegua did the music for this game (didn’t know that). He also did the music for DMC and had music from one of his bands, Combichrist, featured on it. Bonus-the song at the end of the game is by VNV Nation, and it took me by suprise hearing them in a video game, let alone this one. Also this game’s lead up to the ending is visceral. I’m excited to watch you play this game. It’s definitely horror adjacent too.
Holy shit, John... I had that "jekyll jekyll hyde" chorus in my head for my whole life (phonetically at least) and I never figured it out where it came from... Thanks for accidentally solving one of my biggest personal mysteries!
As a few have mentioned. This is extremely well made with the audio and visual. I'm using a 7.1 surround and they did a very nice job on the audio effects..... Edit: My only complaints would be some of the combat's a bit hard to get 'right'.. and the fact I wish she wouldn't be such a "mouth breather"......
For what it's worth, I really appreciate the way you adjust the lighting for what you're playing. It really makes it feel more like part of the experience than just "Timmy Five-Fingers has an unfocused, oversaturated webcam."
This game is one of a kind. I started a playthrough on my channel over a year ago, but unfortunately my PC couldn't handle the game + recording, and I lost the later footage, so I ended up finishing it by myself. This game is forever with me, and I respect it more than almost any other game. The storytelling is phenomenal. I missed that sense of "What will I do with my life now?" after finishing a good game, and this game for me is second to the Witcher 3 in giving me this feeling. I am so incredibly happy to see you play this, and I already pre-purchased the second game!
omg yesss i've wanted to watch someone play this game since it came out (bc i'm not a huge gamer myself) and nobody I watched on youtube ever played it so i'm so excited to watch you play it now!!
I was so pumped when you said in the shareholder meeting you were going to play this. Absolutely one of my most favorite games of all time. Ninja Theory made some amazing videos about making this game. Cant wait to see what you think!
I couldnt deal with the combat and puzzles in this game but was so impressed by the theme and portrayal of mental illness- im so excited to watch your playthrough!
Finally have time to catch up with this playthrough. I never got to finish the game myself (I found the combat too awkward at the time), so I'm excited to see the whole thing. One thing I do remember vividly is the atmosphere. It's so good, that opening sequence still gives me chills.
Really excited to see you playing this, just finished the game a week ago & enjoyed it loads, great performances from the cast & I've already got Hellblade 2 ready to go when its released later this month
Seeing this upload really reminded me that I need to get back to my own gameplay of this game because the whole reason I started it was so I could be ready for the sequel this month. 😅
Omg!!! I have been waiting for you to play this since it came out!!! I've watched a play through of this before but I'm so looking forward to you playing it, also had no idea a second one was coming!!
arthur mention 🤣🤣 jekyl hyde absolutely was a banger, you're right! i didn't have any interest watching this game when it first came out and people were playing but the aspect of the voices is really interesting. them egging you on and scolding you in every scene does kind of add to the atmosphere, I like it
Ooh, excellent choice! I loved this game. Despite lacking variety, the combat is well paced and just so damn *fierce* that I felt pretty engaged with it through the whole game (helps that the game is relatively short, again, good pacing). I found the atmosphere to be completely enveloping. The cacophony of voices is supposed to represent auditory hallucinations, but I think they also work extremely well in representing intrusive thoughts that come with other mental illnesses (such as OCD which I have). I think they pulled off quite the feat with a clearly limited budget and small development team. Stellar art direction carries a lot of weight. I'm kind of butthurt that the sequel is set to be an Xbox console exclusive, but hopefully that's a temporary thing. As an aside , I had a great deal of fun with photo mode in it, although I think I may have used the Nvidia one on my PC as the built in one is much more limited. Captured some great action shots. Ps: did anyone else thin Druth sounded just like Liam Neeson? 😂
I have this game on Steam since forever, now that you're playing it I picked it up and I'm going through the chapters and then watch your playthrough for your commentary
THIS IS SO COOL!!! I really like the way the combat looks and the puzzles are neat but don't seem too difficult. And the little helpers lol, they can be annoying at times but I like them enough. Also your lighting is really cool
I’m so stoked that you’re playing this! The story is great and Senua is written really well imo. You did an awesome job with the combat, I got WHOOPED by Valravn a couple times during my playthrough before getting past him. 😅 His purpose was to guard Helheim’s bridge (Helheim is the land of the dead, the bridge is the one you saw in the opening cutscene). The game is pretty linear, you don’t have to explore if you don’t want to. The only collectibles in the game are Lorestones, like the one you found at 8:57 . Collecting them all gives you an extra scene at the end that reveals some more info about the story, but in all honesty the story is already pretty tight even if you don’t collect ‘em all.
Hi John! I’ve been a long time fan (followed you since you were HarshlyCritical with Bunker 16) and am thrilled to see you playing this game, particularly because I myself have personally lived with psychosis. Hellblade is an incredibly true to life portrayal of what these experiences can be like, and I know you’ll treat it with the utmost respect. I’m thrilled for this series.
Someone I watched play this before never made it past the first episode for whatever their reasons were and I just never got to watch this. So I’m excited that you’re playing it! Already I feel kind of drawn to it, even before reading some comments about the mental illness portrayal in this game. I’ve suffered deep dissociation and hallucinations that lasted years, although my hallucinations were more visual but u did believe things and ‘see things’ that then I would immediately try to makeup something to make it make sense. Almost like I was talking to myself rather than hearing other voices. Very strange times. I found you through gab and in glad I did! It’s nice to find more people who still play longer games even though TH-cam seems to not like that anymore!
By the way! When Senua falls to the ground in combat for the enemy's last strike, you can move/press your controls erratically to get her to maybe get up.
John I signed into my account to leave this comment but I was just saying the other day to my partner that it would be so cool if you played Hellblade (we just watched your Bramble play through)! I love this game so much as someone struggling with anxiety/negative thoughts/depression etc. It was a way for me to look at my mental illness and childhood trauma objectively. I hope you enjoy this and I hope you play the new one when it comes out ❤❤❤ Thanks for uploading this and treating it with respect
I remember playing this a few years ago but my computer could barely handle it and i clipped through the floor and fell out of the world while going through a crouch path :/ this is nice though, i get to find out what happens next!!
Every time they say her name it trips me up because it is very close to my own name, haha. Lucky it's also different enough that it isn't TOO weird. I almost never hear names similar to mine, especially in games of movies so it's really trippy!
I'm SO excited that you're playing through Hellblade! One of my favorite games; especially as someone who is currently working on their Master's in psych! I hope you enjoy it! P.S. I really hope you watch the hellblade feature that they have in the main menu after you complete the game! It's great, but only watch it after you beat it cause it may have some spoilers!
Oh, John’s playing Hellblade. Loved this game. Hope he went into with the mindset that the developers initially wanted us to believe about -(spoilers) - - - - - - - - - - - Senua only being able to die a certain amount of times and then you have to start all over. It really makes you play like all your invested hours are at stake, like an old school arcade game. Of course, this wasn’t true. The developers were just messing with us. But it should have been.
Gonna watch later when I can get fully immersed, but I've heard good things about this game! I avoided it because I wanted to play it myself but, it's been years and that hasn't happened so :'D I'm excited!
Agree. This isn’t supposed to be a combat-focused game, but a lot of people went into it expecting that to be the focus. The focus is always Senua’s journey and story, the fights are just part of it.
This is a super interesting game so far! Thanks for sharing your playthrough with us :D The only thing I personally don't like is how quiet the whispering narrators are in comparison to the atmospheric music/sounds. I can't wear headphones right now and it's sometimes incredibly hard to understand what is said.
This is an amazing game and I can't believe I have not checked it out before. The visuals are spot on and the main character is beautifully acted. The representation of mental struggles is probably the most attractive thing about this game. Very well represented. Also that fight scene with Valraven was outstanding. Really enjoyed.
Can't watch right now, but wanted to leave an engagement comment in case I forget later. Played the game myself around 2 years ago and had a pretty good time. Hope you enjoy it too!
Wow all the comments on this game are so cool which makes me excited for your play through! I love when video games have a deeper meaning, express/portray the darker parts of life, and exist more as an art-from rather than a “fun” lil experience. Even better that you’re playing it, considering the dark theme that many of us can unfortunately relate to is nicely balanced with your personality… you take the game seriously when necessary but your humor is much needed as well. Intrigued to see where this goes!!
Ninja Theory did a ton of research on mental health and the brain for this and the sequel. They just put out a 23min video about it on their channel. It's super interesting, and you can tell that they really care about the subject matter. I highly recommend watching it, but it contains spoilers for this game. So you'd probably want to wait until after John finishes his playthrough. Haha
i think there is a making off vlog from ninja theory where the actress says how she became the actress. she was just a student from germany wanting to make the social media and the boss coming in asking like " can you make a stand in while we find the real actress for senua?"
I bothered to translate the runes on the first runestone (in red). Turns out it's written in plain english just with runes as letters: Seek Helas truth in mirrors. Gods betray us. Unmask fear.
Wow it's really disorienting and stressful to hear so many voices. The only thing that was kinda cute I guess was when the voices cheered her on during the fight.
Definitely going to play this. First time I heard of it and the intro to it just pulled me in. Looking forward to more. After hearing the stakes, the combat is kind of nerve wracking to watch lol. (Not me suddenly yelling FUCK HIM UP during that last fight and scaring tf out of my Guinea pigs so they’re chattering at me lol. Sorry guys.)
John I think the only collectibles in this game are those lore stones and iirc they affect the ending , I don't remember if it's to unlock an extra cutscene or an extended version of the ending but either way that's all they do it's up to you if you wanna look for them , they aren't too far from the critical path for the most part so you might find most of them as you go thru the game. I hope you like this one this game is great I'm hyped for the sequel.
I wish John would play dave the diver, ask gabbs it's an amazing game! Never heard of it until it hit ps plus and I'm so glad I tried it out it is by far somehow 2.5 d game in 2024 cracked my favorite of all time list. The game is something I know John would love since he liked dredge so much and there is also a dlc tie in to dredge in it and it's pretty cool
Ahhhh, so excited! I can't wait to see you play this! Omg! I adored heavenly sword and then this came out by the same people and it was fantastic. Oh my gosh they just can do no wrong in my eyes. I'm so excited to see you play through this!
![Surtre's Domain [Hellblade - Part 2]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vkjDOCgBPpg/mqdefault.jpg)
![Surtre's Domain [Hellblade - Part 2]](/img/tr.png)
![Nonlethal Company [Sketchy's Contract - Part 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wzfOB6Zl_-4/mqdefault.jpg)
![Until Dawn + Dead By Daylight = [The Casting of Frank Stone - Part 1]](/img/n.gif)
I played this for the first time while going through Lexapro withdrawal in 2017-*unrelenting* despair, brain shocks, hallucinations in my peripheral vision. Plus a complete inability to enjoy anything (anhedonia), so escapism was off the table as a coping tool.
I found Hellblade, though. Rather than escapism, Hellblade felt like commiseration, like it understood. Playing through it wasn't fun; I literally couldn't experience fun. It felt like a harrowing spiritual journey that gave the despair a form I could look in the face and fight. Sessions of play would leave me sweating and exhausted. It was exactly the catharsis I needed.
I don't know if I'd have loved this game as much if I'd first played it in a better headspace, but I'm grateful it came out just in time to help me get through that.
I’m glad you got through it. My depression and anxiety can be crippling. I hide it by watching nonstop comedy, or horror movies. I know I should keep trying new medications but the side effects make it hard to work. I don’t like surprise side effects while trying to groom dogs 🤦🏼♀️ It’s surprising sometimes what gets you through the day.
You must have been on quite a high dose
@@bluebebop2337 It was only 10mg. Several months earlier, I had stepped down from 30 to 20, and then 20 to 10, both without problems. Trying to step from 10 to 0 was a nightmare. I tried to muscle through it at first, but ended up having to break my pills into smaller and smaller doses until stepping to 0 became survivable.
I had something similar happen to me when I went off my lexapro and adhd meds at the same time (due to a lapse in prescription refill that was not my fault)...and the only thing that got me through it was video games and watching shows all day and night until my insomnia and paranoia wore off. I'm sorry that you went through similar symptoms as well, and I hope you're doing much better now!
The mental illness is psychosis and it did break ground on its portrayal. The combat not so much, but I actually really like the concept of the puzzles. They tie into mental illness struggles really well imo.Looking forward to your interpretations and overall opinions!
John out here advertising Hellblade 2 more than Microsoft
The voices chiding you as wander around ...kinda like having Twitch stream back-seaters again. 😂
Right?! That was all I could think of with all the voices putting in their two cents, acting like chat/the YT comment section. Surprised none of them said, "When's he gonna start playing horror games agaaaaain? >:("
Really sorry for yours, kimmys, & Cks loss recently. Hope you all are doing alright. And for brighter days ahead!
Looking forward to watching this series!
When I saw his tweet I was pretty bummed out, Belle was such a good girl. I was really hoping for their pup to live many more years, specially for Ck bc having a childhood pet that's been there for you since day 1 is a really special experience. RIP Belle.
I agree. I had a border collie for the first 5 years or so of my life. Extremely protective, but knew exactly how to play with different ages. It really teaches empathy toward others and how play well with them. I wish I'd had more time with her.
I know it's too soon right now, but I'd highly recommend getting another when you're ready. Besides the empathy and respect, it also teaches responsibility. (I hope I haven't overstepped any boundaries saying that. I sincerely apologize if I have.)
The accuracy of the voices in this game is just unreal I’ve watched people play it a few times. As someone who suffers from a similar illness, it’s an incredible performance and game.
Difficult game to comment on while playing, cause of the constant banter and narration. One of a kind experience though. Amazing performance by the Senua actress.
Remember when games were fun? This ain't it!
@@user-os7ec4dm8x??? dumb take
@@user-os7ec4dm8x Braindead take.
The Arthur song reference was such a deep cut, and now I, too, cannot stop singing Jekyll Jekyll Hyde
I've been purposely avoiding this game. To someone with daily auditory hallucinations this will probably be anxiety inducing. Nothing bad can happen tho, we'll be fine, heard good things about this game many times
This really might not be great for you.
Hope you're well.🖤
Its not very good game. Lots of repeating buzzles and depressing story.
Just play something more positive and exciting...or go out to the nature and enjoy sun shine.
Beside, not every game is for everyone. Many people loved this but many people also didn't.
This game was too real for me- I had to stop playing several times to walk away and cry it out. But it felt so good to finally finish. It's intensely emotional at times, and deals really well with the themes of psychosis. I won't be disappointed if you don't have as big of reactions as I did, as the subject matter just struck a personal chord with me, but I do really hope you enjoy it. If nothing else, it's a unique experience with phenomenal sound design and voice acting. I classify it alongside Scorn, even though they're very different games.
It's also not an easy game to play with your style of commentary- the Furies don't let you get a word in edgewise, and they really got under my skin at times. I do hope you don't tear it apart too much lol
scorn... so its shit then?
The development of this game was pretty awesome, it was made by a vary small team with an even smaller budget. What they achieved was very impressive, It has it's limitations but it has a AAA feel with a indie authenticity to it
A lot of folk complain about the subtitles in this game because they aren't accurate in some parts or otherwise don't reveal anything (although I think if it revealed ALL the voices the screen would get crowded), but I think that adds to the experience of not being able to trust your senses, of things not always connecting. I do also like how the environment reacts to observation, like in the beginning the cliffs look like normal boulders and cliffs when you are just glancing, but if you look closer there are carvings all along them. It really shows how psychosis affects every sense
I mean that's great and all, but I have friends with hearing issues, or whose first language isn't english for whom the game is genuinely less accessible because the subtitles suck.
@@elilass8410 Oh no I get you. It does seem that they've been improved recently, as there are less errors (I haven't seen any so far so probably none) so they've taken that into account
"Can I cast Speak with Dead?" made me laugh cuz this really does keep reminding me of BG3, I think specifically because of the narrators in both games sounding fairly similar (and delivering good performances). This is an unusual little game, interested to see how it goes!
I am amazed at John's restraint to not compare the voices we hear to chat/the comments section. It was all I could think of! Also, I really like the lighting! I think the idea to match it to the game is a great one
ADHJKLJH "This may seem.... kind of random. But there's actually a BANGER song from the children's television show, Arthur the Aardvark-" Did NOT expect that sentence to end that way.
hey john, its guys.
im so happy you’re playing this game lol, thanks for making my evening a bit better.
So excited to see John play this. I only got around to this less than 2 years ago, and it was stuck in my head for the longest time afterwards. My thoughts still drift to it a lot to this day.
On a related note, my wife does have a form of schizophrenia (I think the terminology has changed now), and she hears voices. According to her, this game's portrayal is pretty darn spot of for her experience.
I have schizoaffective disorder which may be what your wife has and this game is accurate to most of my experience too!
@@garnettekken Schizoaffective disorder is exactly what she has.
John this lighting paired with your headphones is awesome
I was thinking the same! He’s looking cool in the blue-red lighting!
I know this is such a low bar, but I'm really thankful that you didn't make any weird jokes about Senua (only Dillion's weird name so far lmao). As someone who sometimes has psychosis (auditory hallucinations, dissociation, etc.), I've been avoiding this game for a long, long time, and now I'm finally ready to tackle watching a playthrough of it thanks to you! Thank you for not being a weirdo about this game!!
Oh man, this is a game I've played a couple of times by now. It's kind of a "comforting" experience for me - something that's been there when things got rough that always makes me feel a little better lol.
I hope you enjoy it! It is more of a serious experience but as someone who enjoys when you "get serious" I'm looking forward to it.
Also it is a very linear game, similar to Scorn in that sense. There's small things you can find that add a little flavor to the story, but nothing I would stress too much about.
I periodically get the Jekyll Hyde song stuck in my head. It is a banger
Well, as everyone knows, having fun... Isn't hard... When you've got a library card.
For me it's "A-A-R-D-V-A-R-K" 🤣
When I first found this game I couldn’t get through full playthroughs because I was still coping with awful hallucinations (visual hallucinations and voices) and it was too overwhelming for me as much as I wanted to like the game. I’m really excited to watch you play it now and it almost proves to me that I’m in a much better headspace and have more support now than I did years ago which is a good feeling :> anyways always enjoy watching your videos and thank you for all the amazing content lately we appreciate it a lot!
I am just loving your long-form content and getting to just sit-back for an hour or two or three and just get to enjoy your playthrough!
This game as a story is very amazing. What an interesting portrayal of mental illness and mourning. Keep up the great work, John! You are amazing!
I'm so glad I'm not the only person who, quite consistely in my adult years, sings Hey Arnold's Jekyll Hyde song without having heard it in 25 years
This is easily in my Top 5 of all time. Such an incredible experience. Hope you enjoy it!
I strugled to play it even through. Buzzles were boring, combats too rare and story depressing.
I do like some short movie, buzzle or story games like Rumbble, Planet of Lana etc. But they are touching and beautiful with amazing music... not depressing like this. But each on their own.
2 fun facts:
1- the game was originally called “Senua’s Sacrifice” but corporate didn’t think it’d sell well due to the female name and wanted something edgier. So the compromise was to add a new title (Hellblade) with the original title as a now subtitle.
Kind of heartbreaking. Which makes the sequel putting Senua’s Saga first is vindicating. Must be.
2-Andy LaPlegua did the music for this game (didn’t know that). He also did the music for DMC and had music from one of his bands, Combichrist, featured on it.
Bonus-the song at the end of the game is by VNV Nation, and it took me by suprise hearing them in a video game, let alone this one.
Also this game’s lead up to the ending is visceral. I’m excited to watch you play this game.
It’s definitely horror adjacent too.
Holy shit, John... I had that "jekyll jekyll hyde" chorus in my head for my whole life (phonetically at least) and I never figured it out where it came from... Thanks for accidentally solving one of my biggest personal mysteries!
*HAVING FUN ISN'T HARD, WHEN YOU'VE GOT A LIBRARY CARD*
As a few have mentioned. This is extremely well made with the audio and visual. I'm using a 7.1 surround and they did a very nice job on the audio effects.....
Edit: My only complaints would be some of the combat's a bit hard to get 'right'.. and the fact I wish she wouldn't be such a "mouth breather"......
For what it's worth, I really appreciate the way you adjust the lighting for what you're playing. It really makes it feel more like part of the experience than just "Timmy Five-Fingers has an unfocused, oversaturated webcam."
This game is one of a kind. I started a playthrough on my channel over a year ago, but unfortunately my PC couldn't handle the game + recording, and I lost the later footage, so I ended up finishing it by myself. This game is forever with me, and I respect it more than almost any other game. The storytelling is phenomenal. I missed that sense of "What will I do with my life now?" after finishing a good game, and this game for me is second to the Witcher 3 in giving me this feeling. I am so incredibly happy to see you play this, and I already pre-purchased the second game!
omg yesss i've wanted to watch someone play this game since it came out (bc i'm not a huge gamer myself) and nobody I watched on youtube ever played it so i'm so excited to watch you play it now!!
I was so pumped when you said in the shareholder meeting you were going to play this. Absolutely one of my most favorite games of all time. Ninja Theory made some amazing videos about making this game. Cant wait to see what you think!
I couldnt deal with the combat and puzzles in this game but was so impressed by the theme and portrayal of mental illness- im so excited to watch your playthrough!
I know this game because of Heilung, who made some songs for the game.
I'm so happy he's playing this! 🖤
Ohh I was thinking of Heilung the whole time watching this! It’s very their aesthetic
Finally have time to catch up with this playthrough. I never got to finish the game myself (I found the combat too awkward at the time), so I'm excited to see the whole thing. One thing I do remember vividly is the atmosphere. It's so good, that opening sequence still gives me chills.
Really excited to see you playing this, just finished the game a week ago & enjoyed it loads, great performances from the cast & I've already got Hellblade 2 ready to go when its released later this month
That song from Arthur IS an absolute banger, next to the Library Card song so ty for reminding me of the past
Seeing this upload really reminded me that I need to get back to my own gameplay of this game because the whole reason I started it was so I could be ready for the sequel this month. 😅
Love the lighting John
Omg!!! I have been waiting for you to play this since it came out!!! I've watched a play through of this before but I'm so looking forward to you playing it, also had no idea a second one was coming!!
arthur mention 🤣🤣 jekyl hyde absolutely was a banger, you're right! i didn't have any interest watching this game when it first came out and people were playing but the aspect of the voices is really interesting. them egging you on and scolding you in every scene does kind of add to the atmosphere, I like it
Ooh, excellent choice! I loved this game. Despite lacking variety, the combat is well paced and just so damn *fierce* that I felt pretty engaged with it through the whole game (helps that the game is relatively short, again, good pacing). I found the atmosphere to be completely enveloping. The cacophony of voices is supposed to represent auditory hallucinations, but I think they also work extremely well in representing intrusive thoughts that come with other mental illnesses (such as OCD which I have). I think they pulled off quite the feat with a clearly limited budget and small development team. Stellar art direction carries a lot of weight. I'm kind of butthurt that the sequel is set to be an Xbox console exclusive, but hopefully that's a temporary thing.
As an aside , I had a great deal of fun with photo mode in it, although I think I may have used the Nvidia one on my PC as the built in one is much more limited. Captured some great action shots.
Ps: did anyone else thin Druth sounded just like Liam Neeson? 😂
I have this game on Steam since forever, now that you're playing it I picked it up and I'm going through the chapters and then watch your playthrough for your commentary
I'm very excited to see you play this game John! It's a personal favorite of mine.
THIS IS SO COOL!!! I really like the way the combat looks and the puzzles are neat but don't seem too difficult. And the little helpers lol, they can be annoying at times but I like them enough. Also your lighting is really cool
I’m so stoked that you’re playing this! The story is great and Senua is written really well imo. You did an awesome job with the combat, I got WHOOPED by Valravn a couple times during my playthrough before getting past him. 😅 His purpose was to guard Helheim’s bridge (Helheim is the land of the dead, the bridge is the one you saw in the opening cutscene).
The game is pretty linear, you don’t have to explore if you don’t want to. The only collectibles in the game are Lorestones, like the one you found at 8:57 . Collecting them all gives you an extra scene at the end that reveals some more info about the story, but in all honesty the story is already pretty tight even if you don’t collect ‘em all.
Hi John! I’ve been a long time fan (followed you since you were HarshlyCritical with Bunker 16) and am thrilled to see you playing this game, particularly because I myself have personally lived with psychosis. Hellblade is an incredibly true to life portrayal of what these experiences can be like, and I know you’ll treat it with the utmost respect. I’m thrilled for this series.
Someone I watched play this before never made it past the first episode for whatever their reasons were and I just never got to watch this. So I’m excited that you’re playing it!
Already I feel kind of drawn to it, even before reading some comments about the mental illness portrayal in this game. I’ve suffered deep dissociation and hallucinations that lasted years, although my hallucinations were more visual but u did believe things and ‘see things’ that then I would immediately try to makeup something to make it make sense. Almost like I was talking to myself rather than hearing other voices. Very strange times.
I found you through gab and in glad I did! It’s nice to find more people who still play longer games even though TH-cam seems to not like that anymore!
I always meant to try this game out and just never got around to it. Thank you for sharing it with us!
By the way! When Senua falls to the ground in combat for the enemy's last strike, you can move/press your controls erratically to get her to maybe get up.
I’m so happy to see you play hellblade! This is one of my favorite games, hope you have a great time
Comment made before I've watched the video: I loved this game in VR! Excited for you to do the whole game!
The voices are like back seaters talking smack
When I saw the thumbnail for this I honestly said “Yes!” I really like this game and I hope you do, too!
One of the best story-driven games.
You picked up the battle techniques quickly. Great job!
John I signed into my account to leave this comment but I was just saying the other day to my partner that it would be so cool if you played Hellblade (we just watched your Bramble play through)! I love this game so much as someone struggling with anxiety/negative thoughts/depression etc. It was a way for me to look at my mental illness and childhood trauma objectively. I hope you enjoy this and I hope you play the new one when it comes out ❤❤❤ Thanks for uploading this and treating it with respect
“Love it when I'm just talking about a game, that I haven't played. Like I know what it's about.”
The motto of many a “gamer”, on social media.
I remember playing this a few years ago but my computer could barely handle it and i clipped through the floor and fell out of the world while going through a crouch path :/ this is nice though, i get to find out what happens next!!
I haven’t even watched yet but I’m so excited. I love this game and I’m super excited for the sequel coming soon.
YESSS so excited for you to play this! This game is such a beautiful art piece
I'm so excited you're playing this, John! it's one of my favorite games of all time! 😁
I watched a playthrough of this when it first came out, but I'm so excited to hear your thoughts!!
Ohhh I'm so excited that you're playing this game!!!!
After 7 years of waiting, you actually get to play the game I gifted you. ❤🎉🎉🎉
Every time they say her name it trips me up because it is very close to my own name, haha. Lucky it's also different enough that it isn't TOO weird. I almost never hear names similar to mine, especially in games of movies so it's really trippy!
Feel like youve been picking some fantastic games lately John! Looking forward to your Stream tomorrow 🎉
I'm SO excited that you're playing through Hellblade!
One of my favorite games; especially as someone who is currently working on their Master's in psych!
I hope you enjoy it!
P.S. I really hope you watch the hellblade feature that they have in the main menu after you complete the game! It's great, but only watch it after you beat it cause it may have some spoilers!
Oh, John’s playing Hellblade. Loved this game. Hope he went into with the mindset that the developers initially wanted us to believe about -(spoilers)
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Senua only being able to die a certain amount of times and then you have to start all over. It really makes you play like all your invested hours are at stake, like an old school arcade game. Of course, this wasn’t true. The developers were just messing with us. But it should have been.
I haven't watched this yet, but know the game and said to my husband, "John's playing Hellblade, so that's depressing!" (Great game, though.)
Love the lighting!
i foresee myself falling asleep to the whispery dialogue of this game
Woooow 🎉🎉🎉❤ I have been expecting this series, thank you John hope you'll enjoy it, it's awesome 👌
Gonna watch later when I can get fully immersed, but I've heard good things about this game! I avoided it because I wanted to play it myself but, it's been years and that hasn't happened so :'D
I'm excited!
honestly glad to see you enjoying the combat. it gets a lot of shit for it but i actually think its pretty great in its simplicity
Agree. This isn’t supposed to be a combat-focused game, but a lot of people went into it expecting that to be the focus. The focus is always Senua’s journey and story, the fights are just part of it.
This is a super interesting game so far! Thanks for sharing your playthrough with us :D
The only thing I personally don't like is how quiet the whispering narrators are in comparison to the atmospheric music/sounds. I can't wear headphones right now and it's sometimes incredibly hard to understand what is said.
This is an amazing game and I can't believe I have not checked it out before. The visuals are spot on and the main character is beautifully acted. The representation of mental struggles is probably the most attractive thing about this game. Very well represented. Also that fight scene with Valraven was outstanding. Really enjoyed.
What a beautiful video i watch today and it was so entertaining to see and watch and have a Zelda time 😊😮🎉❤😮🫡🫡^^
Hell yeah. Accidentally found this gem while back, but didn't finish the game for some reason lol. Totally gonna enjoy your playthrough.
the voices are really unnerving. Curious to see where this goes.
Can't watch right now, but wanted to leave an engagement comment in case I forget later. Played the game myself around 2 years ago and had a pretty good time. Hope you enjoy it too!
Wow all the comments on this game are so cool which makes me excited for your play through! I love when video games have a deeper meaning, express/portray the darker parts of life, and exist more as an art-from rather than a “fun” lil experience. Even better that you’re playing it, considering the dark theme that many of us can unfortunately relate to is nicely balanced with your personality… you take the game seriously when necessary but your humor is much needed as well. Intrigued to see where this goes!!
Ninja Theory did a ton of research on mental health and the brain for this and the sequel. They just put out a 23min video about it on their channel. It's super interesting, and you can tell that they really care about the subject matter. I highly recommend watching it, but it contains spoilers for this game. So you'd probably want to wait until after John finishes his playthrough. Haha
That Arthur song truly is a banger
i think there is a making off vlog from ninja theory where the actress says how she became the actress. she was just a student from germany wanting to make the social media and the boss coming in asking like " can you make a stand in while we find the real actress for senua?"
I bothered to translate the runes on the first runestone (in red).
Turns out it's written in plain english just with runes as letters:
Seek Helas truth in mirrors. Gods betray us. Unmask fear.
Wow it's really disorienting and stressful to hear so many voices. The only thing that was kinda cute I guess was when the voices cheered her on during the fight.
Oh i love this game!!! Can't wait to see what you think of it
I don't know if in whas the time or what but when I got to the end, with the song and all I cried my eyes out. Superb game.
I still listen to the song. Its amazing and makes me emotional every time
Definitely going to play this. First time I heard of it and the intro to it just pulled me in. Looking forward to more. After hearing the stakes, the combat is kind of nerve wracking to watch lol. (Not me suddenly yelling FUCK HIM UP during that last fight and scaring tf out of my Guinea pigs so they’re chattering at me lol. Sorry guys.)
John I think the only collectibles in this game are those lore stones and iirc they affect the ending , I don't remember if it's to unlock an extra cutscene or an extended version of the ending but either way that's all they do it's up to you if you wanna look for them , they aren't too far from the critical path for the most part so you might find most of them as you go thru the game. I hope you like this one this game is great I'm hyped for the sequel.
A very strange, but good game. Not for everyone but I think you’ll like it John!
I wish John would play dave the diver, ask gabbs it's an amazing game! Never heard of it until it hit ps plus and I'm so glad I tried it out it is by far somehow 2.5 d game in 2024 cracked my favorite of all time list. The game is something I know John would love since he liked dredge so much and there is also a dlc tie in to dredge in it and it's pretty cool
I know you just posted this but I can't contain my excitement: I'M SO HAPPY TO SEE YOU PLAY THIS AHHHH
Use Focus in battle John you use it when your blue thing lights up so you can slow them makes things easier 🙂
YEEEES, while this is not Control this is also an amazing game which i am excited to see you play it
Ahhhh, so excited! I can't wait to see you play this! Omg! I adored heavenly sword and then this came out by the same people and it was fantastic. Oh my gosh they just can do no wrong in my eyes. I'm so excited to see you play through this!
oooh, i'm not sure if i've ever heard of this game before! sounds interesting.
Now that Arthur song is stuck in my head