I grew up loving Greek mythology. One of my all-time favorite book series is “Percy Jackson and the Olympians”. That love has carried over into my love of video games with “Hades” and the sequel, “Hades II”.
“Hades” is a roguelite, a genre of game where you die and start over, but there are ways you can progress. It’s a style of game that could easily become frustrating, but “Hades” doesn’t.
The story and characters are inspired by Greek mythology. And contrary to the name of the game, you don’t play as Hades, but as his son, Zagreus, who is trying to escape the Underworld, much to the dismay of his father.
The playstyle has a lot of variety as you progress through the game. There are a number of different weapons you can unlock, and each has a unique way to play. As you progress through a run, there is a random selection of upgrades that apply to you or your weapons that change how you approach enemies. Even when playing with the same weapon, each run is different. The rooms and enemies are also randomized, which further varies every playthrough.
Even though each run starts in the same place, it doesn’t feel like starting over. When a run ends, you go back to the House of Hades. There, you can change out weapons, equipment, and upgrade your character, making him more powerful. You can also talk to characters in the House, learning more about them and progressing the story. The story also progresses the further in the game you get. It drives you to go further.
The artstyle is gorgeous, and each area is distinctly different. Discovering each new area and character is something I remember being excited about in my first playthrough. The new areas have safe rooms at the start, and even almost a hundred hours in, I still stop and appreciate the art.
The soundtrack is easily one of my favorite video game soundtracks. Instead of the standard classical sound, it’s more electronic. The music is driving and adds to the intensity of fighting for your life.
“Hades II”, which is currently in early access, builds upon what made the first game great while feeling like a distinct game. It follows Melinoë, the daughter of Hades and Zagreus’ younger sister. Instead of being a melee fighter, she’s a magic user, which completely changes how you approach the game. Even in early access, the game feels more expansive and is already so much fun to play.
“Hades” and “Hades II” are difficult, but rewarding games that I highly recommend giving a try.
Kai Spahr is a Buhler sophomore studying media and film production and is the Opinion Page Editor.
