Hades 2 is incredible. I’m sure you know this much already. The Supergiant sequel was very popular during its early access period and has only been subject to further critical acclaim in the months following its 1.0 launch. While the ending didn’t stick the landing at first, updates that came thick and fast now firmly cement this experience into all-time territory.
It’s currently only available on PC and Nintendo Switch, meaning it’s perfect for playing in the palm of your hands, thanks to the hybrid console and machines like the Steam Deck or ROG Ally. In fact, I’ve played the majority of my 100+ hours across both early access and the now finished release from the comfort of my sofa. The short yet moreish nature of each run also means you can lose hours in Hades 2 without even realising it. It’s so rewarding regardless of how much you play, which is what makes it so perfect for the festive season.
It’s All About Family
Spending time with your loved ones over Christmas is always a mixed bag. As for my own, while I love meeting up with them to spread festive cheer and catch up, there is always the possibility of having an awkward conversation about my transition or learning they’ve gone and called their newborn child Merlin. You know, like the wizard? I don’t get it either.
During our Boxing Day party a couple of years ago, most of us left when my brother started offering coke to people — an utterly diabolical thing to do at a family function. Anyway, I’m trying to say that getting together with family isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, which is also a core narrative foundation of both Hades and its sequel. Zagreus is trying to escape from the underworld that raised him, defying his titular father and opening up several cans of worms with friends and family who don’t want him to abandon them.
Melinoe, on the other hand, hasn’t met most of her family and has spent her entire life trying to free them from the clutches of Chronos. She only knows her mother, father, and brother in part due to anecdotes shared by those spared by Chronos’ wrath. I don’t think anyone in the Crossroads offered her coke while she was formulating her battle strategies, but it’s kinda similar. Hecate is also a witch, which is the lady version of a wizard. Basically identical!
In Hades 2 you’re always learning rewarding things about each character or engaging in a multitude of excellent conversations that require only a single run to unearth. There are so many big games this year that require serious time investment to sit down and enjoy, while Hades 2 offers substantial amounts of content that can be consumed at a leisurely pace. If you don’t have time for much gaming during the festive season but still want to enjoy your time with something of an unquestionably high quality, this is a great choice.
Playing The Long Game
Story and characters aside, Hades 2 also plays like a dream. You can feel like a total badass in a matter of minutes as you slice through demons and make your way towards Tartarus. With each weapon, boon, and miscellaneous equipment, you can piece together countless builds that, in the right hands, can completely break the game, or you might end up too weak and be forced to do it all over again. Either way, everything feeds into your overall progress that will go far beyond the festive season. Well, it will if you’re anything like me.
Christmas isn’t always the most relaxing time, and I have always viewed both Hades games as a way to lose myself in a compelling world with both characters and gameplay I love. An easy way to clear my head and feel at ease before I’d have to throw myself back into the thick of things. Hiding away to play video games when your family and friends are around isn’t always a good look, but with Hades 2, you can get some quick sessions in before the turkey is done cooking and the coke is brought out.
