Game arrives on new console
Hell is Us has been released on Nintendo Switch 2, a year after its initial launch on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. The game removes traditional navigation aids, requiring players to rely on observation and memory.Gameplay philosophy divides players
Developed by Rogue Factor and Nacon, the game removes mini-maps, objective markers, and yellow arrows, forcing players to explore without clear guidance. This approach challenges players, especially in difficult sections.Setting and story
Set in the fictional country of Hadéa, the game follows Rémi, who returns to his childhood home to find his parents. The country is in civil war, and a supernatural disaster has introduced creatures called Hollow Walkers that are immune to modern weapons.Narrative structure
The story is revealed through dialogues, documents, and environmental clues. Players must piece together the narrative themselves, with some scenes highlighting human atrocities as more terrifying than the monsters.Navigation system
The game provides no detailed map or markers. Players must rely on dialogues, notes, and memory to find their way. Rémi has a compass, but the game does not indicate exact destinations, requiring players to identify landmarks and remember clues.Exploration challenges
While finding locations based on earlier hints can be rewarding, the lack of guidance can lead to frustration. Players may circle areas for extended periods, struggling to orient themselves due to similar-looking environments and limited visibility.Combat system
Combat involves light and heavy attacks, dodging, and endurance management. The system is influenced by FromSoftware but is more accessible, with adjustable difficulty. Rémi uses swords, axes, and spears, supported by a drone called KAPI.Weapon customization
Players can enhance weapons with properties like fear, altering their behavior in combat. This adds variety to the early gameplay, though the system remains limited in scope.Criticism of combat
Combat lacks variety, with repetitive encounters and enemies that often require the same tactics. While a recent update added ten new Hollow Walkers, the combat experience remains underwhelming compared to exploration and puzzles.Visuals and performance
The game uses Unreal Engine 5, but the Switch 2 port has limitations. Resolution and detail are reduced, and some environments look similar. The frame rate is generally stable in portable mode but drops in TV mode.Art direction and atmosphere
The dark environments, unsettling lighting, and mist contribute to the game's atmosphere. The contrast between realistic war settings and abstract Hollow Walkers gives the game a unique visual identity.Technical issues
Bugs have been reported, including interaction problems and crashes. A recent patch addresses some issues, but players should ensure they have the latest update before starting the game.Game length and content
The game offers around 30 to 40 hours of gameplay, including exploration, puzzles, and optional quests. Players who enjoy methodical and investigative play will find value in the experience.Sound and dialogue
The soundtrack and ambient sounds enhance the game's atmosphere. Dialogues are frequent and help understand the world, though they can become repetitive in some cases.Portability and screen limitations
The game is well-suited for portable play, allowing time to think and backtrack. However, the smaller screen can make it harder to spot environmental details, which is a drawback in a game that emphasizes observation.
