Hades Game Review

Hades, developed by Supergiant Games, is a rogue-like dungeon crawler that took the gaming world by storm with its fast-paced action, deep narrative, and stunning presentation. Released in early access in 2018 and fully launched in 2020, the game quickly became a benchmark for the genre, setting new standards for storytelling and gameplay integration. It has captivated players with its unique take on Greek mythology, blending hack-and-slash combat with a compelling, ever-evolving narrative.

Unlike many rogue-likes that focus solely on mechanics, Hades offers an engaging storyline that unfolds gradually as the player progresses. The game follows Zagreus, the rebellious son of Hades, who seeks to escape the Underworld and uncover the truth about his origins. Every run, regardless of failure or success, contributes to the story, keeping players invested in both gameplay and character development.

Plot and Atmosphere

Hades masterfully reimagines Greek mythology, presenting a fresh and engaging perspective on familiar deities and legends. Players step into the role of Zagreus, the prince of the Underworld, who is determined to defy his father and escape to the surface. As he battles his way through the ever-changing labyrinth of the Underworld, he encounters Olympian gods, each offering their unique boons and abilities to aid in his quest.

The game’s narrative is rich and immersive, with dynamic character interactions that evolve over multiple playthroughs. Every death results in Zagreus returning to the House of Hades, where he engages in new conversations with gods, shades, and other inhabitants of the Underworld. These interactions build on previous encounters, creating an evolving world that feels alive and reactive.

Atmospherically, Hades thrives on its vivid depiction of the Underworld, balancing dark, oppressive environments with the celestial brilliance of the gods. The tone is further enhanced by sharp writing and exceptional voice acting, which bring the characters to life and make every interaction meaningful.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Hades is a rogue-like that combines fluid, responsive combat with deep progression mechanics. Players control Zagreus as he battles through procedurally generated rooms, facing waves of enemies and challenging bosses. The fast-paced combat feels incredibly smooth, with tight controls that allow for rapid movement, dodging, and attacking. Zagreus wields a variety of weapons, each offering unique playstyles, from the swift Stygian Blade to the powerful Adamant Rail.

One of the game’s standout features is the Boon system, which allows players to receive upgrades from Olympian gods. These boons significantly alter Zagreus’s abilities, encouraging experimentation and strategic planning. Each run presents a new combination of upgrades, making every attempt at escaping feel distinct and engaging.

The Mirror of Night provides a persistent progression system, allowing players to unlock permanent upgrades that enhance Zagreus’s capabilities. This ensures that even failed runs contribute to long-term growth, reducing frustration and encouraging players to keep pushing forward.

Additionally, the Pact of Punishment introduces difficulty modifiers, providing extra challenges for those who seek greater rewards. This system extends the game’s lifespan, catering to both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts looking for high-stakes encounters.

Graphics and Visual Style

Hades stands out with its hand-drawn art style, which exudes personality and charm. Supergiant Games has a distinct aesthetic, and Hades continues this tradition with beautifully illustrated environments, expressive character designs, and fluid animations. The Underworld is visually striking, with each biome—Tartarus, Asphodel, Elysium, and the Temple of Styx—offering unique colour palettes and themes.

The character designs are particularly noteworthy, as they breathe new life into well-known figures from Greek mythology. Each god and foe is depicted with intricate details, blending traditional iconography with a modern artistic twist. From the regal presence of Zeus to the enigmatic allure of Nyx, every character feels distinct and memorable.

The animations are fluid and polished, making combat visually satisfying. Special effects for attacks and abilities add to the spectacle, ensuring that every battle feels dynamic and exhilarating. The attention to detail in the game’s visual presentation makes it a feast for the eyes from start to finish.

Music and Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Hades, composed by Darren Korb, is nothing short of phenomenal. The music seamlessly blends rock, electronic, and orchestral elements, creating a soundscape that perfectly complements the game’s mythological setting. The dynamic soundtrack adapts to the intensity of combat, heightening the sense of urgency during battles and providing atmospheric depth during calmer moments.

Each biome features its own musical themes, reinforcing the uniqueness of every region within the Underworld. The track “No Escape” stands out as an iconic piece, embodying the relentless struggle of Zagreus’s journey while capturing the grandeur of the gods.

Voice acting in Hades is equally impressive, with every character brought to life through stellar performances. Logan Cunningham’s portrayal of Hades, along with other voice actors’ renditions of characters like Zagreus, Nyx, and Meg, adds depth to the narrative. The seamless integration of music, sound design, and voice acting creates an immersive audio experience that enhances every aspect of the game.

Difficulty and Replayability

Hades strikes a perfect balance between challenge and accessibility, making it appealing to a wide range of players. The combat mechanics are easy to grasp but difficult to master, ensuring that each run presents new obstacles and learning opportunities. The difficulty gradually increases as Zagreus progresses, with bosses and enemies adapting to the player’s growth.

The game’s replayability is one of its strongest aspects. The constantly shifting Underworld, coupled with the variety of weapons, boons, and upgrades, ensures that no two runs are the same. Players are encouraged to experiment with different builds, unlocking new strategies and refining their skills.

The epilogue and post-game content provide further incentives for continued play. Even after completing the main story, additional dialogue, challenges, and rewards keep players engaged, making Hades a game that remains compelling long after the credits roll.

Achievements and Awards

Hades has been met with universal acclaim, earning numerous accolades and industry awards. It won multiple Game of the Year awards from prestigious outlets, including IGN and The Game Awards 2020. The game’s innovative storytelling and gameplay also earned it recognition at the BAFTA Game Awards and the DICE Awards.

Its success extends beyond critical acclaim, as Hades has been embraced by the gaming community for its depth, artistry, and replayability. It stands as a shining example of how indie developers can push boundaries and deliver experiences that rival even the biggest AAA titles.