Hellpoint is a third-person action role-playing game set in a dark sci-fi universe. Players control a Spawn of the Authority sent to investigate a catastrophic event on the derelict Irid Novo space colony. The title blends challenging combat with extensive exploration across an interconnected station orbiting a black hole in real time.
Gameplay
Combat revolves around a stamina system that governs attacks, dodges, and blocks. Players execute light and strong melee strikes alongside ranged options from firearms. Each weapon features unique special abilities that unlock through continued use, encouraging experimentation with different loadouts. Healing works through a gauge that refills when striking enemies, allowing storage of up to two injections for later use.
Exploration forms the core loop. The station offers multiple paths and hidden passages that players can tackle in any order. Breaches serve as checkpoints that restore health without respawning enemies, though activating fast travel between them requires rare synchronization items. The real-time orbit around the black hole drives dynamic events, including horde assaults during Hell Hour and increased boss strength or altered enemy positions during Black Hole Hour. Three primary enemy factions populate the ruins, each presenting distinct threats tied to interdimensional forces.
Character progression allows dedication to different Cults and participation in rituals that modify enemy resilience. A power crafting system lets players forge supernatural skills to complement their build. Armor and weapon variety supports melee-focused, ranged, or hybrid approaches without restricting movement in low-gravity sections.
Game Modes
Single-player serves as the primary experience, emphasizing solo navigation through the station's mysteries. Multiplayer options include online co-op where friends can join to assist or collaborate on the full campaign. Loot remains shared, and progress for additional local players carries over without dilution.
Split-screen couch co-op supports up to two players on the same screen for uninterrupted sessions. Online features also permit playing against others in certain encounters. The entire game completes in co-op without interruptions to the main progression.
World and Atmosphere
The Irid Novo colony functions as a massive, non-linear environment filled with secrets layered within secrets. Its sci-fi setting draws from classic influences, featuring an ominous black hole that influences events and enemy behavior throughout the station. A distinctive soundtrack enhances the sense of isolation and dread as players descend into deeper, more hazardous sections overrun by cosmic entities.
Interdimensional puppets and malevolent forces tied to Cosmic Gods create ongoing tension. The aftermath of the Merge event shapes the lore, revealed gradually through exploration rather than direct exposition.
Is It Worth Playing?
Hellpoint delivers a demanding experience suited to players who enjoy methodical combat and discovery in interconnected worlds. Its sci-fi twist on established mechanics, combined with the black hole's dynamic influence, provides consistent variety during runs. Patches released after launch addressed many initial technical issues, improving stability for those returning or starting fresh.
Reception highlights the atmospheric setting and responsive combat as strengths, while noting the steep challenge curve and emphasis on careful exploration. It appeals most to fans of action RPGs who value freedom in progression and co-op flexibility over streamlined guidance. The game remains available on PC with its core systems intact years after release.
