Over a decade ago, Techland promised a grand dark fantasy action RPG, but Project Hell was ultimately canceled and, to the disappointment of fans, re-emerged as DLC for Dying Light’s Hellraid mode.

More than ten years ago, Techland unveiled Project Hell, an ambitious first-person action RPG set in a grim fantasy universe, sparking high expectations among its fans. However, the project faced repeated setbacks, was eventually canceled, and returned as a downloadable add-on for the first Dying Light, leaving many wondering what was lost in the transition.

Project Hell envisioned a post-magical-cataclysm world ravaged by demonic hordes, where players could control class-free heroes capable of blending melee weapons and magic at will. The combat promised tactical depth, relying on attack trajectories, timely dodges, blocks, and counterattacks, with enemies adapting to the player’s fighting style.

From Project Hell to Hellraid DLC

This concept pointed toward a dark RPG far removed from Techland’s usual style. Yet after years of interrupted development and delays caused by the first Dying Light, the standalone game was scrapped in 2015, only to return in 2020 as the Hellraid DLC. This scaled-down version limited the experience to exploring a single dark dungeon and battling waves of foes. Player reviews reflected the disappointment, describing the content as shallow and unsatisfying for those expecting a complex action RPG.

Even though Project Hell was shelved, its spirit isn’t entirely gone. In 2026, Paraglacial aims to launch a first-person action RPG that openly acknowledges the influence of Hellraid and similar titles, seeking to fill the void Techland left behind. Fatekeeper promises a return to dark fantasy and tactical combat, but only time will tell if it can meet those lofty expectations.

The story of Project Hell serves as a clear example of how a promising idea can fall victim to creative shifts and market pressures, leaving a community convinced they missed out on something special.

Source: GryOnline