Hades II improves on nearly every aspect of its phenomenal predecessor with deeper combat and customization, a substantially larger world, and creative witchcraft abilities.
As the sequel to one of the best indie games in recent memory, I had little doubt that Hades II would be a highly entertaining return to Greek mythology. Still, I was a bit disappointed to see developer Supergiant Games opt for a safe sequel to its smash hit roguelike, after a string of original games. Happily, Supergiant has quickly put any of my misgivings to rest. Although Hades II ($29.99, reviewed on Nintendo Switch 2, also available on Nintendo Switch and PC) doesn’t reinvent the formula, it introduces multiple brilliant upgrades that make it substantially better. The game’s new witchy heroine changes how you fight, who you fight, why you fight them, and the overall vibe. The many mechanics occasionally drag, but Hades II is one of the year’s best titles, and an Editors’ Choice winner that’s impossible to put down. Outstanding Story, Graphics, and Music
Hades II’s story dumps you into a new status quo that follows major events that happened off-screen. As a result, returning Hades players will understand some plot references better than newcomers. Still, there’s a lot to like. Cronos, father of the gods, has returned to take revenge on his Olympian offspring. And Hades himself, the reformed lord of the underworld, is imprisoned in his own domain. You play as Melinoe, daughter of Hades, as she attempts to defeat the Titan of Time and rescue her family from his horde of monsters.
Like its predecessor, Hades II is deeply rooted in Greek mythology, with Circe, Narcissus, Zeus, and other familiar names appearing. However, Hades II explores the connection between the Greek underworld and ancient witchcraft. Melinoe might be the coolest video game witch since Bayonetta, and she is aided in her quest by her teacher, Hecate, a significant figure in witchcraft lore. It all gives the game an occult vibe, with a color palette full of spooky purple mist instead of the hellish red fires in the first Hades.
The aesthetic shift pairs perfectly with Supergiant Games’ gorgeous artwork. Richly detailed character portraits convey a god’s personality with a quick glance, and the in-game environments have a similar painterly charm. The smooth action plays out at up to 120 frames per second on the Nintendo Switch 2. Sumptuous audio also raises the production value, from the exquisite voice acting to the impressive soundtrack. One boss fight tasks you with fighting sirens who take the form of a pop girl band.
Tying it all together is writing and storytelling that not only made me love the characters and understand the stakes, but also justified the repetition inherent to the roguelike genre. Like its predecessor, Hades II makes the fact that you need to play it again and again a core part of its narrative. Your numerous failed attempts against the Titan of Time are necessary to push the plot forward. Even the game’s easier «god mode» maintains this sense of persistence, only slightly boosting your defense after each unsuccessful run.
