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Move over Zagreus and make way for Melinoë.
Following the critical success of Hades, the roguelike that got even roguelike haters to love it, it was only a matter of time until Supergiant Games released a sequel.
Hades 2 was revealed during The Game Awards 2022 as the sequel to Hades. Instead of Zagreus, the game centers on his sister, Melinoë, as she makes her way to the Underworld.
When does Hades 2 release?
Hades 2, the long-anticipated sequel to Hades, is set to launch in Early Access in Q2 2024, somewhere between April and June. It will be available on both Steam and the Epic Games Store.
But why the delayed launch? Supergiant Games has a compelling answer. They’ve committed to delivering at least as much content from day one in Early Access as the original Hades had when it entered Early Access on Steam. Honestly, better a slightly later game than a bad one.
Early Access is taking a while to fine-tune
As the Early Access launch of Hades 2 approaches, Supergiant Games says they’ll be conducting a technical test with a limited group of players.
This test is designed to identify and address any technical or compatibility issues, guaranteeing a seamless gameplay experience for anyone diving into Hades 2 during Early Access. Further details about the Hades 2 Technical Test will be disclosed as we approach its Early Access release.
Who’s the new protagonist of Hades 2?
One of the most exciting aspects of Hades 2 is the introduction of a new protagonist, Melinoë. She’s introduced as the immortal Princess of the Underworld, making her the sister of Zagreus, the original game’s hero.
The character of Melinoë is inspired by ancient Underworld mythology, and her journey is set to be captivating. As players embark on her quest to save her father from Chronos, the Titan of Time, they’ll receive guidance from Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft, and interact with various other Olympian gods and heroes.
The element of mystery surrounding Melinoë’s character is what has fans in an uproar about what this means for our favorite Underworld family, what with the whole prophecy saying Hades can’t have an heir, much less two children. There’s even speculation that she isn’t Hades’ daughter due to existing myths about her being Persephone’s daughter by Zeus.
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Plot aside, the game adds more juicy Greek mythology lore to the franchise
While an in-depth understanding of Greek mythology isn’t required to enjoy Hades 2, the game draws inspiration from these ancient myths. In particular, it weaves a captivating tale around Hecate, the secretive goddess of witchcraft and the crossroads.
Hecate’s role in classical mythology, especially in relation to Hades and the Underworld, has significantly influenced the game’s development. The studio’s dedication to honoring the mythology and folklore surrounding Hecate shines through, creating a narrative that is both rich and engaging.
We’re getting more exploration in Hades 2
Hades 2 stays true to the core gameplay elements that made its predecessor a hit. It’s a roguelike dungeon crawler set in a larger mythic Underworld, ensuring that players have ample opportunities for exploration. Expect new locations, challenges, and upgrade systems to enhance the gameplay experience.
Melinoë wields a unique arsenal, showcasing her abilities as a witch and sorceress who can master powerful magical abilities and deadly skills with shadowy weapons. The debut trailer provided a glimpse of her combat prowess as she confronts the forces led by the Titan of Time. Like Hades, players will have the powers of Olympus behind them as they navigate the Underworld.
Supergiant Games already has a plan for the updates
As with the original Hades, Supergiant Games is planning to extend the gameplay experience through several major updates during the Early Access phase, culminating in the v1.0 launch, which will provide the conclusion to the story and add any finishing touches that enhance the game.
While the exact timeline for reaching v1.0 remains uncertain, Supergiant Games’ commitment to delivering a polished and immersive experience is unwavering. As development continues, the focus is on building core content, from environments to characters, weapons, Boons, story events, music, and more.
As we eagerly await Q2 2024, the world of gaming holds its breath, ready to dive into the depths of the Underworld once again. Hades 2 promises an extraordinary adventure, building on the success of the original game while venturing deeper into the heart of myth and magic.
