Hades! A Roguelike Dungeon Crawler Where Every Run is a Mythological Marathon

Prepare yourself for an experience steeped in Greek mythology and dripping with satisfying action: Hades is not your average dungeon crawler. Developed by Supergiant Games, the studio known for critically acclaimed titles like Bastion and Transistor, Hades plunges you into the depths of the Underworld as Zagreus, son of Hades himself.

But this isn’t some filial bonding exercise; Zagreus is determined to escape his father’s oppressive realm and ascend to Mount Olympus. Every attempt at escape becomes a thrilling roguelike run through procedurally generated chambers filled with mythical beasts, Olympian gods lending a hand (or weapon), and the ever-present threat of Hades himself trying to stop your ascent.

The narrative in Hades is as gripping as its combat. You are not merely slashing and dashing; you are unraveling a compelling story of familial strife, ambition, and rebellion against fate. Dialogue between Zagreus and the vibrant cast of Olympian gods – Zeus, Poseidon, Athena, Ares, and more – adds depth and humor to the experience. Each god offers unique boons that alter your playstyle, encouraging experimentation and replayability.

Unleashing Fury: The Combat System’s Delightful Depth

Hades’ combat is a frenetic ballet of swordplay, special abilities (called “Boons”), and strategic positioning. Zagreus wields the Infernal Blade, which allows for quick slashes, powerful dashes, and devastating charged attacks.

As you progress, you unlock new weapons like the Heart-Seeking Bow, the Adamant Rail, and the Twin Fists of Malphon. Each weapon has unique attack patterns and upgrades, ensuring that your playstyle evolves alongside Zagreus’ journey.

Adding layers to the combat are the Boons bestowed upon you by the Olympian gods.

• Zeus’ Lightning Bolt adds electrifying damage to your attacks,

• Poseidon’s Tidal Wave unleashes a torrent of water, staggering enemies and leaving them vulnerable.

• Athena’s Divine Dash grants temporary invulnerability, allowing for daring maneuvers and risky escapes.

These are just a few examples; the sheer variety of Boons encourages you to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for your preferred playstyle.

Death, Not Defeat: The Beauty of the Roguelike Cycle

Hades’ roguelike nature is its defining characteristic. Every attempt at escaping the Underworld is unique. The layout of chambers, enemy types, and even the Olympian gods who offer their Boons are randomized. This ensures that no two runs are ever the same.

Death, however, is not the end but a stepping stone on Zagreus’ path. When you fall, you return to your father’s domain (with some delightful banter), retaining some of your collected currency and resources.

These can be used to upgrade weapons, unlock new Boons, and even purchase permanent upgrades that make each subsequent run slightly easier. This progressive system encourages experimentation and rewards persistence, making every loss feel like a learning experience rather than a frustrating setback.

A Feast for the Senses: Audiovisual Excellence

Hades’ presentation is truly exceptional. The game boasts a striking hand-drawn art style, bringing the denizens of the Underworld to life with vibrant colors and detailed character designs.

The soundtrack, composed by Darren Korb (who also scored Bastion and Transistor), perfectly complements the action and narrative, seamlessly blending ancient Greek melodies with modern electronic beats.

The voice acting is stellar, with each Olympian god imbued with a unique personality that shines through their dialogue. From Zeus’ booming laughter to Persephone’s melancholic wisdom, every character feels distinctly memorable.

Key Features that Elevate Hades:

Conclusion: A Modern Classic for Action Fans

Hades is not simply a game; it’s an experience.

It seamlessly blends the addictive nature of roguelikes with a captivating narrative, exhilarating combat, and breathtaking presentation. Whether you are a seasoned dungeon crawler or new to the genre, Hades will captivate you from the first swing of Zagreus’ Infernal Blade to the final confrontation with his formidable father. Prepare to be enthralled by the Underworld; this is a journey you won’t soon forget.