Welcome to the Jungle
Yes, Green Hell is a ‘tree-punching game’; which is a ZTGD way of saying it’s a survival type game that will task players with build bases, hunting and cooking food, curing diseases and of course building a base. Green Hell is set deep in the jungles of the Amazon, players will take control of Jake; who is searching for his missing wife while she was making contact with an unknown tribe in the jungle. Of course, players will be collecting various resources in order to craft weapons and armor. Not only that but they will also have to learn what plants to use to cure a hose of various diseases including hallucinations among other ailments.
Green Hell on the Xbox Series X is one of the better games in the survival genre. The game’s graphics are breathtaking, bringing the lush, vibrant Amazon rainforest to life with stunning detail. The dense foliage, dynamic weather, and realistic lighting create an immersive environment that pulls you into the heart of the jungle. Every leaf, shadow, and raindrop are meticulously crafted, making the world feel alive and incredibly immersive.
MSRP: $24.99
Platforms: Xbox (reviewed), PlayStation, Switch, PC
Price I’d Pay: $24.99
One of the standout features of Green Hell is its portrayal of the native jungle peoples. The game treats these cultures with respect and depth, adding a layer of authenticity and intrigue to your survival journey. Interactions with these tribes are not just about survival but also about understanding and respecting their way of life, which adds a meaningful dimension to the gameplay. The developers have clearly put a lot of effort into researching and accurately representing these cultures, which is both educational and engaging.
When comparing Green Hell to other survival games like Subnautica and Ark: Survival Evolved, it holds its own remarkably well. While Subnautica excels in underwater exploration and Ark offers a prehistoric twist with dinosaurs, Green Hell’s strength lies in its extreme realism and psychological depth. The game’s mechanics, such as managing your character’s physical and mental health, are more intricate and demanding, providing a truly challenging and rewarding experience. The survival elements are more grounded in reality, requiring players to pay close attention to their surroundings, craft tools, and find food and shelter.
The psychological aspect of Green Hell is another area where it shines. The game doesn’t just challenge your physical survival skills but also your mental resilience. As you navigate the dense jungle, you must keep an eye on your character’s sanity, which can be affected by various factors such as isolation, injuries, and encounters with wildlife. This adds a layer of tension and immersion that is rarely seen in other survival games.
Green Hell feels like a must-play for any survival game enthusiast. Having come out in 2019 originally, I may be late to the party having just found it in 2024 with its Series X release. Its beautiful graphics, respectful depiction of native cultures, and intense survival mechanics set it apart from other games in the genre. Whether you’re a fan of Subnautica’s aquatic adventures or Ark’s dinosaur-filled landscapes, Green Hell offers a unique and unforgettable journey into the heart of the Amazon.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
