Hades 2 builds on the success of the original Hades, offering a more expansive experience. While the sequel isn’t necessarily bigger in terms of sheer size, it’s far more intricate and complex when it comes to how the game plays, offering deeper mechanics and more options.
As a huge fan of the first *Hades*, I’ve been playing *Hades 2*, and wow, it really builds on everything that made the original great! I’ve put together a list of seven ways *Hades 2* improves on the formula. I’ll explain what’s been expanded, how the systems are different, and just generally what makes the sequel even better than the first game.
1. More Gods & Boon Variety
New Gods & More Regional NPCs Give More Narrative & Bonus Opportunities
The first *Hades* game let players receive Boons from nine Gods, plus a few special characters offering similar benefits like Sisyphus, Eurydice, and Patroclus. *Hades 2* roughly doubles this, offering Boons from ten Gods – including new ones like Hestia and Hephaestus – and a much larger number of NPCs who can provide powerful bonuses.
A major reason for this is the increased number of areas to explore in *Hades 2*. Throughout the game’s eight regions, you’ll encounter characters like Arachne, Narcissus, and even Hades himself, alongside the ten gods who offer boons. This creates more diverse gameplay experiences, and Melinoe has access to a wider range of boons than Zagreus did in the original *Hades*.
2. More Than One Route
Bring Death to Chronos, or Save the Olympians?
A major improvement in *Hades 2* over the original *Hades* is the freedom it gives the player. Unlike Zagreus, who was limited to a single path through the Underworld, Melinoe can choose between two routes: the Underworld, with completely new areas to explore, or the Surface, leading to a confrontation with Chronos’ forces on Mount Olympus.
Running through the same areas repeatedly in games can become boring after a while. Fortunately, *Hades 2* lets you switch between different routes if you need a fresh experience – but you’ll first need to unlock the ability to progress upwards from the Crossroads.
3. The Arcana System
Unlock & Equip Cards to Gain Permanent Bonuses
The Mirror of Night let Zagreus unlock lasting upgrades for each attempt, such as improved defenses, better chances for powerful boons, and other helpful benefits. However, the process of using it wasn’t very engaging – players simply earned and spent Shadow to activate these new abilities.
In *Hades 2*, the Arcana system adds a new layer of strategy to each run. Combining cards and managing Melinoe’s Grasp feels like solving a puzzle, and it gets easier as you unlock more Arcana cards to use.
Both systems let players choose upgrades for their playthrough, but the Arcana system in Hades 2 is more enjoyable and encourages experimentation.
4. Characters From Greek Myth
There Are About 50% More Greek Mythological Characters in Hades 2
The game *Hades* did a great job of bringing classic Greek myths to life in its story. But *Hades 2* takes things even further, featuring 50% more characters and references from Greek mythology.
The game *Hades* featured over 30 characters players could engage with. Its sequel, *Hades 2*, expands on this with around 45 characters, primarily new additions to the series. While Supergiant Games takes creative freedoms, the characters are generally faithful to their original mythological roots, showcasing a remarkable level of detail and research in their development.
As an example, you could use the Knuckle Bones, a memento from Odysseus, during the battle with Polyphemus.
5. Animal Familiars
You Can’t Pet the Dog – But You Can Fight Alongside the Frog
In the game *Hades*, Zagreus has one animal companion: Cerberus, the three-headed dog who guards the Underworld. While Cerberus doesn’t accompany Zagreus on his escape attempts, Zagreus can always pet him.
In *Hades 2*, Melinoe can bring one of five Animal Familiars with her on each attempt. These Familiars provide small bonuses that can help with different ways of playing and collecting resources. To unlock them, you’ll need to find each Familiar on both paths through the game and then give them a Witch’s Delight to convince them to join you.
6. Omega Moves
Hades 2 Doubles The Number of Combat Maneuvers Available to Mel
A major upgrade in *Hades 2* compared to the original *Hades* is the wider range of combat options. While Zag in *Hades* could switch up his Attack and Special based on his chosen weapon, and fire a blood bolt with his Cast, *Hades 2*’s Melinoe has the same three attack types. However, instead of a projectile, her Cast creates a slowing circle.
If you press and hold the buttons for attacks, you’ll build up power for special Omega Attacks. These are powerful, unique spells Melinoe can cast – the specific attack changes depending on which weapon she’s currently holding, and different button combinations (like Attacks and Specials) create different effects.
This effectively lets Melinoe use twice as many attacks as Zagreus during fights. Plus, the new Magick resource adds another layer of strategy, as players balance it with their regular attacks and special Omega moves.
7. The Crossroads Hub
A Much Larger & More Interesting Hub Area
The House of Hades, the central area in *Hades 1*, is visually impressive, though somewhat compact. The main hall connects to Hades’ desk and Cerberus, while the left wing provides access to Achilles, Dusa, Thanatos, and the Administrative Chamber. On the right, you’ll find Zag’s room and the training area.
The Crossroads area in *Hades 2* is much bigger than the House of Hades was in the original *Hades*, and the character Melinoe has a lot more ways to customize her abilities and appearance.
Once you start near Melinoe’s Tent, explore the surrounding area. You’ll find the List of Minor Prophecies by the Taverna and Fishing Pier (where Eris often is), the Cauldron for casting spells, the Broker and Nemesis’ area, the Garden and Odysseus’ table, the Hot Springs, and the Training Grounds – which are much bigger than they were in the first *Hades* game.
Once you rebuild the Crossroads with Dora’s help, you can decorate and customize every part of it. This area is much bigger and more complex than the House of Hades, and you might find it difficult to leave when you finally complete *Hades 2* after spending so much time exploring.
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2025-10-07 22:07