Hell Is Us Unveils New Gameplay Footage Before Fall Launch

Hell is Us brings a fresh approach to exploration by steering clear of those typical quest markers, urging players to trust their instincts instead. It blends intense combat with the thrill of discovery in a world ravaged by war and teeming with mysterious creatures. There’s also a delightful twist with secondary investigations that sprinkle in puzzles and unexpected rewards, adding depth to the story and gameplay alike.

Recently, the game’s new trailer shed more light on what makes its investigation mechanics so intriguing. Hell Is Us caught everyone’s eye at PlayStation’s State of Play events. While many have likened it to Souls-like games due to its third-person view and exploration-heavy style, developer Rogue Factor seems to be crafting its own unique identity with an emotionally charged narrative, compelling battles, and fulfilling exploration.

Gamers have been eagerly awaiting Hell Is Us ever since it was announced in 2022 with a slated 2023 release. The game immerses players in a war-torn setting where the protagonist must piece together an overarching mystery. Many were instantly drawn to the project, especially with Jonathan Jacques-Belletête, the art director of Deus Ex: Human Revolution, onboard and the game’s focus on an old-school ethos—encouraging players to solve challenges without hand-holding.

Nacon, the publisher of Hell Is Us, dropped an extended gameplay trailer giving fans a closer look at the game’s investigation dynamics. Rogue Factor, along with creative director Jacques-Belletête, emphasizes that investigation intertwines deeply with the gameplay loop—a notion vividly illustrated in the video. It shows the protagonist Rémi exploring the intricacies of his hometown Jova.

As Rémi seeks directions to Jova from a local, the exploration sequence kicks off. He learns that travel to the Acosa Marshes might require a vehicle. Much like beloved classics such as Bloodborne, the game adopts what Jacques-Belletête describes as a “player plattering” approach, eschewing quest markers in favor of contextual hints within the environment. Players are left to chart their course in this expansive world.

In a captivating segment, Rémi approaches Rebecca to ask about the whereabouts of Jova’s Blacksmith, only to discover he might have departed with some Peacekeepers. Jacques-Belletête then showcases the secondary investigations, highlighting how these segments offer puzzles leading to surprising rewards. Though optional, they add fascinating layers to the experience. As the scene unfolds, Rémi encounters a villager needing milk rations for her infant—a touch that hints at rich hidden lore and offers players more to engage with as the much-anticipated September 4 release date nears.

Set in a landscape divided by civil war and haunted by supernatural foes, Hell is Us challenges players to adapt. Armed with a trusty drone and ancient weapons, gamers must navigate these perilous lands and unravel the mysteries behind their monstrous inhabitants. This thrilling third-person adventure delivers a unique, no-hand-holding experience that beckons players to follow their instincts. With an arsenal including swords, spears, and axes uniquely designed for these foes, mastering combat and utilizing your drone is key to surviving. As the September 4, 2025 release date draws closer, anticipation mounts for a title promising both action-packed and immersive exploration.