Ninja Theory is reportedly pivoting its development efforts from the experimental game Project Mara to a new installment in the Hellblade series. This news comes from Jez Corden, an editor at Windows Central, who shared insights during a recent episode of the Xbox Two podcast.
Corden indicated that the next Hellblade title, tentatively referred to as Hellblade 3, will be “more interactive” than its predecessors. He stated, “From what I understand, the next game is Hellblade 3, and it’s going to be a bit more interactive than Hellblade 1 and 2.” This suggests that Ninja Theory aims to enhance player engagement and broaden the game’s appeal beyond the existing fan base.
Project Mara Development Status
In a significant shift, Corden also mentioned that Ninja Theory is no longer actively developing Project Mara, which was first unveiled in 2020 alongside Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II. He described Project Mara as more of a concept than a fully-fledged game, stating, “You guys shouldn’t expect Project Mara to be a thing. It might be something they’re working on eventually, but it is not a game currently being worked on at Ninja Theory.”
The studio had previously showcased the technology intended for Project Mara in 2021, but no gameplay footage was presented. This raises questions about the future of the project and whether it may return to development at a later date.
Future of the Hellblade Series
Ninja Theory’s decision to focus on the upcoming Hellblade title aligns with the company’s recent activities. Reports from late 2024 suggested that Microsoft had already approved the next project following the release of Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II. As details about Hellblade 3 remain scarce, the anticipation surrounding the game continues to build within the gaming community.
While the exact release date and gameplay mechanics remain undisclosed, the shift to a more interactive experience indicates Ninja Theory’s commitment to evolving the Hellblade franchise. As fans await further announcements, the studio’s strategic changes highlight its ambition to enhance the gaming experience while navigating the challenges of development.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Ninja Theory’s focus on refining its flagship series may lead to exciting new directions for the Hellblade universe.
