After 75 Hours in Hades 2’s Early Access, I’m Prioritizing This Route in 1.0

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The full version of Hades 2 is launching soon, and the first reviews are incredible – it’s already shaping up to be one of my favorite games of 2025. I’ve been playing the Early Access version since it came out, and I’ve put over 75 hours into it! I keep trying to stop playing, but the beautiful art, fantastic voice acting, tough but rewarding combat, and addictive gameplay always draw me back in for ‘just one more run.’ I’m incredibly excited to finally play the complete game.

I don’t typically enjoy roguelike games – I usually don’t like the idea of losing progress and starting over. But Supergiant Games has made the Early Access version of *Hades 2* in a way that makes even difficult moments feel good. Every time my character dies, I learn something new, and every battle feels carefully designed. Returning to the game’s hub world always makes me feel closer to the story and the character Melinoe. It’s been exciting to watch the game develop, and with the full version almost here, I’m already thinking about how I want to play it first.

The *Hades* games are about more than just getting through challenges – they’re about making choices that matter. *Hades 2* lets you progress in two main ways: the classic Underworld path and a brand new Olympus route. You’ll need to explore both to experience everything the game offers. After spending a lot of time playing, I’ve found one path is best for new players, and I think you’ll agree if you’re starting fresh or returning from Early Access.

Pros and Cons of The Underworld and Olympus Routes in Hades 2

The Underworld Route

Players returning to the world of *Hades* will quickly feel at home in the Underworld. It’s structured like Zagreus’s original journey through challenging levels like Tartarus and Asphodel, demanding quick reactions and smart use of resources. This path is also perfect for new players, as it gently introduces the game’s combat system and allows you to earn helpful boons from the Olympian gods at a comfortable pace.

While the Underworld in *Hades 2* offers a lot of replayability, it does have its boundaries. After many attempts, runs can start to feel similar, and enemy encounters become less surprising. You’ll gain access to new weapons and build relationships with characters like Nemesis, Arachne, and Narcissus, but these interactions eventually reach a limit. It’s still a fulfilling experience with a lot of story to uncover, but it doesn’t stay completely new and exciting forever.

The Olympus Route

The Olympus path in *Hades 2* truly feels like a fresh start. It features completely new environments, gameplay elements, and a cast of Olympian gods who offer powerful and diverse boons. Plus, it’s the only way to collect every weapon in the game, so it’s crucial if you want to keep progressing and mastering everything *Hades 2* has to offer.

Let me be clear: playing through the Olympus route is *tough*. The enemies come at you fast and hard, and honestly, it felt a little off that some characters I really liked weren’t around. Nemesis, who’s been a standout in the early access version of *Hades 2*, is completely missing from this path. And depending on how you’ve unlocked things, you’ll see less of Chaos too. If you’re hoping to experience the story alongside a good challenge, Olympus might not be the best place to start – those missing characters definitely impact the overall experience.

Why I’m Taking The Underworld Route in Hades 2 1.0, And You Should, Too

From the moment I start version 1.0, I’m diving right back into the world of *Hades*, and I highly recommend you do too – whether you’re a long-time player or completely new to the game.

  • The Learning Curve: This point is particularly significant for me when making this recommendation. Even if you’re comfortable with roguelike RPGs, Hades 2’s systems stack quickly: new currencies, weapon upgrades, Arcana cards, incantations, and resource farming. It’s a lot to juggle, and the Underworld route eases you into these mechanics far more smoothly than Olympus. Runs are challenging but fair, with just enough variety to teach you how the game wants to be played without overwhelming you.
  • The Story of Hades: The Underworld isn’t just familiar mechanically. It’s also narratively rich. Melinoe’s encounters here shed light on the fates of beloved characters from the first Hades, while also unpacking the circumstances that led to her rise as protagonist. If you want to understand why you’re fighting and how this sequel expands the mythology of the House of Hades, you’ll find that foundation in the Underworld. The encounters on this route don’t just pop up for flavor; they flesh out the stakes of the conflict.
  • Mandatory, but Convenient: You can’t unlock the Olympus route without progressing through the Underworld first. That alone makes a practical choice: you’ll have to spend time here no matter what, so why not commit to seeing it through before moving on?

The Long Road Ahead of Hades 2 Players

What makes *Hades 2* so good is that it doesn’t force you to commit to a single path. Both the Underworld and Olympus routes are important, offering unique gameplay and rewards, and they both add to the overall experience. When the full game launches, the Underworld feels more accessible – it eases you into the complex game mechanics and provides a strong story connection to the first *Hades*. After playing the Early Access version, I’m choosing to focus on the Underworld first. I know Olympus will be there with plenty of new challenges and rewards, but I think I’ll enjoy it even more after I’ve fully explored the Underworld.

What makes *Hades 2* so enjoyable is that it values both careful planning and determination. It’s a challenging game with lengthy runs and unpredictable gods, but your decisions truly matter and change how the story unfolds. I’m excited to share that the game is finished, and I hope to see you exploring the Underworld!

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2025-09-25 03:04