In 2025, the gaming market witnessed a strong resurgence of the third-person action-adventure genre. One of the most prominent names is HELL IS US – a game developed by Rogue Factor and published by Nacon. This is not just a simple action game, but also a work of art rich in metaphor, profound and unique in its storytelling.
Plot
HELL IS US puts players in the role of a soldier returning to his homeland after many years of war. However, what awaits him is not a welcome or peace, but a land that is blocked off, full of strange and aggressive supernatural entities. The storytelling style of the game is reminiscent of Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding, where players are forced to explore and reflect to understand the deeper meanings behind.
The game does not provide much explanation – a bold yet effective approach. This ambiguity stimulates the curiosity and sense of adventure of the players, making HELL IS US one of the most worth-experiencing action games of 2025.
Gameplay – A perfect blend of action and exploration
Unique Combat System
The gameplay in HELL IS US is a combination of close combat and open-world exploration. The unique aspect is that you cannot use guns – modern weapons are ineffective against supernatural creatures. Instead, you use ancient weapons such as swords, axes, and spears to fight.
Battles require patience, reflexes, and strategy. You need to learn how to read enemy behavior, leverage the environment, and choose the right moment to strike. The combat system is reminiscent of Dark Souls, but it is simplified to appeal to a wider audience.
Explore The Open World
The world of HELL IS US is vast, eerily beautiful, and full of mystery. Each area has its own story, with symbols and clues guiding you toward the terrifying secrets hidden behind the veil of reality. There are no mini-maps, no waypoints—just you, a compass, and your instincts.
The minimalist interface enhances immersion, making every adventure feel authentic and memorable. This is a major plus for those who love open-world RPGs with a strong emphasis on exploration and deep reflection.
Graphics and sound
HELL IS US uses Unreal Engine 5 to create a world that is both beautiful and haunting. The dark tones, strong contrasts in lighting, and surreal environmental design all come together to craft a cinematic and artistic experience.
Each creature in the game is designed in an abstract style, making it difficult for players to clearly distinguish the boundaries between humans, monsters, and machines. This sense of confusion is intentional—an effort by the developers to bring players closer to their own inner ‘hell’ than ever before.
HELL IS US is scarce, but whenever it plays, it leaves a profound impression. Ambient sounds like the wind, footsteps, and heavy breathing during combat are meticulously crafted, all contributing to an atmosphere of tension and gloom.
HELL IS US is not an easily accessible game. It demands patience, curiosity, and the ability to reflect from the player. But if you’re willing to step into a world where nothing is certain—where pain and inner torment manifest clearly with every step—then this is the game for you.
