Roguelike games have captivated players for decades with their exciting blend of challenge, exploration, and random rewards. These titles, named after the influential 1980 game “Rogue,” offer unique gaming experiences where every playthrough is an unpredictable adventure. Players are forced to make the most of their skills and resources, as dying means starting from scratch.
“Hades” is an impressive experience that brilliantly combines magnificent storytelling and creative direction with the frenetic action of a roguelike. This game, created by the small studio Supergiant Games, has earned a place in the pantheon of the best indie games due to its endearing retelling of Greek mythology, its surprising depth, and its fascinating gameplay.
Players take on the role of Zagreus, the cheeky prince of darkness, as he tirelessly seeks an escape from his father’s realms, plunging into the underworld ruled by the relentless Hades. Each escape attempt becomes a demanding and fascinating trial, where defeating legions of legendary enemies is just the beginning of an incredible adventure filled with power, secrets, and a sharp sense of humor.
Setting
The setting of Hades is a true masterpiece that immerses players in a colorful and engaging underworld inspired by Greek mythology. Hades’ vast domain evokes a rich and distinctive aura that has been meticulously crafted through incredible artistic direction in every location.
The domains of the lord of darkness come to life with stunning and unique visual aesthetics that combine bright colors and ornate themes with delicate lighting and shading effects. This combination of components creates ever-changing, yet colorful, environments that possess a solemn beauty befitting a place where the dead reside.
However, Hades offers more than just a charming environment. Each area of the underworld has a distinct personality and set of dangers. Every region presents players with unique challenges and legendary threats, from the winding lava-soaked cliffs of the Underworld to the misty moors of the Asphodel plains. The variety of adversaries is equally astounding, with colossal minotaurs, fierce gorgons, and furious furies, among other mythological creatures.
Beyond the impressive environment, the atmosphere of Hades is enhanced by an evocative soundtrack that perfectly complements the game’s tempo and tone. The talented Darren Korb creates intriguing musical pieces that immerse players in an immersive experience, taking their senses to the lowest depths of the underworld.
Story
The story of Hades is an extraordinary treasure that wonderfully balances challenging roguelike gameplay. Supergiant Games has skillfully reimagined Greek mythology to create a fascinating and complex narrative that unfolds naturally as you progress through your endless quest to escape the underworld.
The cheeky and impulsive prince of darkness, Zagreus, is at the center of this epic story. His desire to flee his father’s domain, the relentless Hades, drives the main plot forward. But what starts as a simple escape mission quickly becomes a deeper investigation into the intricate family dynamics and unstable relationships that underpin the Greek pantheon.
You will uncover the complex bonds that connect and divide the gods of Olympus and their offspring as you face legions of legendary enemies and venture into the darkest corners of the underworld. Each incarnated god has a fascinating personality and a deep story that comes to light through endearing exchanges and sharp, humorous discourse.
However, Hades tells more than just a straightforward tale. With surprise discoveries, unexpected plot twists, and persistent effects that carry over multiple runs, the story expertly blends with roguelike action. Each attempt to leave the underworld yields new insights and understanding of the fundamental secrets of the Greek pantheon.
Gameplay
Hades’ gameplay combines the intense action of a dungeon crawler with the strategic nuance of a roguelike, making it an incredibly captivating experience. Supergiant Games has managed to create a combat system that is both rewarding and fluid, challenging players to perfect every move while granting them an endless supply of new abilities and powerful upgrades.
The combat system, which focuses on weapons and offers an incredible variety of offensive and defensive options, is the core of the game. Each weapon, from the Stygian Blade to the Coronacht bow, has a different playstyle and a distinct set of abilities that players must learn. This methodology encourages continuous experimentation and maintains a high level of challenge throughout numerous playthroughs.
However, Hades’ true brilliance lies in how it skillfully incorporates roguelike aspects into its combat system. Players begin their attempt to escape the underworld by carefully selecting the “boons” or blessings that the Olympian gods have bestowed upon them. These powerful additions, ranging from lethal spells to stat boosts, have the ability to significantly alter the course of combat and create new tactical options.
Due to the randomness of these boons, as well as the uncertain location of chambers and adversaries, each game is different and challenging. To maximize their advantages and adjust their gameplay as needed, players must constantly change their tactics.
Hades provides a rich growth system that allows players to modify and enhance Prince Zagreus in addition to satisfying combat. There are plenty of options available to improve your basic numbers and unlock new weapons and abilities, promoting replayability.
What I didn’t like
The lack of variation in the game environment and adversaries is one of the main complaints that can be raised. While each area of the underworld has its own beauty and dangers, some players may find facing the same legendary monsters and exploring the same areas boring after dozens of escape attempts.
Another drawback is that it’s challenging. Undoubtedly, one of the things that attracts many players to Hades is its challenging task. But some boss fights and other sections can actually be frustrating, especially early on when many of the upgrades and changes are still disabled. Some inexperienced players may feel overwhelmed by the game’s steep difficulty curve and even give up too soon.
However, some critics have noted that, while the main storyline is expertly told, it could feel too cheerful or lacking a genuine sense of danger or long-term repercussions. Even if the story is skillfully combined with gameplay, some plot twists might seem too obvious or not have the same profound effect one might anticipate from a game known for its storytelling.
Lastly, it’s crucial to note that, like other roguelikes, Hades can become boring or repetitive for players who don’t enjoy the genre’s characteristic cycle of dying and retrying. While the game has plenty of replay value, some players may eventually tire of it after playing for numerous hours.
Is it worth getting?
I wholeheartedly recommend acquiring Hades! You shouldn’t miss out on this indie gem if you appreciate compelling stories, challenging gameplay, and excellent creative direction.
Hades achieves the astounding feat of merging a deep and complex story based on Greek mythology with incredibly addictive roguelike gameplay. With its flexible weapon-based combat system and the powerful “boons” bestowed by the gods, every attempt to escape the underworld guarantees an exciting and challenging adventure. Game after game, the level of difficulty is maintained thanks to your constant need to adjust your plan in response to the arbitrary abilities granted to you.
However, Hades’ magnificent story and atmosphere set it apart from other roguelikes. The game is expertly woven into the skillful storytelling of Greek mythology, with colorful characters and intricate familial dynamics. Your ambition to uncover the secrets of the Olympian pantheon is fueled by the additional pieces that each victory and setback add to the complex puzzle surrounding them.
The outstanding artistic direction should not be overlooked, combining vivid and somber elements to create visually stunning vistas befitting the underworld. Darren Korb’s evocative soundtrack is the perfect accompaniment to the encounter.
In conclusion, Hades is a wonderful roguelike, tough and thrilling, with a fantastic story and excellent visual presentation. Don’t let it pass you by. You’ll be absorbed in it for many hours; it’s a true indie gem that raises the bar for the genre. Embark on this incredible journey without any doubts!
If you enjoyed this game and have already tried it, let us know what you thought in the comments.
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Hello, I’m Renny Castro, I’m 20 years old, and I’m studying engineering. As far back as I can remember, video games have been my passion. I love getting lost in worlds like Hollow Knight, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, The Witcher 3. I’m excited to share my experience with you about the numerous games I’ve played.
