5 Essential Tips You Should Know Before Starting the Hell is Us Game Guide

Developed by the acclaimed Montreal studio Rogue Factor, Hell is Us sets itself apart by refusing to coddle players. Abandoning typical open-world conventions, this game does not feature map markers or quest trackers, encouraging players to navigate using their instincts and environmental cues.

Before you embark on your journey, the game offers reminders about its distinctive approach, emphasizing self-discovery throughout the gameplay. However, there are key insights that could enhance your experience without detracting from the exhilarating mystery that lies at the heart of the adventure.

This guide aims to outline the five essential tips you need to know before diving into Hell is Us, all while preserving the sense of exploration that makes this game captivating.

5 Essentials to Consider Before Playing Hell is Us

1. Keep a Notebook and Pen Handy

Game screen with text Left: Warden of Grief and Right: Warden of Amazement above emblems, and an Esc BACK option. — Writing down details can save you time and frustration.

You don’t need to document every action or detail in an exhaustive manner, but having a notebook nearby can be invaluable. Record potential clues or puzzle pieces as you encounter them, especially since the intricate puzzle-solving aspect often takes precedence over combat. If you lack a photographic memory or constantly switch between the game and screenshots, a quick note can aid your progress significantly.

2. Puzzles Might Require Multiple Attempts

Large stone tower against a cloudy blue sky background. — Some puzzles must be revisited later in the game.

As you explore Hell is Us, you will encounter puzzles that are not solvable upon first encounter. Certain items or pieces of knowledge required to complete these challenges will be acquired later in your journey. Recognizing this can prevent you from getting stalled; simply make a note to revisit these areas when you’re equipped with the necessary tools.

With no clear map or quest markers, it can be challenging to discern what is critical for progressing the main narrative versus what is optional. Keeping a log of the puzzles you cannot currently solve can help you track back once you have the required knowledge or items.

3. Choose Abilities That Focus on Crowd Control

A dark armored figure faces white creatures in a flooded dungeon, with HELL IS US written in the corner. — Combat can be overwhelming without effective crowd control.

Your selection of weaponry in Hell is Us is versatile, allowing customization through four core emotions central to the game’s narrative. However, your success in combat will largely depend on how well you manage the rhythm of battle rather than simply optimizing your gear.

Instead of focusing solely on individual enemy engagements, you’ll often face groups of foes. While larger weapons like greatswords or polearms can aid in managing these encounters, area-of-effect abilities can tip the scales in your favor, enabling you to control larger crowds more effectively.

4. Engage in Conversations with Every NPC

Character with eye patch in candlelit room, text reads: VIGIL HEADQUARTERS What do you know about their headquarters? — Conversations often reveal crucial information for your quest.

The importance of dialogue with NPCs cannot be overstated. Interacting with each character can yield valuable insights into puzzles or story progression. Utilize all available questions to uncover necessary information that aids in your exploration.

The writing team has crafted each character with depth, making every encounter enriching. Additionally, trading items with NPCs can lead to beneficial exchanges. If uncertain about matching an item to the right character, it’s worth asking—after all, they will guide you if your offering isn’t needed.

5. Stay Observant in Your Surroundings

A mural with a sun and two snakes in a dark room displays options switch weapon and sheathe weapon at the bottom. — Vigilance in your environment can unveil hidden pathways and clues.

Hell is Us is designed with specific zones to explore, each carefully crafted to encourage a thorough examination of your environment. While noting down directions is beneficial, every area has been structured for natural navigation.

Effective exploration relies on constant vigilance—scan your surroundings for clues, absorb conversations, and note details. Each zone is designed to minimize the risk of becoming lost, unlike vast open-world experiences where missteps often lead to backtracking.

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