Is Hades 2’s Supportive Shade Hiding a Deeper Family Secret?

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In essence, Hades 2‘s early access phase is chock-full of content that gives the impression it’s already a fully-fledged game. Just like its forerunner, Hades 2 incorporates numerous subtle hints and Easter eggs derived from Greek mythology. Yet, it also introduces references to its own lore, occasionally deviating from the traditional Greek myths to steer clear of awkward situations. This deviation is acceptable given the variety of interpretations in Greek myths, and Supergiant’s unique take doesn’t contradict any established mythical facts. Interestingly, it introduces a new character, the Supportive Shade, which appears to be an original creation.

In the mythical game Hades, a character called The Loyal Shade frequently appears. This figure is uniquely loyal to Zagreus and can be found in the arena of Elysium. In the Warsong Update for Hades 2, this consistent ally reappears in the Fields of Mourning. Here, Melinoe interacts with them and recognizes them as the same shade. Since Persephone’s father was a mortal farmer, there’s a widely-shared fan theory that The Loyal Shade could be Zagreus and Melinoe’s paternal grandfather. This intriguing possibility might be further developed in Hades 2.

Supergiant’s Hades and Myth

One interesting variation found in Greek mythology concerns Persephone’s paternal figure. While her mother Demeter, the goddess of the seasons, remains consistent, her father’s identity fluctuates based on the source of the story. Often, he is either Zeus or a mortal man. According to Supergiant’s portrayal in Hades, Persephone is Demeter’s child with a mortal man. This makes Zagreus and Melinoe one-quarter mortal. The mortality of Zagreus is suggested by his ability to bleed regular red blood instead of the more common golden ichor for gods, and he is known as the God of Blood and Life.

In the game Hades, you first meet the Loyal Fan during a fight between Zagreus and Theseus in Elysium’s arena. Unlike other spectators, this fan is always on Zagreus’ side, waving a banner of him. You see this character again in Hades 2, in the Fields of Mourning following Melinoe’s battle with Cerberus, located near the exit. Melinoe notes that the spirit used to reside in Elysium and can be interacted with during subsequent playthroughs. Later on, Melinoe has the option to invite the Loyal Fan to the Crossroads.

The Supportive Shade in Hades 2

In the Warsong Update, The Supportive Shade returned. Accompanying this update were new decorative items for the Crossroads titled “Toolset, Farmer’s”. Their description reads, “Rumored to have been owned by a human farmer who was acquainted with the goddess of seasons.” This strongly hints at Zagreus and Melinoe’s mortal grandparent. However, when chosen, Melinoe doesn’t appear to acknowledge that these items might have been her grandfather’s, and she remains unaware that he was a mortal altogether.

In the upcoming update for Hades 2, the return of the Supportive Shade and its link to Melinoe’s mortal grandfather might just be a coincidence. However, this connection lends credence to a widely-held fan theory that the Supportive Shade is actually Zagreus and Melinoe’s mortal grandfather. With the central conflict of Hades 2 revolving around defeating their other grandfather, the Titan of Time, it would be delightfully heartwarming if Melinoe’s other grandfather were to provide her with unconditional love and support. In mythology, Melinoe is known as a goddess of shades, and if she were to develop a bond with her mortal grandfather in the form of a shade, it would be an excellent nod to her unique relationship with shades while also reuniting part of her family.

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2025-02-28 01:00