Hades II Review

I’m sure you’ve read every positive article and review there is for Hades II. On top of this, I bet you’ve installed it and played it to death if you are a Game Pass subscriber. If you have done any of these things, my words are going to be familiar…it is amazing. I’m not a lover of 10/10 reviews. 100% scores that promise the perfect experience. However, this game is as close to that mindset as you’ll ever get. If you’ve never played the original, it doesn’t matter. This standalone experience doesn’t punish you for missing the 1st instalment, but I highly recommend giving that a go as well.

Supergiant Games knows how to make a roguelike title. The first game was incredible, and it sets a standard that other titles can only dream of hitting. Thankfully, Hades II exceeds its predecessor in many ways. The witchy theme, impressive story, and deeper and more challenging content ensure that lovers of the franchise and genre will be impressed.

Hades II tells an incredible fantasy plot.

We all know about Hades and its original plot. Hades II takes place some time after the madness of its predecessor. Here, you play the part of Melinoe. She is the Princess of the Underworld who has been spirited away by the Goddess Hecate. After years of training, she is tasked with defeating her grandfather, Chronos, and rescuing her family.

The plot is fantastic, and unlike the first game, it splits to add depth and plenty of other elements to focus on. At its core, this retains the sense of grind and repetition of an action-roguelike. However, there are tactical moments while reducing the all-out brawling nature we’ve come to love.

It’s all about the magic.

We all know that this genre focuses on failure as a guaranteed lure. However, it is the magic and tactics that make this shine. Yes, there is some bum-rushing combat, but you progress at a fair rate of knots once you understand that magic is the answer. There are stronger Magick moments with the Omega meter. This enhances your normal attacks and other special abilities.

There are also resources to gather to perform incantations. These offer permanent buffs and a way to improve your chances. This element is complemented by the “Grasp” limit. With a selection of cards to handle, you must be wise in whichever you choose. Finally, there are hexes with their upgrade trees. These change per run and offer unique benefits.

It is this combination of different builds that makes Hades II such an enjoyable title. With different builds, the action feels deeper, more meaningful, and 100% more tactical. Moreover, the variety of monsters and the usual risks of failure keep you going from the opening moments.

Hades II is a dark fantasy dream.

Hades II is clean, colourful, interesting, and great to look at. The combat is fast and easy on the eye. Furthermore, the magic is edgy and spectacular. The range of different attacks is great, and the game is practically flawless. Therefore, it looks amazing and is a joy to play. The audio is as vibrant, sinister, and aggressive as you’d expect. The magic and fighting elements are high-energy and interesting to hear. In short, it is a game that’ll keep you focused throughout.

The controls are simple to understand, but can be tricky to master. Avoiding your foes isn’t always easy, and understanding how every upgrade and ability works is a case of trial and error. However, once you get to grips with it, it is an absolute joy to play. I’m not sure I need to mention replay value. This is one of those games that works perfectly on console and handheld devices. Furthermore, if you have a laptop, you can install it and enjoy the Play Anywhere feature!

Hades II is a masterpiece.

Hades II is as close to perfection as you’ll get. I know you’ve heard it before, but you will not be disappointed if you play this game. It is spectacular, and I loved everything about it. The story is great, the monsters are tough but fair, and the abilities are wonderful to master. Accordingly, it is fantastic, and I recommend getting a copy from the Xbox store!