Ninja Theory is expanding its team, actively seeking senior combat system designers with Unreal Engine 5 expertise and a proven track record in crafting compelling boss fights. This hiring spree strongly suggests significant improvements to the combat system are underway for their next project, potentially a Hellblade sequel or an entirely new IP.
The focus is on creating more diverse, intricate, and dynamic combat encounters that react to environmental factors. While the Hellblade series boasts impressive combat choreography, battles have been criticized for linearity and repetition. The new system aims to address this, introducing complex enemy interactions and ensuring each fight feels unique and memorable. The ambition seems to be a system akin to Dark Messiah of Might and Magic, where environmental objects, location specifics, weaponry, and character abilities combine to create vastly different combat experiences each time.