Ninja Theory Report: Project Mara Cancelled, Focus on Hellblade 3

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By Gaming News
13 January 2026 no comments
Senua returns as Ninja Theory reportedly shifts focus to a third installment 

Ninja Theory appears to be pivoting. New reports suggest the studio has shelved its experimental horror title, Project Mara, to focus entirely on the next chapter of Senua’s journey.

According to reliable insiders, Hellblade 3 is not only in the works but aims to fix the biggest criticism leveled at its predecessor: the gameplay.

 

Project Mara: From Concept to Cancelled

Announced back in 2020, Project Mara promised a “real-world representation of mental terror.” The studio built hype around its photorealistic apartment setting and deep psychological research. However, after years of silence, the project seems dead in the water.

Jez Corden of Windows Central dropped the news during the Xbox Two Podcast. He clarified that Project Mara remains strictly a concept and is not in active development.

“It’s not a game they are working on right now,” Corden stated. While he didn’t rule out a revival, the studio clearly moved resources elsewhere.

 

Hellblade 3: More Than Just a Movie?

The death of Project Mara signals the birth of Hellblade 3. Corden’s sources indicate this new entry will expand significantly on the franchise’s formula.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 launched in 2024 to critical acclaim for its visuals but divided players with its limited interactivity. It seems Ninja Theory heard the feedback loud and clear.

The rumors point to a sequel that is “more interactive” than the first two games. The goal is to broaden the franchise’s appeal by evolving it into a “proper game” rather than just a narrative experience.

Also learn about the launch of Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2: Enhanced Edition in August 2025!

 

Hellblade 3 Timeline and Teasers

Evidence of a third game has been mounting. In 2025, insider Daniel Richtman claimed Hellblade 3 was in development. Later that year, Ninja Theory shared a blurred image of a new project featuring a silhouette with vibrant colors—a stark contrast to Senua’s usual grim palette.

This aligns with financial reports from 2024, where the studio committed to “future projects” with high production values.

Verdict: Is Hellblade 3 the Right Move?

Abandoning Project Mara is a tough call, but doubling down on Hellblade makes commercial sense. The franchise carries massive weight for Xbox.

If Ninja Theory can marry their elite storytelling with deep, engaging combat mechanics, Hellblade 3 could finally unite the critics and the gamers.

Do you prefer the cinematic style of Hellblade 2, or does the series need complex gameplay to keep you interested?


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