Hell Is Us Xbox Reviews: What Critics Are Saying About the New RPG

The highly anticipated action-RPG Hell Is Us has been on the radar of many Xbox fans for months, and the wait is finally almost over. The game is set to launch on September 4th, and ahead of release, critics have already shared their first impressions. If you’re wondering whether this ambitious RPG is worth your time, we’ve rounded up the early reviews to give you a clear picture.

The verdict so far? Mostly positive. Critics are praising the game’s rich atmosphere, deep lore, and unique approach to exploration. At the same time, some reviews point out flaws in combat design and accessibility. Here’s a breakdown of what different outlets are saying about Hell Is Us.

Push Square – 9/10

Push Square was impressed with how Hell Is Us handles worldbuilding and exploration. The review highlights the game’s dense lore and intricate level design, calling it “a captivating experience.” The mix of tough combat and challenging puzzles keeps players on their toes, while the century-spanning mystery at the heart of the story pushes you to keep digging deeper.

The outlet does caution that the game’s “hands-off” approach won’t appeal to everyone, but fans of story-driven RPGs with mystery and atmosphere will find plenty to love here.

PlayStation Universe – 9/10

PlayStation Universe praised the game’s narrative depth, calling it “a game about the depravity of humanity and the consequences of our actions.” The review highlights how every detail, from environmental storytelling to character design, feels intentional and carefully crafted.

While some players may struggle due to the lack of clear guidance, PSU believes that exploration is exactly what makes the game shine. The combat system is also noted as fun and versatile, though the lack of enemy variety is a drawback.

Checkpoint Gaming – 8.5/10

Checkpoint Gaming described Hell Is Us as an “impressive milestone for a small team of developers.” While the combat is considered somewhat simple and traversal mechanics a little shallow, the game’s overall vision is clear and cohesive.

One standout aspect for Checkpoint is Hadea, the fictional setting where the game takes place. They argue that few video game worlds feel this immersive and believable, especially for a debut title. The way the game handles its themes also earned praise, making it a strong recommendation for RPG fans.

GamesRadar – 8/10

GamesRadar’s review calls the world of Hell Is Us “harsh” yet rewarding. The sense of achievement from solving puzzles and navigating a game that doesn’t hold your hand is a big plus. Although frustrating moments do appear, they’re rare enough that the overall enjoyment remains intact.

GamingTrend – 7.5/10

GamingTrend took a more cautious approach, noting that Hell Is Us won’t be for everyone. Players who like clear objectives and linear progression may find themselves frustrated by its open-ended structure. Much of the game involves piecing together clues and figuring out what to do next, which could feel overwhelming for some.

That said, GamingTrend also praised the game for respecting player intelligence and making bold design choices, something not often seen in today’s mainstream RPGs.

GameSpot – 7/10

GameSpot’s review acknowledges that Hell Is Us might not be as groundbreaking as originally promised, but it still delivers surprises until the very end. For a first attempt at this kind of third-person action RPG, developer Rogue Factor has created a solid foundation.

Eurogamer – 3/5

Eurogamer’s review sits in the middle, with a 3 out of 5 score. The reviewer admitted to struggling with quests and remembering clues, but still found the overall experience gripping.

What stood out most was the atmosphere. Whether it’s a war-torn townscape covered in bomb dust, a medieval tomb filled with mystical secrets, or a haunting facility echoing with screams, Hell Is Us excels in worldbuilding and discovery. According to Eurogamer, this focus on mood and exploration is what makes the game unique compared to many modern RPGs.

Review Scores at a Glance

Push Square: 9/10
PlayStation Universe: 9/10
Checkpoint Gaming: 8.5/10
GamesRadar: 8/10
GamingTrend: 7.5/10
GameSpot: 7/10
Eurogamer: 3/5

Across the board, reviewers agree that Hell Is Us is ambitious, immersive, and atmospheric, though not always easy to navigate.

Metacritic and OpenCritic Scores

As of now, Hell Is Us holds a Metacritic rating of 79 and an OpenCritic score of 82. These scores suggest that while the game isn’t flawless, it’s well above average and worth a closer look for RPG enthusiasts.

Try It Yourself

If you’d rather form your own opinion, the good news is that Hell Is Us already has a free Xbox demo available on the Microsoft Store. With its official release set for September 4th, now’s the perfect time to test it out and see if this mysterious new RPG deserves a place in your library.

Final Thoughts

Hell Is Us may not be the most accessible RPG of 2025, but it’s shaping up to be one of the most thought-provoking. Its emphasis on mystery, exploration, and atmosphere sets it apart from the more guided experiences dominating today’s market. Whether you’re drawn in by the challenging combat, the puzzle-solving, or simply the haunting world of Hadea, Hell Is Us looks like a game that will leave a lasting impression.