Ninja Theory’s Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 is set to be a controversial release as the latest Xbox exclusive. However, one aspect that won’t spark debate is the game’s stunning photo mode.
Though not mentioned in our Hellblade 2 review, Ninja Theory provides fans with a brilliant photo mode to capture gorgeous screenshots of the game’s characters, environments, and set pieces.
In recent years, detailed photo modes have become a must for new AAA games. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Forza Horizon 5, and Horizon Forbidden West all feature photo modes, but none allow you to snap shots quite like Hellblade 2.
When you learn how to enter photo mode in Hellblade 2, you’ll quickly realize that this addition is fantastically executed. You can move the virtual camera in any situation to capture scenes from new angles, add lights, turn on real-time effects, and choose from a selection of cinematic frames.
Hellblade’s ability to move the camera in almost any cutscene lets you snap some truly stunning shots. With the Xbox exclusive boasting eye-watering beauty and the most realistic character models we’ve ever seen, you can frame incredibly realistic shots or take advantage of the game’s magical events to create jaw-dropping pictures.
In addition to capturing still frames of pure beauty, Hellblade 2’s photo mode lets you see more than just the normal frame of Ninja Theory’s expertly crafted adventure. You can move around and explore the background. For example, in the game’s opening shot, you can move the camera to see Senua tied up in the back of the ship.
While many photo modes are extremely restrictive, Hellblade 2’s photo mode offers a liberating experience. In fact, it’s more freeing than the game itself, as Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 follows a very linear progression.
However, Hellblade 2’s photo mode isn’t perfect, and there are clear reasons for its concessions. For instance, unlike in Starfield and Spider-Man, you can’t change Senua’s expression in photo mode. If she’s mid-animation and one eye is slightly closed, you’ll need to close photo mode and re-open it, hoping the pose is still good.
It’s evident why this limitation exists. Hellblade 2 features some grim scenes where Senua shouldn’t be smiling, and some gamers might exploit this to create unsettling scenes. While an unfortunate omission, it doesn’t detract significantly from an otherwise perfect photo mode.