Hellsplit: Arena
- September 9, 2019
- Deep Type Games
- 5h median play time
Get on Steam"Hellsplit: Arena" is a medieval fantasy-themed, online multiplayer game that pits players against each other in brutal melee combat. Choose from a variety of weapons and characters, and battle it out in a range of environments, from grim fortresses to mystical forests. With intense, fast-paced action and a focus on skill and strategy, "Hellsplit: Arena" is a must-play for fans of melee combat games.
PC
Virtual Reality
Windows
Oculus Rift
PlayStation
PlayStation VR2
Windows Mixed Reality
Reviews
- graphics316 mentions
- 66 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are widely praised for their high quality, stunning visuals, and realistic gore effects, often described as some of the best seen in VR titles. However, many users also report significant optimization issues, leading to performance problems on lower-end systems, and a lack of graphical settings limits customization. Overall, while the graphics are a standout feature, they are sometimes marred by technical shortcomings that affect gameplay experience.
“The graphics are amazing and the gameplay is great.”
“Graphics are stunning, and probably the most well-optimized game I've played in VR.”
“The graphics are beautiful, and the mechanics are awesome.”
“Game's graphics look like shit, and it runs like shit.”
“The graphics are a little rough but the real issue for me was a headache after 20 minutes.”
“No chance to change graphical settings, thus the game runs like liquid trash.”
- gameplay234 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 52 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game is a mixed bag, with many players praising its unique mechanics, such as dismemberment and weapon variety, alongside smooth and satisfying combat. However, criticisms arise regarding repetitive gameplay loops, bugs, and a lack of depth, particularly in the absence of multiplayer options and a more engaging progression system. Overall, while the game offers enjoyable moments and impressive graphics, it struggles with consistency and depth, leaving some players wanting more.
“The gameplay is so smooth and satisfying.”
“This game is a pure masterpiece; the weight mechanics are realistic, and it actually feels like you're holding a weapon.”
“The weights are well-tuned, the swordplay is rewarding, the three enemy types are unique to fight, and the parrying mechanic is straight-up addicting.”
“The combat doesn't carry much weight to it and the gameplay is just fighting a few waves of enemies, beat the level and earn gold, buy a longer sword or heavier weapon, repeat.”
“Hits that should land don't, gameplay is repetitive, the bosses are all harder versions of the last one, and the concept is so promising but the execution comes off as if the devs were on their last inch of sanity.”
“As it stands, it's an alright game with some interesting ideas, but with repetitive gameplay, major bugs, and such a small selection of areas, it's simply in a very rough state right now.”
- story188 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 73 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The story in the game is generally considered weak and generic, often serving merely as a backdrop for combat rather than a compelling narrative. While some players appreciate the progression and challenge it offers, many find the missions repetitive and lacking depth, with a desire for a more engaging storyline and longer campaign. Overall, the gameplay is praised, but the story fails to captivate or provide significant replay value.
“The story was good; when I finished it, I thought the ending of the hardcore mode would be the same as the normal campaign, but I was proved wrong.”
“It's a full-on sandbox, while Hellsplit VR has a campaign with a well-thought-out story and lore, along with boss fights.”
“Great graphics, the story mode is pretty entertaining, and the fighting is pretty smooth; I like the details and aspects of the battles.”
“The story is weak; it's one of those that is just there to give you a reason for killing the undead.”
“The story is generic and short, but the gameplay is very fun.”
“The story is very mediocre and doesn't really make a whole load of sense.”
- optimization44 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players experiencing severe performance issues, including lag and freezing, even on high-end systems. While a few users reported smooth gameplay and good performance, particularly with specific hardware setups, many others noted that the game struggles with multiple enemies on screen and has long load times. Overall, the game appears to require further optimization to ensure a consistent and enjoyable experience across various hardware configurations.
“Graphics are absolutely gorgeous, and probably the most well-optimized game I've played in VR.”
“Performance is top notch, much better than Blade & Sorcery (B&S) and many much worse looking games.”
“I had great performance using a 2080 Super with i7.”
“Very good game, and already has a good campaign; however, the optimization of the game is downright horrible. Even on the lowest possible settings, I still lag. More than two enemies will destroy my computer, and my gaming computer can handle a lot. Additionally, nothing is outright clear as to what you're meant to do, specifically installing mods. When I first started playing, I installed at least five mods but was confused and assumed they would also show up in the campaign.”
“The game is also horribly unoptimized. Whereas games that should be more graphically demanding give me great framerate and frametime, this is the one game that just runs like crap.”
“It's poorly optimized (extremely long load times, and no, it's not hardware issues) and a worse and less interactive Blade and Sorcery, and costs more too. Do not buy.”
- stability44 mentions
- 5 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 95 % negative mentions
Overall, the stability of the game is a mixed bag, with many users reporting frequent bugs, glitches, and performance issues, particularly during combat and loading times. While some players have experienced smooth gameplay and commend the developers for ongoing fixes, others find the game frustratingly unresponsive and crash-prone. Despite these issues, many still appreciate the game's potential and engaging mechanics, suggesting that it may improve with future updates.
“Game runs great on my GPU with the right settings enabled, really fun slicing off heads and everything else.”
“Lots of fun, no glitches or slowdowns - runs great.”
“This game is very buggy, but the devs do good work on fixing as many as they can, and keep the game updated.”
“I love arena fighting games, I can overlook a lot of these gameplay problems but the amount of times it crashes and freezes in the short amount of time I played it is too much for me.”
“Because there is an abundance of glitches that are frequent and prevalent that make it really frustrating sometimes.”
- humor34 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is largely derived from its slapstick elements, such as comical enemy interactions, absurd physics, and the absurdity of using unconventional weapons like bananas to defeat zombies. Players find joy in the game's quirky mechanics and funny moments, although some feel that the humor can become repetitive over time. Overall, the game is praised for its ability to elicit laughter through its chaotic and entertaining combat scenarios.
“When you shoot your arrow and nail a still living zombie against a wall... hilarious!”
“The combat is fun and intense, with some fights being very interesting in how they play out. I can't name a more funny thing than throwing a banana peel at the ground and tripping this undead bag of bones, then beating them mercilessly with my club.”
“Easily the most funny game I've ever played.”
- replayability34 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is a mixed bag, with some players finding it incredibly engaging due to its weapon variety and combat mechanics, while others criticize its lack of content and linearity, leading to burnout after a few hours. Many reviewers express a desire for mod support and additional game modes to enhance replay value, as the current offerings feel limited. Overall, while there are enjoyable aspects that encourage repeated play, significant improvements are needed to sustain long-term interest.
“Overall, this game does succeed in what it sets out to do, which is create a replayable arena game with a lot of weapon variety and flashy visuals/sword fighting.”
“Tons of replay value and so many ways to implement different variations for different opponents.”
“Very enjoyable and replayable; it's worth the price.”
“Right now the sounds do not sound as good and as satisfying as they could be and for now, mod support is not there, which makes the game less replayable.”
“Tl;dr game feels like a demo, no replay value at all, every positive review averages 4-5 hours then they burn out.”
“The game is barely replayable, not much of a reason to go back through it since end game is just an arm flail fest.”
- grinding21 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 57 % negative mentions
The reviews indicate that grinding is a significant aspect of the game, with many players finding it tedious and repetitive, especially in the later stages where combat becomes monotonous. While some players note that grinding can be avoided to some extent, others emphasize that it can feel overwhelming and time-consuming, particularly when facing armored enemies. Overall, the consensus is that while the game starts off enjoyable, it quickly devolves into a grind-heavy experience that detracts from the initial fun.
“Decent grinding.”
“A lot of grinding.”
“A bit grindy... sometimes.”
“The whole game is fighting in chamber arenas, which get boring and tedious very quickly.”
“First 25% of the game is pretty good, then after that... it's bad and grindy.”
“Really grindy game, offers little to no entertainment, no unique features, just repeatedly smack zombies.”
- music14 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the battle-themed tracks and their ability to enhance the atmosphere, while others criticize the lack of variety and low-quality sound effects. Overall, while the music can set the mood effectively, many feel it falls short in terms of depth and quality.
“The music, the way the weapons work were just the frosting on a cake.”
“The battle-themed music is nice, though could do with more variation.”
“The background music was subtle but definitely got you in that Mortal Kombat sort of mood.”
“Expected a lot more settings besides graphics and music.”
“Every single throat you cut will sound the same and the combat music sounds like it's being played through a styrofoam cup.”
“It feels cheap and low quality, as do the sound effects and music.”
- atmosphere13 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 31 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its impressive graphics and immersive, brutal environment, contributing to a strong sense of engagement. However, some players feel that certain elements, like the Halloween-themed enemies, detract from the overall tone. While the atmosphere is generally considered a highlight, there are calls for more varied gameplay elements to enhance the experience further.
“The atmosphere is unmatched.”
“Love the atmosphere and the enemy visuals.”
“Overall this game is absolutely astonishing with amazing atmosphere, gruesome combat, charismatic community manager and a dedicated dev team, I have hope and trust this game will get even better over time.”
“The first mission was in a graveyard where zombies with pumpkin heads spawned, and while I get that it was the Halloween event, it still killed the atmosphere because they looked ridiculous.”
“There is no light atmosphere to speak of; it is all bland, flat, and just ugly as sin.”
- emotional7 mentions
- 86 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
Players express frustration with the emotional disconnect caused by gameplay mechanics, such as unresponsive attacks and confusing enemy interactions, which detract from the immersive experience. While some appreciate the game's gore and initial excitement, many feel let down by the lack of polish and engaging storytelling, leading to a sense of disappointment and disengagement. Overall, the emotional impact is undermined by technical issues and gameplay inconsistencies.
“The game is great; going from a massive blade and sorcery grind to this made me feel prepared at first.”
“So far the game barely plays like in the video. Attacks feel seriously gimped; I can't grab foes like in the videos. The first boss kills you without even touching you; he's on fire and hurts you from 10 feet away, with no indication of what's actually hurting you.”
