If you're looking for a game that combines intense action with a captivating narrative, then look no further than Hades. Developed by Supergiant Games, known for their previous hits Bastion and Transistor, Hades is a one-of-a-kind action game that sets the bar high for roguelites and roguelikes alike. In this Hades review, we'll delve into what makes this game a standout title that you should definitely consider adding to your collection.
In Hades, you play as Zagreus, the rebellious son of Hades, the lord of the underworld. Tired of his life in the Greek underworld, Zagreus is trying to escape the underworld to reach Mount Olympus. The game is an isometric roguelike that blends fast-paced combat with a deep and engaging story rooted in Greek myth.
The gameplay is fluid and responsive, with a focus on hack-and-slash combat and strategic decision-making. You have access to six different weapons, each offering a unique playstyle. These include the sword, bow, spear, shield, fists, and gun. Whether you prefer the ranged attacks of the bow or the up-close and personal combat of the spear, there's a weapon to suit every type of game style. Each weapon can be upgraded through the use of in-game currency and resources, providing even more depth to the gameplay.
One of Zagreus' key abilities is his dash, which allows him to swiftly evade attacks and navigate the dangerous environments of the underworld. Mastering the dash is essential for survival, as it provides both defensive and offensive advantages. The combat is fast-paced and requires quick reflexes, making Hades a thrilling type of game that keeps you on your toes.
A key feature of Hades is the Boons, which are powerful buffs granted by the gods of Olympus such as Dionysus, Athena, and Zeus. These Boons come in the form of choices offered during your journey, allowing you to tailor Zagreus' abilities to your liking. They imbue your attacks with elemental effects or grant new abilities, adding a layer of strategy to every run. The form of Boons you receive can significantly alter your gameplay experience, making each attempt to escape the underworld feel fresh.
The risk and reward system in Hades is superbly balanced. As you progress, you must decide whether to take on tougher challenges for greater rewards or play it safe. Every time you die, you return to the House of Hades, but instead of feeling frustrated, you're motivated to go for another run. The gameplay loop is addictive, and the game's replayability is one of its strongest points. The fear of death is mitigated by the fact that each death brings new opportunities for growth and storytelling.
The bosses in Hades provide significant challenges that test your skills. From the relentless Fury sisters to the bone Hydra guarding Asphodel, each boss fight requires strategy and quick reflexes. Overcoming these bosses is immensely satisfying and serves as a testament to the game's well-designed combat system.
The game also incorporates RPG elements, allowing you to customise Zagreus' abilities and build your relationships with other characters. Through the use of in-game currency like Darkness and Gems, you can purchase permanent upgrades in the Mirror of Night, enhancing your stats and unlocking new abilities. This progression system adds depth to the gameplay and gives you a sense of growth with every run.
Hades excels in its storytelling, offering a fresh take on figures from Greek myth. The developers at Supergiant have done an excellent job of bringing these ancient characters to life with modern sensibilities. The game's narrative unfolds as you interact with various characters in the House of Hades and throughout your journey.
Characters like Nyx, the goddess of night, and Achilles, the famed hero now serving as Zagreus' mentor, add depth to the story. Even Charon, the silent ferryman of the underworld, plays a significant role. Each character has something new to say every time you return to the House of Hades, making the game world feel alive and dynamic.
Zagreus' attempts to escape the underworld are not just about reaching the surface but also about uncovering family secrets and understanding his place among the gods. His interactions with his father Hades and other deities are filled with witty banter and emotional depth. The writing is top-notch, and the voice acting brings each character to life.
The relationships you build are integral to the game. By giving gifts and engaging in conversations, you can unlock side stories and in-game benefits. This aspect of the game encourages you to continue to play and explore every facet of the narrative.
Every time you die, you find yourself back in the House of Hades, ready to embark on another attempt at the road out of hell. The characters always have something new to say, and the story progresses with each return. This approach keeps the narrative fresh and encourages you to keep trying to escape the underworld.
Hades boasts an impressive isometric art style that brings the underworld to life. The environments are richly detailed, from the fiery depths of Tartarus to the molten rivers of Asphodel and the idyllic fields of Elysium. The visual design sets the bar for games in this genre.
The game's visual design is not just about aesthetics; it also plays a role in the gameplay. The environments are crafted in such a way that they inform you of the challenges ahead. For example, the lava-filled Asphodel requires careful navigation, while the traps in Tartarus demand quick reflexes and strategic use of your dash.
The soundtrack, composed by Darren Korb, complements the game's atmosphere perfectly. The music shifts seamlessly between intense combat tracks and more subdued melodies during quieter moments. The voice acting is top-notch, adding depth to the characters and enhancing the overall experience.
Hades is available on multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch and PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series consoles. The Switch version, in particular, has been praised for its smooth performance and portability, allowing players to enjoy the game on the go. The game is also available on Game Pass, making it accessible to a wider audience.
No matter which platform you choose, Hades runs smoothly and provides a consistent experience. The controls are responsive, and the game performs well even during intense combat sequences. Whether you're playing on Nintendo Switch and PC or consoles, you'll find that Hades delivers a top-notch experience.
Since its release, Hades has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Many consider it one of the best games in recent years, and for good reason. The game was initially released in early access, allowing the developers at Supergiant to refine the gameplay and narrative over time. This approach has resulted in a polished and engaging experience that has been years in the making.
Players who have played the game often praise its balance of challenge and reward. The combination of action, storytelling, and progression keeps them moving on to the next run, eager to see what awaits. The game has been lauded for revitalising interest in the roguelite genre, and many appreciate how the gods play a role not just in the story but in the gameplay itself.
Hades is one of those rare games that not only meets but exceeds expectations. It has set a new standard for roguelites and action games, and many players have praised it as a great game that revitalises the genre.
While Hades is a great game, it's not without its criticisms. Some players feel that the randomness of the Boons can sometimes make or break a run, leading to frustration. Others find that the difficulty spikes can be challenging, particularly when facing tough bosses.
Some players note that the learning curve can be steep, especially for those new to roguelikes. However, the game does a good job of easing you into the mechanics, and the fear of death diminishes as you become more skilled. The randomness of Boons and enemy encounters adds to the challenge but can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Additionally, some players have expressed a desire for more content after completing the main story. However, these criticisms are minor compared to the overall positive reception. The game's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and the community generally agrees that Hades is a must-play title.
In conclusion, Hades is a must-play game that offers a thrilling and immersive experience. Its blend of action, storytelling, and roguelike elements creates an addictive gameplay loop that keeps you coming back. Whether you're a fan of Greek myth, looking for a new roguelite to sink your teeth into, or simply seeking a game with depth and replayability, Hades delivers on all fronts.
Fans of Supergiant's previous titles like Bastion and Transistor will find familiar elements in Hades, while also appreciating the new directions the developer has taken since their work on Pyre. The developers at Supergiant have shown their versatility and commitment to quality, making Hades not just a great game but a significant milestone in their portfolio.
So, if you haven't already, do yourself a favour and play Hades. It's available on Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, and PC. It's one of those rare games that not only meets but exceeds expectations, truly setting the bar for future titles in the genre.
Hades invites you to go for another run, time and time again. Its addictive gameplay loop, compelling story, and satisfying combat make it a standout title. Whether you're a seasoned fan of roguelikes or new to the genre, Hades offers an experience that is both accessible and deep.
In the end, Hades' success lies in its ability to blend narrative and gameplay seamlessly. As a rougelite, it offers a level of progression and storytelling that sets it apart from other games in the genre. The combination of its mythological setting, engaging characters, and innovative mechanics makes Hades a game that you simply can't afford to miss.
