When I first saw the... Demo of hell is us When I started playing, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Just a game world, a few enemies – and yet there's much more to it than meets the eye. The demo is manageable at around 60 minutes, but it only covers the first part of the game. Nevertheless, you quickly get a feel for what players can expect: challenging combat, intensive exploration, and a world that emphasizes discovery.
Soulslike combat with its own unique touches
The combat system immediately reveals that hell is us It draws heavily on Soulslike games. Dodges, parries, blocks – all of these are present and feel precise. But the game also brings its own unique nuance. In addition to the classic stamina system, the health bar is closely linked to stamina. Taking damage not only reduces health but also stamina – and both can be restored through a special mechanic. This mix, in particular, ensures that combat remains dynamic and timing is crucial.
Another plus is the use of drones in combat. They allow you to stun opponents, creating strategic advantages. This opens up tactical possibilities that go beyond simple melee attacks. However, some aspects remain unclear: weapon skills seem to be almost entirely absent in the demo. The demo allows the use of two weapon types – sword and dual axes – but I couldn't find any skills for the weapons themselves. Whether these features will be added in the final game remains to be seen.
In terms of difficulty, it offers hell is us Flexibility. You can adjust the difficulty level individually, for example by increasing enemy health or adjusting your own damage taken. Even though I played on the highest difficulty level, I didn't reach my limits in the demo. Nevertheless, the combat is pleasantly fast, the weapons differ noticeably in speed and damage, and dual axes in particular are fun due to their speed. It has a bit of a... God of War, although not quite as sophisticated.
Exploration as the heart of the experience
Away from the fight, it shows hell is usIt's clear that this is a game that rewards exploration. The demo doesn't have a traditional marker or map in the true sense; only a compass helps with orientation. The developer emphasizes that players must rely heavily on their senses, meaning following sounds, visual cues, and so on. Those who venture out to explore will find side quests, hidden items, and small puzzles that require some thought. I spent some time examining every corner, following clues, and discovering treasures. It's precisely this freedom to play without constant instructions that conveys a genuine sense of discovery.
However, this approach also presents challenges. Players who pause the game for an extended period will need to reorient themselves, as there are no direct reference points. A traditional overview map only exists for fast travel between main areas. This can be frustrating for players who get lost easily – but for fans of exploration and the "lost-in-the-world" feeling, it's perfect.
Side quests are also cleverly integrated. For example, you meet an NPC who is missing a family heirloom. After finding and returning a specific item, you receive a reward – small rewards, but ones that noticeably enhance immersion. This system is strongly reminiscent of classic action RPGs, but offers enough originality to remain interesting.
The frequently repeating enemies, the interesting but occasionally monotonous soundtrack, and the sometimes simplistic mechanics are definite drawbacks. How these aspects will translate to the final game remains to be seen. The first hour of the demo primarily serves as an introduction and tutorial.
First Impressions
Overall, the demo leaves a lasting impression. hell is us Nevertheless, it leaves a positive impression. The game offers solid combat, creative deployment options like drones, and an open world that invites exploration. The lack of weapon skills and the somewhat confusing quest system are minor weaknesses that don't detract from the fun. Anyone who enjoys Soulslike games and adventure explorations should definitely keep an eye on it. hell is us toss.
Whether the finished game can maintain this balance between challenge and freedom remains to be seen. The demo whets the appetite for more, but also shows that the development team still has potential, particularly regarding the depth of the combat system and weapon skills. For fans of tactical combat and independent exploration, this preview version is a promising entry point.
Ultimately, the question remains: Will hell is us Will it manage to stand out from other Soulslike adventures, or will it remain just another game in a crowded genre? I'm personally eager to see the finished version.
Okay, I'm currently playing the demo, well, I don't know, maybe it'll be on sale. I find the trigger warning at the beginning funny, saying there are no markers or anything on the map. Lol, so you can get lost more often in the linear forest levels. ^^ Strange design decision.
Ah fuck, I was expecting more action and not something souls-like.
Well, try out the demo.