Hell is Us, an upcoming third-person action-adventure game, is giving console players an early chance to experience its eerie sci-fi world before its full release in early September. Developed under the direction of Jonathan Jaques-Belletete, known for his work as art director on the latest Deus Ex titles, Hell is Us promises a dark, atmospheric journey inspired by films like Alex Garland's Annihilation.
First unveiled in 2022 with a planned 2023 launch, Hell is Us faced delays but resurfaced this summer during Steam Next Fest. The PC-exclusive demo quickly gained traction, becoming one of the event's most downloaded and discussed demos. Its limited two-week availability left fans eager for more, especially with its focus on immersive exploration and a narrative that avoids traditional waypoint-driven progression.
Console Demo Set for August 12
Now, console players will get their hands on Hell is Us with a demo arriving on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S on August 12. This announcement was shared via the game’s official social media channels. While it's not confirmed if this demo mirrors the PC version from Steam Next Fest, players can expect a substantial glimpse into the game, offering around 1-2 hours of gameplay.
One of the core design philosophies of Hell is Us is encouraging players to navigate its unsettling world without the aid of intrusive HUD elements or quest markers, making exploration a central gameplay feature. This hands-on demo will provide console users an early opportunity to experience this unique design approach before the game's $60 release.
A Busy Release Window Awaits
Hell is Us will be launching in a crowded gaming season. August’s final weeks are stacked with major titles, including Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Lost Soul Aside, Gears of War: Reloaded, and Black Myth: Wukong. Additionally, Helldivers 2 will also make its debut on Xbox. Not long after, Borderlands 4 is set to drop on September 12, followed by highly anticipated horror titles like Dying Light: The Beast and Silent Hill F later in the month.
Despite the intense competition, Hell is Us aims to carve out its niche with its haunting sci-fi aesthetic and emphasis on organic world exploration. The upcoming console demo may just be the push it needs to capture a dedicated audience ahead of its launch.
