Hades 2 Lotus

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

06-01-2025

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Supergiant Games' Hades took the gaming world by storm, and the anticipation for its sequel, Hades II, is palpable. While still in early access, the recently released Hades II build offers a tantalizing glimpse into what’s to come, particularly introducing the intriguing new character, Melinoë. This isn't just a re-skin; Hades II feels like a significant evolution of the original, building upon its strengths while introducing compelling new mechanics.

Melinoë: A Different Kind of Hero

Unlike Zagreus, the fiery protagonist of the original, Melinoë, daughter of Hades and Persephone, brings a different approach to the Underworld. Her playstyle revolves around summoning and controlling spectral allies, adding a unique strategic layer to combat. While the familiar rogue-like structure remains, her abilities encourage a more methodical, crowd-control focused approach compared to Zagreus' direct, aggressive style. This shift subtly alters the pacing and flow of combat, making each run feel distinctly different.

A Deeper Dive into the Underworld

The early access build showcases expanded areas of the Underworld, adding both visual and narrative depth. While familiar locales are present, the updated aesthetic and the introduction of new environments hint at a larger, more intricate world to explore. The sense of discovery and the gradual unveiling of the story are cleverly maintained, keeping players engaged and eager to delve deeper.

Refined Combat and Improved Systems

While the core gameplay loop remains instantly recognizable to Hades veterans, Hades II demonstrates a clear refinement in its mechanics. Combat feels more fluid and responsive, with improved animations and a greater emphasis on strategic positioning and timing. The addition of new weapon types and abilities adds considerable depth to the combat system, ensuring that repeated playthroughs remain challenging and engaging. The upgrade systems appear streamlined, though still deep, allowing players to customize their build more effectively.

A Promising Sequel

Hades II in its early access stage is a promising glimpse into a compelling sequel. While the full experience is still under development, the foundations are undeniably strong. The introduction of Melinoë, the expansion of the Underworld, and the refinement of core gameplay mechanics all point towards a worthy successor to the acclaimed original. The journey through the Underworld promises to be both challenging and richly rewarding. The wait for the full release will undoubtedly be filled with anticipation.