Key information
Hellraiser: Revival, developed by Saber Serbia, offers a mixed experience that leans heavily into action rather than the expected atmospheric horror. The narrative follows Aidan, who accidentally summons Cenobites using the Genesis Configuration, leading to a journey across dimensions. While the premise fits the franchise, the gameplay feels disconnected from the source material's tone.
The mechanics resemble a fast-paced shooter or action game rather than a survival-horror title. Players utilize breakable melee weapons and firearms, including specialized ammunition like dragon's breath shells. Combat is described as satisfying and strategic, featuring telekinetic abilities via the Genesis Configuration, yet the reviewer notes these elements feel more like John Wick or Call of Duty than a Clive Barker adaptation.
The reviewer highlights significant flaws, including repetitive obstacle courses that resemble platforming games and predictable chase sequences that lose their impact over time. Furthermore, the game's sexualized aesthetic is criticized as occasionally adolescent, and the reliance on Unreal Engine 5 leads to noticeable shader loading issues.
Despite these shortcomings, the artistic direction is praised as sublime, effectively capturing the scale of the Leviathan's dimension. While the game struggles to maintain its horror identity, it showcases Saber Serbia's potential for future projects, suggesting the studio may evolve similarly to Teyon after further refinement.
