Why I Was Wrong About Hades

May Zeus Strike Me Down

It's not often that such established studios take on the roguelike genre, as it is widely known to be rather unwelcoming. As such, most are indie darlings that were made on a shoestring budget, and any positives are discovered by looking past inconsistent visuals, underwhelming music and the distinct feeling of 'what could have been'.

Instead of falling into traps like these, Hades merely hops over them as if they were never there. Supergiant --known for such titles as Bastion, Transistor and the criminally overlooked Pyre before this-- have always wonderfully merged the line between innovative gameplay and near-flawless presentation.

Hades is a visual marvel, with a murky, yet steadfast, colour palette making each new biome, character and item feel like a significant source of atmosphere. Voice acting is excellent, and the dialogue spoken carries a wonderful tale; something few expect in a genre such as the roguelike one.

In many ways, the story of Hades is at the forefront above all else. Even failure is lovingly baked into the narrative, with friends and foe alike remembering previous attempts and consoling or criticising you respectively. Dying is an essential step in seeing the story to its true potential, so you're never punished, mocked or guilt-tripped into thinking that it's anything else.

Despite its roguish reputation and guilt-by-association to far more uninviting games in the genre, Hades is never punishing, nor is it unwelcoming. It is welcoming, and by introducing upgrades, refreshing gameplay quirks and the deliberately repetitive nature of the level designing a way that's not overwhelming, the promise of certain death is far from intimidating.

Death is an alluring, yet difficult roadblock that will feel so satisfying when eventually overcome.

Hades has the potential to surprise perhaps more than any other game this decade. It will entice roguelike fans for its repetitive, randomly-generated level design, yet those who play games for escapism and storytelling will also find something to truly adore.

I'm thrilled to say I was wrong about Hades. Please don't send me to the underworld to atone for my sins.