Publisher Nacon and developer Rogue Factor have officially unveiled a seven-minute gameplay video for Hell Is Us, giving players their first extensive look at the game’s mechanics and world design. Set to release on September 4, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, the game presents an intense action-adventure experience set in a war-torn nation plagued by supernatural forces. Unlike many modern titles, Hell Is Us takes a bold approach by eliminating traditional maps and quest markers, requiring players to navigate the world using observation and intuition.
Players will take on the role of Rémi, a United Nations peacekeeper drawn to the conflict-ridden land of Hadea in search of answers about his past. A mysterious calamity has turned the region into a battleground where monstrous entities roam freely, impervious to conventional firearms. The protagonist is equipped with an arsenal of melee weapons such as swords, spears, and axes, as well as a highly advanced drone companion that plays a key role in both exploration and combat. The game’s semi-open world is designed to encourage discovery, rewarding those who piece together the environment’s many mysteries.
Gameplay and Combat Mechanics
The combat system in Hell Is Us has a deliberate and strategic feel, with movement and attack patterns reminiscent of a methodical melee experience. Strikes require precision, and enemy encounters demand careful positioning and timing. The game’s slower, tactical approach to combat heightens the tension, making each battle feel meaningful rather than rushed. If I had to think this game was like something else, Elden Ring is how the short combat scenes feel like the gameplay might be most like.
Outside of combat, movement within the world shifts depending on the environment. In open landscapes and underground areas, the protagonist moves freely and fluidly, enhancing the sense of adventure. However, in cities and safer zones, movement appears to slow, forcing players to engage with the world in a more deliberate manner. This difference in pacing could serve to create a stronger contrast between action and exploration, though how this affects overall gameplay remains to be seen.
The drone companion stands out as one of the game’s most intriguing features. I have to say, I thought a Helldivers 2 Dog just landed on his shoulder to recharge, when I saw the drones flight capabilities. I do get the feeling it would be picking up any guns to help fight off enemies but we can dream. It appears to function as a scanner, assisting in uncovering hidden threats and possibly aiding in puzzle-solving. It plays a vital role in exploration but does not overshadow the player’s own investigative skills, reinforcing the game’s theme of self-guided discovery.
Hell Pods – A Foreboding Presence
One of the most ominous elements of Hell Is Us is the appearance of massive dark spheres scattered throughout the world, dubbed Hell Pods. NPCs react to these zones with palpable fear, indicating that these areas house the greatest threats in the game. These regions may serve as high-risk zones players must clear or navigate strategically. What remains uncertain is whether these areas can be permanently rid of their dangers or if threats will persist, adding to the game’s sense of unease.
The world design strongly reinforces an atmosphere of dread. The abandoned landscapes, eerie lighting, and detailed interior spaces work together to create an unsettling environment. Every location feels intentionally crafted to immerse the player in a setting that is both beautiful and deeply unnerving.
Atmosphere and Narrative Tension
Beyond its gameplay mechanics, Hell Is Us distinguishes itself with a strong commitment to atmospheric storytelling. The developers have opted for a minimalistic HUD, which enhances the sense of immersion. Players must rely on environmental cues, dialogue, and exploration rather than following on-screen objectives.
The world of Hell Is Us feels deeply lived-in, with ruined cities and desolate landscapes telling stories of past devastation. The supernatural elements, rather than feeling out of place, blend seamlessly into this setting, making for an experience that feels grounded yet mysterious. The enemy designs further add to this eerie quality, with one particular antagonist bearing a resemblance to unsettling creatures from dark psychological horror media.
Final Thoughts
Hell Is Us is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing action-adventure titles of 2025. It blends methodical melee combat with a richly atmospheric world that encourages exploration. The lack of conventional guidance tools forces players to engage with the world in a more organic way, which could set it apart from other open-world experiences. The presence of Hell Pods, the unsettling NPC reactions, and the game’s approach to movement and combat suggest a carefully crafted experience that prioritizes tension and discovery.
With its unique approach to storytelling, world design, and combat, Hell Is Us has the potential to leave a lasting impact. As the release date draws nearer, more details will likely emerge, but based on what has been revealed so far, this is definitely a title to keep an eye on in 2025.
