Supergiant Games has launched "Hades II," the sequel to the award-winning 2020 game "Hades," in an early-access format as of May 13, 2024. This action game, inspired by Greek mythology, follows the character Melinoë on her quest for revenge against Chronos, the Titan who personifies time. Unlike its predecessor, which featured Zagreus trying to escape the Underworld, "Hades II" allows players to assume the role of Melinoë, who is believed to possibly be a syncretization of Persephone. In the narrative, Chronos has escaped his confinement and taken Hades hostage, prompting Melinoë to enter the underworld to save her father and defeat her grandfather.
"Hades II" is currently available for purchase in an unfinished, "early access" state, enabling the developers to gather player feedback and refine the game. The gameplay involves navigating through changing dungeon rooms filled with mythological threats. Each death in the game resets the power-ups gained, challenging players to progress through their skill enhancement. The sequel also introduces new characters, expanded dialogues, and interactive elements that respond to player actions, aiming to immerse players deeply into its mythologically charged universe.
The game's development studio, Supergiant Games, seeks to surpass the critical acclaim of its first release by enriching the game's mythological content and interactive gameplay features. Even in its current incomplete form, "Hades II" promises to engage players for dozens of hours with its intricate narrative and dynamic combat system.