Hades II Review: A Mythic Sequel That Perfects a Flawless Formula

Supergiant Games has done the impossible. In the world of game development, creating a sequel that not only lives up to but surpasses its universally acclaimed predecessor is a feat reserved for a select few. With the full release of “Hades II,” the studio has not only met this challenge but has done so with a level of artistry and confidence that cements its place as one of the best developers in the industry. The game has been met with a near-perfect reception from critics, with a Metacritic score of 94, solidifying it as a strong contender for Game of the Year.

The original “Hades” was a roguelike masterpiece, celebrated for its brilliant combat, captivating characters, and narrative that thrived on player failure. “Hades II” takes every one of these elements and elevates them to new heights. Players are introduced to Melinoë, the Princess of the Underworld and sister of the first game’s protagonist, Zagreus. Melinoë’s quest is a grand one: to descend into the Underworld and defeat the Titan of Time, Chronos, who has imprisoned her family and laid siege to Olympus. This new, larger-than-life narrative provides a rich canvas for the game’s flawless characterization and deep world-building.

Impeccable Combat and a Cast of Unforgettable Gods

The combat in “Hades II” is a triumph. While it maintains the fast-paced, isometric action of its predecessor, it introduces a new emphasis on magic and strategy. As a witch, Melinoë has a Magick bar that allows her to perform powerful “Omega” versions of her attacks, specials, and casts. This adds a new layer of resource management to each encounter and forces players to think more tactically. The game also introduces a host of new and returning weapons, each with unique Aspects that dramatically change how they are played. From the fiery Umbral Flames to the weighty Moonstone Axe, every weapon feels distinct and encourages a new playstyle.

The boons from the Gods are back and better than ever. The new roster of Olympian and Chthonic deities is a treat, with each character imbued with a unique personality and witty dialogue that reacts to the player’s every action. The new Gods, like Hecate and Nemesis, are particularly well-written, with complex relationships that develop over time. The game also introduces a new hub world, the Crossroads, which is not only larger and more detailed than the House of Hades but also allows for new interactions, including gardening, familiar pets, and new places to socialize with the cast. The ability to engage in relationships and deepen bonds with a cast of over 45 fully-voiced characters is a massive part of the game’s appeal, and “Hades II” delivers on this in spades.

• Expanded Arsenal: Melinoë has a brand new set of weapons and abilities, each with multiple forms that encourage diverse playstyles.
• The Magick System: A new resource bar that enables powerful Omega attacks, adding a layer of strategic depth to the combat.
• New and Returning Gods: A roster of over 20 new and returning Gods with expanded roles and relationships.
• The Crossroads: An all-new hub world that serves as a central point for progression, character interactions, and story development.

The brilliance of “Hades II” lies in its ability to take a proven formula and perfect it. Every aspect of the game—from the breathtaking art and dynamic music to the flawless narrative and addictive gameplay loop—has been refined and expanded. While the early hours may be tough, the game’s difficulty is always fair, and every death feels like a meaningful part of the story. The addition of new systems like the Arcana Cards, which grant permanent buffs, ensures that every run, successful or not, contributes to a greater sense of progression. With an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam and a near-perfect critical score, “Hades II” is a masterpiece of game design and a must-play for fans of roguelikes and character-driven storytelling.