Few games earn the right to return exactly as they were—Hades did. With Hades 2, Supergiant Games doesn’t try to outshine its predecessor through excess, but through refinement. Playing with the Nintendo Switch firmly in mind, this sequel feels less like a follow-up and more like a confident evolution of one of the most beloved roguelikes of the modern era.

A New Hero, A New Kind of Fury

This time, the spotlight shifts from Zagreus to Melinoë, the Princess of the Underworld and a wielder of dark magic. Her presence alone changes the tone of the game. Where Zagreus was fast, witty, and impulsive, Melinoë feels deliberate and focused—almost ritualistic. That shift is reflected in gameplay, where spellcasting, timing, and positioning play a larger role than pure speed.

On the Switch, this design choice feels especially smart. The controls are intuitive and comfortable whether you’re playing docked or handheld, making combat feel precise without overwhelming the player’s hands during longer sessions.

Combat That Feels Deeper, Not Busier

Hades 2 builds on the frantic, fluid combat of the original but layers in mana systems, charged abilities, and spell synergies that reward patience as much as aggression. Weapons feel distinct, and magical abilities add a strategic rhythm to each run.

What stands out most is how readable everything remains. Even during chaotic encounters, enemy telegraphs, spell effects, and movement cues are clear—an essential factor for Switch players who may be gaming on a smaller screen.

Performance and Portability: A Natural Fit

If the original Hades proved anything, it’s that Supergiant understands the Switch hardware. Hades 2 continues that tradition with sharp visuals, smooth animations, and an art style that prioritizes clarity over raw graphical power.

The game feels perfectly suited for short bursts or marathon runs alike. Whether you’re grinding out a single escape attempt during a commute or sinking hours into progression at home, Hades 2 respects the way Switch players actually play.

Storytelling That Unfolds With You

Supergiant’s trademark narrative design returns in full force. Dialogue evolves naturally with each run, characters react to your successes and failures, and the story never feels like it’s interrupting gameplay—it breathes alongside it.

The gods, spirits, and denizens you meet are as charismatic as ever, blending sharp writing with emotional weight. Even repeated failure feels meaningful, because every defeat pushes the story forward.

Sound, Style, and Soul

Darren Korb’s music once again delivers a soundtrack that’s both atmospheric and adrenaline-pumping. Paired with the game’s hand-painted visuals and expressive character designs, Hades 2 maintains a strong identity that feels timeless rather than trendy.

Final Thoughts

Hades 2 doesn’t try to reinvent what already worked—it perfects it. On the Nintendo Switch, the game feels right at home: portable, responsive, stylish, and endlessly replayable. With its deeper combat systems, compelling new protagonist, and the same narrative finesse fans fell in love with, Hades 2 stands poised to become another modern classic.

If the original Hades was lightning in a bottle, Hades 2 is that lightning refined into controlled, deliberate power—and the Switch is one of the best places to experience it. 🎮🔥