Is “Hades II” a masterpiece or a disaster?.
With the previous game “Hades” earning rave reviews worldwide, the sequel “Hades II” is drawing huge attention. Based on its release date, supported platforms, and hands-on impressions from real players, we thoroughly examine its strengths, weaknesses, and the hopes and worries seen on social media.
So, can “Hades II” truly be called a masterpiece, or is it an overhyped letdown? By the end of this article, you should have a clear answer.
- What is Hades II?
- “Hades II” release date, price, platforms, genre, and developer
- What “Hades II” does well
- Where “Hades II” may fall short
- Frequently asked questions about “Hades II”
- Settings, environment, and peripherals to enjoy “Hades II” to the fullest
- Love “Hades II”? Check these related gems
- “Hades II” vs. other hits: which to buy?
- Social media buzz: hopes and worries
- Is “Hades II” a masterpiece or a disaster? (Conclusion)
What is Hades II?
“Hades II” is the latest roguelike action RPG from Supergiant Games and the direct sequel to the globally acclaimed “Hades.”
While the previous game starred Zagreus, Prince of the Underworld, this time the protagonist is Melinoë, Princess of the Underworld, leading to a brand-new fight and story. The boldly reimagined Greek-mythology setting and the unique structure where the narrative gradually unfolds through repeated runs remain intact, while combat has evolved to become more strategic and varied.
Particular highlights are the added “sorcery elements” and the “new variety of weapons.” The range of combat styles is broader than ever, letting each player’s approach shine—something fans have praised highly.
How it evolves from the first “Hades”
“Hades II” is more than a simple sequel, with major improvements to both systems and presentation.
- Protagonist changes to “Princess Melinoë” → An Underworld tale told from a fresh perspective
- Introduction of a Sorcery system → Deeper, more strategic combat
- More diverse new weapons → Unique actions not seen in the previous game
- Environmental changes and multi-layered maps → A different exploration experience every run
- Returning characters from the previous game → Fan-pleasing connective tissue remains
Worldbuilding and story
While set in the Underworld, “Hades II” faces a different, looming threat than before. As Princess Melinoë, players take on the mighty Titan Cronos (the god of time).
Grounded in Greek myth yet reconstructed through Supergiant’s signature original interpretation and gorgeous art, the world has been described by many fans as “a moving painting.” Additionally, since new conversations and story bits appear each time you die, the design naturally encourages you to dig deeper into the narrative.
Core gameplay elements
“Hades II” retains the roguelike, “learn by dying” structure. However, drawing on feedback from the previous title, it further enhances accessibility and the rush of combat.
| Element | Features |
|---|---|
| Combat | Sorcery × melee × ranged allows for varied combos |
| Progression | Different upgrades each run enable new strategies every time |
| Dungeon structure | Procedurally generated maps + events keep it fresh |
| Characters | Conversations with gods and denizens of the Underworld broaden the story |
Thanks to these features, “Hades II” achieves an addictive design that makes you want to dive back in again and again.
“Hades II” release date, price, platforms, genre, and developer
“Hades II” will officially launch in 2025 as the sequel to “Hades.” After an early access period to polish the game, both digital and physical editions are slated for release.
Release dates
- Digital (full 1.0): Thursday, September 25, 2025
- Physical package: Thursday, November 20, 2025
This means digital players can start in September, while collectors and box enthusiasts can pick up the physical edition in November.
Price
While pricing varies by platform, Supergiant’s official guidance pegs it at approximately ¥5,000–¥6,000. The physical edition is planned to include bonuses like a character booklet and a soundtrack download code, making it an appealing package for fans.
Platforms
“Hades II” supported platforms are as follows:
- PC (Steam / Epic Games Store)
- Nintendo Switch
- Nintendo Switch 2 (backward compatibility supported)
At this time, PS5 and Xbox Series releases haven’t been officially announced. However, since the previous “Hades” later expanded to multiple platforms, future support can’t be ruled out.
Genre
Roguelike action RPG. As with the first game, you strengthen your character through repeated deaths and gradually unravel the story. With the added sorcery elements, combat is more strategic and varied than ever.
Developer
Supergiant Games handles both development and publishing. Despite being an indie studio, their quality is top-tier, with acclaimed titles like “Bastion,” “Transistor,” and “Pyre.” The previous “Hades” has been played by millions and won numerous awards including at The Game Awards. Its sequel alone is enough to turn heads among gamers worldwide.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Release dates | Digital: 2025-09-25 Physical: 2025-11-20 |
| Price | Approx. ¥5,000–¥6,000 |
| Platforms | PC (Steam / Epic Games) · Nintendo Switch · Switch 2 |
| Genre | Roguelike action RPG |
| Developer | Supergiant Games |
What “Hades II” does well
“Hades II” aims to surpass the quality of “Hades,” and many players already praise its high level of polish—especially the exhilaration of combat, the art, the music, and its strong replayability.
Refined combat system
The fast, snappy, and satisfying battles that earned praise in the first game have evolved further. On top of melee and ranged attacks, the new Sorcery system enables even more varied combat styles.
- Melee: Swords, spears, fists, and more deliver pure oomph
- Ranged: Bows and sorcery allow safer, more measured play
- Sorcery: Time-stop and AoE abilities enable strategic approaches
As a result, your personal style shines through more than ever.
Beautiful art and music
Art and music—Supergiant’s calling cards—are once again on full display. The intricately crafted visuals are called a “moving painting,” enriching the Underworld’s distinctive atmosphere.
On the music side, Darren Korb returns, with tense battle tracks and tender melodies that color the story—often cited on social media as “headphones required” for maximum immersion.
High replayability
The charm of roguelikes lies in how every run feels different. In “Hades II,” procedural maps plus boons and upgrades from the gods change each time, so no two runs are alike.
Furthermore, death unlocks new conversations and events that deepen your relationships with characters. This makes it so that even dying becomes a fun part of progression.
Storytelling that surpasses the original
While “Hades” focused on Zagreus’s relationship with his father Hades, the new game builds an even grander, deeper narrative around the new protagonist Melinoë. The central antagonist is Cronos, the god of time, and through conflict and cooperation with the gods, the story becomes even more dramatic.
Since lines and events change as you progress, the full picture gradually emerges over multiple runs, providing an immersion that’s hard to escape once it hooks you.
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Combat system | Sorcery adds more ways to fight |
| Art & music | Gorgeous “moving painting” visuals with immersive music |
| Replayability | Varied experiences + story that advances on death |
| Story | A sweeping tale of Melinoë’s growth and clashes among gods |
Thanks to these factors, many gamers consider “Hades II” a surefire masterpiece contender.
Where “Hades II” may fall short
Despite strong praise, “Hades II” may not be perfect for everyone. Be mindful of difficulty, repetition, localization, and performance concerns.
Frustration from high difficulty
As with many action roguelikes, “Hades II” is by no means easy. You’ll learn enemy patterns and improve through repeated attempts, so those not comfortable with action games may face a steep early wall.
If you enjoy the “die and learn” loop, it’s compelling. If you want quick wins in short sessions, it may feel unforgiving.
Sensation of repetition
Even with randomness and event variety, you’ll still revisit similar map structures many times. Since progressing the story often requires repeated attempts, some players may feel it becomes “grindy.”
If you want to binge the story quickly, the pacing may feel a bit stretched.
Delay in Japanese localization
One current concern is when Japanese will be fully supported. Early access only supports English, and while Japanese subtitles/translation are in progress for the full release, there’s no guarantee it will be perfect on day one.
Thus, players not comfortable with English may struggle to fully enjoy the narrative—especially given the complex mythological dialogue. The quality of the Japanese localization will matter a lot.
Performance worries on certain platforms
While PC performance should be solid, there are concerns about graphics load and frame-rate dips on Switch. The Switch version of the previous “Hades” drew mixed views as well, so how comfortable handheld play will be remains a question.
| Concern | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | The “learn by dying” style can cause early frustration |
| Repetition | Exploring similar areas repeatedly may feel grindy |
| Localization | Unclear if full Japanese support will be ready at launch |
| Performance | Potential frame-rate dips if Switch optimization lags |
From these points, it’s clear “Hades II” targets core gamers. It’s less of a mass-market crowd-pleaser and more for players who relish “challenge and achievement.”
Frequently asked questions about “Hades II”
Given the hype, players have lots of questions even before launch. Here are answers to the most common ones to help you buy with confidence.
Q1: Can I enjoy it without playing the first “Hades”?
A1: Yes. “Hades II” is a sequel, but the protagonist is the new character “Melinoë,” so newcomers can follow the story just fine. That said, playing the first game enriches your understanding of the world and relationships.
Q2: Can beginners clear it?
A2: While challenging, it’s approachable. The roguelike design expects you to die, and your skills and knowledge build naturally through repetition. Even after failure, you keep strengthening your character, so effort always moves you forward.
Q3: How long is a single run?
A3: Roughly 20–40 minutes per attempt. Since XP and items carry forward even if you fall, it’s designed for “short, repeatable sessions,” perfect for busy students and working adults.
Q4: What’s the total playtime?
A4: It depends, but 30–40 hours to follow the main beats. If you chase secrets and all relationship events, it can be 100+ hours. Among roguelikes, its replay value is especially high, so completionists will feast.
Q5: What languages are supported? Is Japanese included?
A5: At launch, multiple languages including English are planned. Japanese localization will likely arrive via a post-launch update. The first “Hades” added Japanese later, so a similar path is expected.
Q6: Any online or multiplayer features?
A6: No. “Hades II” is strictly single-player. There’s no co-op or versus mode. Instead, you get a dense, replayable single-player experience.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Okay to skip the first game? | Yes—new protagonist. Knowing the first game enhances the experience. |
| Beginner-friendly to clear? | Challenging, but repeated attempts ensure progress. |
| Length of one run | About 20–40 minutes; easy to pick up and play. |
| Total play volume | 30–40 hours for the main path; 100+ hours to 100%. |
| Japanese support | Uncertain at launch; likely via update later. |
| Multiplayer | Not supported; purely single-player. |
From this Q&A, “Hades II” is designed for a wide range of players from beginners to veterans. Keep the language and difficulty barriers in mind to ensure a smoother experience.
Settings, environment, and peripherals to enjoy “Hades II” to the fullest
Since “Hades II” features beautiful graphics and fast-paced combat, the right setup will greatly boost your satisfaction. Here are optimal environments for PC and Switch, plus recommended accessories.
Recommended PC specs
If you choose PC, you’ll buy via Steam or Epic Games. Based on official notes and the previous game’s requirements, here are the recommended specs.
| Item | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 (64-bit) | Windows 11 (64-bit) |
| CPU | Intel i5 4th Gen / AMD Ryzen 3 | Intel i7 8th Gen / AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or better |
| Memory | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| GPU | NVIDIA GTX 950 / AMD Radeon R7 | NVIDIA GTX 1660 / AMD RX 5600 or better |
| Storage | 15 GB free space | SSD recommended (faster loading) |
Playing on an SSD dramatically cuts load times, making repeat runs much smoother.
Tips for a smoother Switch experience
“Hades II” supports both Switch and Switch 2. Handheld play is convenient, but graphics load and frame-rate dips can be concerns. Try the following:
- Prefer TV mode over handheld → More stable frame rate
- Use wired or high-speed Wi-Fi → Essential for downloads and updates
- Leverage the auto-save feature → Great for bite-sized sessions
Recommended peripherals
To enhance comfort and immersion:
- Pro Controller (Switch): More comfortable for long sessions
- Wired/wireless gamepad (PC): Lower input latency for action games
- High-quality headset: A must to savor Supergiant’s music
- Large monitor or gaming display: Enjoy the art on a big screen
- SSD (external/internal): Shorter load times and quicker runs
Suggested playstyles
“Hades II” works in short bursts but deepens the longer you immerse yourself. Try these:
- Keep individual runs to 20–30 minutes for brisk pacing
- On weekends, do 2–3 hour sessions to push the story
- Wear headphones to sink into the world and soundtrack
With the right setup, you can maximize the game’s addictive loop and immersion.
Love “Hades II”? Check these related gems
If you enjoy “Hades II”, try other roguelikes, action RPGs, and Supergiant’s earlier works. All are highly rated and should click with Hades II fans.
The previous “Hades”
You can’t skip “Hades”. It follows Zagreus as he attempts to escape his father Hades. Gameplay is the same roguelike action foundation as Hades II, and playing it first deepens your grasp of the world and characters.
Dead Cells
“Dead Cells” is a 2D action game with roguelike elements, loved for its responsive feel and broad weapon builds. If Hades II’s speed hooked you, you’ll enjoy the thrill of improving through repeat attempts.
Bastion
Supergiant’s earlier hit “Bastion” pairs hand-painted style art with distinctive narration. If Hades II’s visuals and music captivated you, this lets you experience the studio’s roots.
Transistor
“Transistor” is an action RPG set in a futuristic city, blending strategic combat with a rich sci-fi world. If you want something more serious than Hades II, this is ideal. Its soundscape is especially acclaimed, offering that signature Supergiant immersion.
Curse of the Dead Gods
“Curse of the Dead Gods” is a dark roguelike action title. Traps and curses define its unique systems, perfect for players drawn to Hades II’s strategic side. Its feel is close to Hades, so it’s easy to pick up.
Hollow Knight
“Hollow Knight” is a globally acclaimed metroidvania. Though less roguelike than Hades II, its challenging, tightly designed exploration and combat make it ideal for thrill-seekers.
| Title | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hades | The prior entry. A roguelike action game about Zagreus’s escape. |
| Dead Cells | Fast 2D roguelike action with diverse weapon builds. |
| Bastion | Supergiant classic with hand-painted art and narration. |
| Transistor | Strategic action RPG set in a sci-fi world; stellar music. |
| Curse of the Dead Gods | Dark roguelike centered on traps and curses. |
| Hollow Knight | High-difficulty exploration with meticulous maps and combat. |
These are all prime candidates for fans who love “Hades II”. You can deepen your understanding of the series or enjoy roguelike fun from a different angle—great picks for your post-credits queue.
“Hades II” vs. other hits: which to buy?
As a flagship roguelike action title, “Hades II” is often compared with popular games that offer similar experiences. Here’s how it stacks up.
Hades II vs. Dead Cells
“Dead Cells” is a 2D side-scrolling roguelike. Hades II uses a top-down 3D perspective, giving it stronger visual immersion and presentation. Dead Cells counters with ultra-crisp action and build freedom.
| Category | Hades II | Dead Cells |
|---|---|---|
| Viewpoint | Top-down 3D action | 2D side-scrolling |
| Narrative | Rich story rooted in Greek myth | Worldbuilding exists, story is lighter |
| Combat | Strategic melee + ranged + sorcery | Speedy, satisfying 2D action |
| Replayability | Events and dialogue evolve across runs | Endless variety from weapon/skill combos |
Bottom line: Choose Hades II for story and presentation; Dead Cells for pure action feel.
Hades II vs. Hollow Knight
“Hollow Knight” is a landmark metroidvania with intricately built maps and tough boss fights. Hades II leans into roguelike freshness so each run feels new.
| Category | Hades II | Hollow Knight |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Roguelike action RPG | Metroidvania |
| Progression | New elements unlock after each death | Advance by exploring a vast, interconnected map |
| Difficulty | High, but you steadily power up | Very challenging exploration and bosses |
| Narrative | Unfolds through character dialogue | Primarily environmental storytelling |
Bottom line: Pick Hades II if you love repeat-run roguelikes; Hollow Knight if you crave exploration and grueling tests.
Hades II vs. Bastion
“Bastion” is an early Supergiant title known for hand-painted art and dynamic narration. Hades II builds on that legacy, massively expanding combat and narrative scope.
| Category | Hades II | Bastion |
|---|---|---|
| Combat | Fast, varied roguelike action | Action elements present but simpler |
| Presentation | Character banter and anime-like staging | Narration-driven, distinctive style |
| Replayability | Story deepens through multiple runs | Satisfying one-and-done experience |
Bottom line: “Hades II” inherits Bastion’s DNA while scaling up in every direction.
These comparisons show that “Hades II” balances story, presentation, and replayability extremely well, standing tall among its peers.
Social media buzz: hopes and worries
As one of 2025’s most anticipated games, “Hades II” is trending across social platforms. The first game’s stellar reputation fuels both excitement and concern.
Hype
On Twitter (X), Reddit, and YouTube, you’ll see takes like:
- “The first game was a masterpiece—I’m buying the sequel for sure!”
- “Melinoë’s character design is perfect! A new protagonist feels fresh.”
- “So glad Darren Korb is back on music!”
- “The ‘die and get stronger’ loop is so addictive.”
- “If it runs great on Switch 2, masterpiece confirmed.”
There’s strong anticipation for the visuals, music, and story, with the big question being whether it can top the original.
Concerns
On the other hand, you’ll also see:
- “It’s a roguelike—will the repetition make me burn out?”
- “I’m worried Japanese support will lag.”
- “Will the Switch version’s frame rate be stable?”
- “If the difficulty’s too high, casual players might bounce.”
- “Day-one bugs would be a mood killer.”
Since early access titles often face initial bugs and tuning issues, overall polish, localization, and platform-specific optimization are hot topics.
Overall verdict on SNS
Sentiment skews heavily positive, with many calling it “a masterpiece even before release.” Still, repetition and difficulty may turn off some players, and launch-day impressions could swing the consensus.
| Hype | Concerns |
|---|---|
| Hopes it surpasses the first / Praise for character design / Trust in the music / Expectations for Switch 2 | Worries about repetition / Lagging Japanese support / Switch performance / High difficulty |
Overall, the vibe is roughly 80% excitement, 20% concern, with final judgment hinging on launch-day reviews and user impressions.
Is “Hades II” a masterpiece or a disaster? (Conclusion)
“Hades II” is a roguelike action RPG that makes major strides to surpass its predecessor. Taking into account social chatter, user impressions, and the game’s content, it’s far from a disaster—in fact, its polish is worthy of the “masterpiece” label.
Overall rating (5 parameters)
| Category | Score (out of 20) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics | 20 | Gorgeous art dubbed a “moving painting.” Character designs also shine. |
| Controls | 18 | Fast and satisfying; sorcery adds welcome depth. |
| Story | 20 | A grand retelling of Greek myth with rich character banter. |
| Replayability | 20 | Events evolve across runs; highly addictive loop. |
| Value | 18 | ¥5,000–¥6,000 for dozens to 100+ hours; enticing physical extras. |
Total score
96 / 100
Final word
“Hades II” is poised to be a masterpiece!
Art, music, story, and gameplay all hit a high bar, pushing the roguelike genre forward. That said, its difficulty and repetition won’t suit absolutely everyone.
Even so, for players who relish challenge and hard-won triumph, “Hades II” is undeniably a top-tier contender.
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