Senua (Hellblade)

Senua is the player-character and protagonist of the video game Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, developed by Ninja Theory. She is a Pict warrior haunted by psychosis and trauma resulting from a devastating Viking raid on her village and the subsequent death of her lover, Dillion. Throughout the game, players navigate Senua's internal struggles and distorted perceptions of reality as she journeys to Helheim, the Norse underworld, to retrieve Dillion's soul from the goddess Hela.

Senua's psychosis manifests in auditory and visual hallucinations. She is constantly tormented by "Furies," voices in her head that offer conflicting advice, commentary, and warnings. These voices represent different aspects of her mental state, including anxiety, fear, and doubt. Her visual hallucinations distort the environment, creating illusions and manipulating her perception of space and time. These symptoms are not presented as mere obstacles but as integral aspects of Senua's experience and character.

The game's portrayal of Senua's mental illness is based on extensive consultation with neuroscientists, mental health specialists, and individuals who experience psychosis. Ninja Theory aimed to create a realistic and respectful depiction of mental health challenges, rather than a sensationalized or stereotypical portrayal. The game explores themes of trauma, grief, mental illness, and the power of belief.

Senua's character design and performance are crucial to the game's success. Her motion capture and voice acting, performed by Melina Juergens, are widely praised for their authenticity and emotional depth. Juergens underwent extensive training and research to understand and portray Senua's condition convincingly.

Ultimately, Senua's journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance. She must confront her inner demons and reconcile with her past to overcome the challenges she faces in Helheim. Her struggles resonate with players, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting individuals who experience mental health challenges.