Ninja Theory’s Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice has already done a lot of the mental health community, such as promoting awareness surrounding the stigma of illnesses, creating a platform for those that suffer to speak up, and affording donations to relevant charities. As the title launches on Xbox One today, the studio has announced that if it does well, it will donate up to $50,000 to the US charity Mental Health America.

The developers announced its intentions via Twitter, outlining that if the Xbox One version manages to rack up 50,000 sales within its first week, then the firm would donate $25,000 to the charity in light of the game’s themes. Beyond this, if the game manages to reach 100,000 sales, the studio will double down its donation.

Given that the title managed to sell 500,000 copies within its first three months on PlayStation 4 last year, this is an ambitious, yet achievable goal. Since then, the title has gone on to win numerous awards for its performance, audio design and impact on the world, all of which are expected to help bolster sales. The title is currently up for nine awards at this year’s BAFTAs which is held in London tomorrow, 12th April.

#Hellblade launches for #XboxOne tomorrow!

If we hit 50,000 week 1 sales by April 18th, we can donate $25K to Mental Health America @MentalHealthAm !

If we hit 100,000 we can donate $50K! Spread the word! We can do it!! pic.twitter.com/vPPtxHZsYz

— NinjaTheory (@NinjaTheory) April 10, 2018

This isn’t the first time that Ninja Theory has pushed Hellblade into the charity circle, as the developers took a day out last year during World Mental Health Day, 10th October, to donate all proceeds from its UK sales to British mental health charity Rethink.

As it stands, Xbox One owners save 10 percent for a limited time, making the first week a prime time to grab the title. Ninja Theory has also said that it will keep existing and potential customers up to date with its current goals as the week progresses.

Hi! This is global sales on Xbox.

— NinjaTheory (@NinjaTheory) April 11, 2018

UPDATE: Ninja Theory has clarified that sales from all regions will count towards the goal, but only on the Xbox One platform.

KitGuru Says: The title is lauded as a success among critics and fans alike, making it one of 2017's best games, whether that's for its artistic value or its cultural impact. What do you think of Hellblade? Do you intend to buy the game this week?

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