The original Hades was one of the most loved indie games of its generation, so expectations for Hades II were very high. Supergiant Games has delivered a sequel that builds on everything players loved while adding new ideas, a new protagonist and a much bigger structure. It is one of the best action games you can play today.
In this review we look at the story, combat, progression, art and music, and whether you need to have played the first game to enjoy it.
A new protagonist
Hades II stars Melinoë, a princess of the Underworld and a witch trained by the goddess Hecate. Her goal is to defeat Chronos, the Titan of Time, who has taken over the Underworld and imprisoned her family. You do not need to have played the first game to understand the story, but returning players will enjoy familiar faces and references.
How a run works
Like the first game, Hades II is a roguelike. Each attempt, or run, takes you through a series of rooms filled with enemies. When you clear a room, you choose a reward for the next one. If you die, you return to a hub area called the Crossroads, where you can upgrade abilities, talk to characters and prepare for the next attempt.
Failure is part of the design. Every run gives you resources, story progress and new knowledge, so even unsuccessful attempts feel meaningful.
Combat
Combat is fast, smooth and stylish. Melinoë uses different Nocturnal Arms, such as a staff, twin blades and other weapons, each with its own attacks and special moves. She also has an Omega system, which lets you charge attacks for stronger effects by using magick.
During runs, you receive boons from Olympian gods. Each boon changes your attacks, specials, casts or dashes with new effects. Combining boons from different gods creates powerful synergies. One run might focus on freezing enemies, while another builds around lightning or explosions. This variety keeps each run fresh.
Two paths
A major addition is that you can choose between two routes: going down into the Underworld or up to the surface. Each path has different regions, enemies and bosses. This adds a lot of variety and gives the game a larger scale than the original.
Progression
At the Crossroads you unlock Arcana cards that provide permanent bonuses, gather resources, and use a cauldron to perform incantations that unlock new features and story events. Building relationships with characters by giving gifts and talking to them reveals more of their stories.
Writing and voice acting
Supergiant is known for excellent writing and voice acting, and Hades II continues that tradition. Characters react to your runs, your successes and your failures, so the story keeps moving even when you lose. Dialogue is witty, emotional and full of personality.
Art and music
The hand-painted art style is beautiful, with vibrant colours and detailed character portraits. The soundtrack mixes rock, folk and orchestral elements, with songs that stick in your head long after you stop playing.
Difficulty
Hades II can be tough at first, especially for players new to roguelikes. However, permanent upgrades make you stronger over time, and the game includes options to make it easier. Skilled players can increase the challenge with optional modifiers.
Tips for beginners
- Try every weapon to find your favourite
- Focus on boons that work well together
- Spend resources at the Crossroads after each run
- Talk to characters to unlock story and rewards
- Do not be discouraged by early deaths
Who is it for?
Hades II is perfect for players who love fast action, replayable games and strong storytelling. It is also a great introduction to roguelikes for players who have never tried the genre.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to play Hades first? No. The story stands on its own, though the first game adds context.
Is it very hard? It is challenging, but progression and options make it accessible.
How long is it? Reaching the main ending takes many hours, and there is much more to do after that.
Magick and the Omega system
Magick is a resource that powers Melinoë’s stronger abilities. By holding the attack or special button, you can unleash Omega versions of moves that are more powerful but use magick. Managing magick becomes a key part of combat, especially in tough fights. Some boons restore magick or reduce its cost, which can completely change how a build plays.
Hexes and boss fights
Melinoë can also use a Hex, a powerful spell granted by certain gods that charges as you use magick. Hexes can freeze time, deal heavy damage or protect you, and using them at the right moment can turn a difficult fight around.
Boss fights are memorable and challenging. Each region ends with a guardian who has distinct attack patterns. Learning their moves over several runs and finally defeating them feels like a real achievement.
Replay value
Hades II is designed to be played many times. Different weapons, aspects, boons, keepsakes and routes mean there are countless combinations to try. Optional challenges increase difficulty and offer extra rewards for skilled players. Even after the credits roll, there are more story events and secrets to discover.
Is it worth buying?
Considering the amount of content, quality of writing and replay value, Hades II offers excellent value for money. For players in Malaysia, it is often discounted during major online sales, which makes it an even better deal, but it is worth buying at full price too.
Platform recommendations
On PC, Hades II runs smoothly on a wide range of hardware, including many budget laptops, so you do not need a high-end gaming machine. On Nintendo Switch, it is perfect for short runs in bed or on the go, since each attempt can be played in a single sitting. Whichever platform you choose, a controller is recommended for the best experience, although keyboard and mouse controls work well too.
Verdict
Hades II is a brilliant sequel that improves on an already excellent game. Its combat is tight and satisfying, its world is bigger, and its characters are memorable. If you enjoy action games at all, Hades II is a must play.