Ninja Theory is back in the spotlight with Hellblade 2. The sequel builds on its 2017 predecessor in many ways while retaining elements that made it shine in the first place.

With an entirely new setting to explore in Iceland, Senua’s story continues as she seeks revenge against the Vikings who brought chaos into her life. And she is a truly terrifying adversary.

5 Tips and Tricks to Make Hellblade 2 a Walk in the Park

However, Iceland’s many enemies are more than a match for her improved skills, and it could make sense to do a little homework before embarking on your journey to redemption. Without further ado, let’s dive into a few things you should know before you dive into Hellblade 2.

5. Headphones Are Your Best Friends

Just like the first game, Hellblade 2’s audio design forms an important part of its gameplay loop. Using the best pair of headphones you have can make a world of difference in both combat and exploration. This is because the voices in Senua’s head often call out to her when there is a threat or point of interest nearby. Indeed, the voices are nearly all the help she gets in Iceland, and heeding their words is in your best interests.

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Turn up the volume on your TV or speakers in case you don’t have a good pair close at hand.

4. Nail Down Parry Timings

Parrying in Hellblade 2 can be a mixed bag. It can be difficult to time your parries properly, but waiting until the last possible second should help. The parry only works if you trigger it right before the moment an enemy weapon makes contact with Senua.

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Failure to nail down this timing means that fights go on for longer. There are basic enemies who can be opened up for an instant kill with a parry, making it invaluable in controlling crowds and keeping your foes off balance. Parrying is also the most effective way with which you can interrupt enemy combos, making it a necessary skill for survival.

3. Keep a Sharp Eye on Your Enemies’ Weapons in Combat

While in combat, Senua can easily identify the ideal course of action to take in response to an enemy’s attacks. If their weapon flashes white, the incoming attack can be blocked or parried. A red flash on their weapon means that the next attack can be blocked but will leave Senua staggered for a short period and open to attacks. If the enemy’s body flashes red, the incoming attack is unblockable, and Senua must dodge out of the way to avoid damage.

Paying attention to these cues and internalizing them can improve your combat skills in Hellblade 2 to a large extent and allow you to ease into the flow of combat without breaking a sweat.

2. Look for White Chalk Markings While Exploring

While progressing through a level, white chalk markings typically mark a point of interest that could lead you to a nearby secret or collectible. They could also be the path forward in areas where Senua doesn’t seem sure of what to do. These markings could be on doors, ledges, crawl spaces, and more, so keeping an eye out for them is sure to nudge Senua toward her next objective or reward.

Note that collectibles are automatically tracked, with each one being easily identifiable as they appear in order. For instance, the Lorestangir are tracked by symbols linked to each one on the post. If you find a few symbols that do not light up after you discover a new one, a bit of backtracking may be in order.

1. Don’t Neglect Your Focus

Senua quickly gains the ability to use Focus in combat. It slows down time enough for Senua to land a series of quick blows while also allowing her to get out of tricky situations. In the event that she is knocked down after taking too much damage, she could use Focus to dodge a killing blow, allowing her to stay in the fight. It is useful considering that Permadeath is a part of Hellblade 2.

The mirror Senua acquires is useful in tracking the amount of Focus at your disposal, with the white circle around it representing how much Focus she has accumulated.

With these tips guiding your way, Senua is sure to have an easier time in Iceland as she carves a path of destruction toward those who wronged her. For more assistance with Hellblade 2, be sure to check out our exclusive guides and see Senua’s Saga through to its end.