Hades II Review – A Mythic Masterpiece That Redefines Roguelike Perfection

Hades II, released on May 5, 2025, for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch, is Supergiant Games’ triumphant sequel to their 2020 roguelike hit. Building on the original’s addictive gameplay and rich storytelling, this follow-up introduces Melinoë, the witch-princess of the Underworld, in a sprawling mythological adventure. Earning a stellar 94/100 (Universal Acclaim), Hades II refines its predecessor’s formula with deeper mechanics, a captivating narrative, and breathtaking presentation, cementing Supergiant as a storytelling powerhouse. While minor balance issues in early patches sparked debate, this is a near-perfect evolution that sets a new standard for the genre in 2025.

A Mythic Quest Through Time and Death Hades II follows Melinoë, sister of Zagreus, as she battles the Titan Chronos, who’s seized the Underworld and imprisoned Hades. The 20–40-hour campaign (depending on progression) weaves Greek mythology with a darker, more introspective tone, exploring themes of family, vengeance, and destiny. Melinoë’s journey spans vibrant locales—Underworld depths, Olympian peaks, and time-warped ruins—brought to life by dynamic NPC interactions with gods like Apollo and Hecate. The narrative shines through fully voiced dialogue and branching choices, offering emotional depth that surpasses the original. While the story’s complexity can overwhelm in early runs, its gradual unraveling rewards persistence. X posts rave about the writing: “Melinoë’s story hits harder than Zagreus’s—Supergiant nailed it!” Compared to 2025’s Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter, Hades II’s narrative is more accessible yet equally gripping, making every run feel purposeful.

Gameplay That Dances with Divinity Hades II refines the roguelike formula with fast-paced, isometric combat and a dizzying array of build options. Melinoë wields weapons like the Witch Staff and Moonstone Axe, each with unique movesets enhanced by “Arcana Cards” that grant passive buffs. Boons from Olympian gods—now with dual-god synergies, like Zeus and Poseidon’s lightning-tide combos—create endless build variety. New “Magick” mechanics let players cast powerful spells, adding strategic depth to the hack-and-slash chaos. Runs are varied by randomized rooms, enemy patterns, and a crafting system for permanent upgrades, ensuring no two attempts feel identical. The difficulty is steep but fair, with accessibility options like “God Mode” for reduced damage and customizable controls. The absence of multiplayer is a minor gripe, but the robust endgame, with new challenges post-credits, keeps players hooked. X users praise the depth: “The boon combos are insane—every run feels fresh!” Compared to Returnal, Hades II is more forgiving but equally addictive, though some noted balance issues with certain bosses in early builds, later patched.

A Visual and Auditory Triumph Visually, Hades II is a masterpiece, running at 4K/60 FPS on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, with a 1080p/60 FPS Switch version that holds up admirably. Supergiant’s hand-painted art style dazzles, with lush environments—fiery Tartarus, glowing Elysium—and fluid character animations. Melinoë’s expressive design and enemy visuals, like Chronos’s towering form, are stunning. The soundtrack, composed by Darren Korb, blends ethereal vocals and pulsing rock, elevating every battle. Sound design, from spell casts to enemy roars, is crisp, and PS5’s DualSense haptics make each attack tactile. Technical performance is near-flawless, with only minor PC stuttering reported in crowded scenes, swiftly patched. Compared to 2025’s Silent Hill f, Hades II’s vibrant palette contrasts its darker tone, creating a unique aesthetic.

A Genre-Defining Sequel Priced at $40, Hades II offers immense value, with extras like a digital soundtrack and artbook enhancing the package. Cross-progression across platforms and regular updates with new content keep the community engaged. X feedback is ecstatic: “Hades II is everything I wanted—Supergiant outdid themselves!” Minor critiques focus on the learning curve and early balance hiccups, but these fade against the game’s brilliance. Compared to Slay the Spire’s deck-building, Hades II’s action focus feels more immediate and rewarding.

Hades II earns its 94/100 for its masterful blend of tight gameplay, rich storytelling, and stunning presentation, making it a must-play for roguelike fans and newcomers alike. While not perfect, its ambition and polish make it one of 2025’s finest, proving Supergiant’s mastery. Here’s to more runs in the Underworld.