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MONSTER

Hades II

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Hades II
Item: Hades II
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableSep 25, 2025

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperSupergiant Games

Overview

Battle beyond the Underworld using dark sorcery to take on the Titan of Time in this bewitching sequel to the award-winning rogue-like dungeon crawler.

Elsewhere

8.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Hades II is receiving rave reviews for its rich narrative and character development, praised for engaging storytelling that expands on its predecessor. Critics highlight Melinoë's quest against Chronos as a compelling journey filled with clever mythology references, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. However, some note predictability in the plot and a less impactful conclusion compared to the original. Despite these critiques, the consensus is that Hades II delivers a strong character-driven narrative, solidifying its status as a worthy successor.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Hades II is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its rich narrative and character development. Reviewers such as ComicBook and COGconnected highlight the deep and nuanced storytelling that unfolds through character interactions and lore, effectively engaging players as they explore the world. Critics like TierraGamer and Checkpoint Gaming commend the expansion of the narrative from its predecessor, focusing on Melinoë's quest against Chronos, which adds layers of complexity without overwhelming the player. The writing quality is noted to be high, with clever nods to Greek mythology, as emphasized by Wccftech and Eurogamer, who appreciate the depth and accessibility of the story for both returning players and newcomers alike. Despite the praise, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the narrative. Metro GameCentral mentions that while the story is engaging, it feels somewhat predictable and lacks the depth of its predecessor. VGC echoes this sentiment, noting that some major story beats may feel unceremonious and lacking substantial purpose. Additionally, while the revenge plot is compelling, as highlighted by The Jimquisition, it may lack the personal touch that resonated so well in the original Hades. Critics like Final Weapon express concerns about the ending undermining the narrative's themes, suggesting that while the journey is strong, the conclusion may not deliver the emotional payoff expected. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hades II offers a compelling and well-crafted narrative, with a majority appreciating the character-driven storytelling and the exploration of themes such as family and identity. Critics like IGN and GamingTrend underscore the engaging character interactions and the seamless integration of the story with gameplay, which enhances the overall experience. While there are criticisms regarding predictability and depth in certain areas, the majority of reviewers agree that the narrative is a significant strength of Hades II, solidifying its place as a worthy successor to the original game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Hades II is hailed as a "masterclass in roguelike design," with critics praising its intricate mechanics, deep build crafting, and fresh features like the Magick gauge. While the gameplay can initially feel less fluid and suffers from some pacing issues, it evolves the original with rewarding progression and enhanced strategy. Overall, it solidifies its status as a standout title, raising the bar for future games in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Hades II has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many praising its intricate design and engaging mechanics. Reviewers like ComicBook lauded the game as a "masterclass in roguelike design," highlighting the variety offered through different weapons, powers, and a flexible build system. Critics such as Wccftech and TechRadar Gaming emphasized the deeper build crafting system and strategic depth introduced in this sequel, noting that combat feels more methodical and rewarding. The introduction of new mechanics, like the Magick gauge and the Arcana system, has been well-received, providing players with fresh ways to approach combat and strategy. Critics like CGMagazine and Gaming Nexus appreciated the tight controls and fluid movement, which enhance the overall experience and accessibility for both newcomers and veterans alike. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics pointed out a few drawbacks in the gameplay experience. For instance, COGconnected mentioned that combat can feel less fluid initially, which may pose a challenge for new players. Additionally, VGC noted that while the core gameplay loop remains familiar, it suffers from unnecessary busywork and longer run times, which could detract from the overall pacing of the game. Metro GameCentral also echoed concerns regarding the bullet hell approach, which can make encounters difficult to follow at times. These criticisms suggest that while the gameplay is rich and engaging, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hades II presents a remarkable evolution of its predecessor, with many considering it a masterpiece in the roguelike genre. Reviewers like Final Weapon and RPG Site emphasized the satisfying progression system and the variety of combat options that keep players engaged and motivated to experiment with different builds. The majority of critics agree that the game successfully retains the addictive gameplay of the original while introducing new features that enhance the experience, making each run feel unique and rewarding. With a strong emphasis on strategy and depth, Hades II has set a high bar for future entries in the genre, solidifying its place as a standout title in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Hades II is a visual triumph, earning rave reviews for its stunning art style and immersive atmosphere. Critics praise its polished graphics, vibrant palettes, and smooth performance—even on older hardware like the Nintendo Switch 2. While some noted issues with visual clarity and overwhelming art styles during combat, the overall consensus highlights its exceptional design and detail, cementing it as a captivating sequel.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Hades II have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many praising its stunning art style and immersive atmosphere. Reviewers from COGconnected and ComicBook noted the game's polished visuals and enhanced magical palette, which contribute to a captivating experience. TierraGamer emphasized the improved art design, while Wccftech highlighted the game's ability to maintain vibrant visuals even on older hardware. Critics like Eurogamer and Game Informer echoed these sentiments, commending the beautiful character designs and environments that reflect the game's mythological roots. The high frame rates and smooth performance, especially on the Nintendo Switch 2, were frequently mentioned, with CGMagazine and Gaming Nexus noting impressive technical execution that enhances the overall visual experience. Despite the widespread acclaim, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual design. Metro GameCentral mentioned that while the environments are beautifully crafted, they can be visually confusing, particularly in handheld mode, where color contrast between enemies and backgrounds may lead to gameplay difficulties. Additionally, GamingTrend noted that the combination of 2D and 3D art styles, while visually stunning, could sometimes be overwhelming during combat scenarios. Nintenduo also pointed out limitations in graphical options on the Nintendo Switch 2, suggesting that while the visuals are impressive, there may be room for further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hades II excels in its graphics and visual design, successfully building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and RPG Site, highlighted the game's exceptional art direction and attention to detail, which significantly enhance the immersive experience. While a few concerns about visual clarity and performance on specific hardware were raised, they did not overshadow the general appreciation for the game's aesthetic achievements. With its vibrant colors, intricate character designs, and a unique artistic style, Hades II is celebrated as a visual delight that captivates players and contributes meaningfully to its identity as a sequel.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Hades II's sound design and music, praised as a masterpiece, feature immersive tracks that enhance gameplay and storytelling. Critics laud Darren Korb's dynamic compositions and high-quality voice acting, though some note a darker tone that may not appeal to all. Overall, the audio experience elevates the game, solidifying its place as a remarkable follow-up to its predecessor.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Hades II have been overwhelmingly praised by critics, with many highlighting the exceptional quality and immersive nature of the audio experience. Reviewers like COGconnected and TierraGamer noted the standout tracks, particularly during intense boss fights, which significantly contribute to the game's atmosphere. The soundtrack, composed by Darren Korb, has been described as beautifully crafted, with a mix of calm melodies and adrenaline-pumping tracks that enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics such as Game Informer and IGN emphasized the emotional resonance of the music, which blends various styles to create a unique soundscape, further enriching the narrative and player engagement. Additionally, the fully voice-acted dialogue, as pointed out by ComicBook and NintendoWorldReport, adds depth to the characters and enhances the storytelling, making the audio experience a vital component of the game. While the majority of reviews are positive, a few critics have pointed out areas for improvement or have provided more nuanced opinions. For instance, The Jimquisition did not delve deeply into the sound design but acknowledged the high-quality voice acting, suggesting that while it is commendable, it may not fully encompass the totality of the audio experience. Some critics, like RPG Site, noted that the soundtrack is darker and more industrial than its predecessor, which may not appeal to all players. However, these critiques are relatively minor compared to the overall acclaim the sound design and music have received. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Hades II are nothing short of a masterpiece. The combination of dynamic compositions, high-quality voice acting, and the ability to enhance gameplay and storytelling has left a lasting impression on reviewers. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Eurogamer emphasized how the music is intricately woven into the gameplay, with dynamic changes that respond to player actions, further solidifying its role in creating an immersive atmosphere. Overall, Hades II has successfully built upon its predecessor's legacy, establishing an audio experience that is celebrated across the board.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Hades II is widely hailed as a masterpiece, enhancing gameplay with unique, choice-driven dialogue that boosts replayability and immersion. Critics laud standout performances by Judy Alice Lee and Logan Cunningham, which deepen the narrative and enrich the overall experience. While some minor critiques mention a few characters feeling less developed and potential pacing issues, they are overshadowed by the overwhelming acclaim. Overall, the voice acting is a defining feature that significantly elevates Hades II, making it a standout title in the gaming landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Hades II has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many praising it as a masterpiece. Reviewers like ComicBook and Wccftech highlight the impressive quality of the performances, particularly noting how unique lines for bosses adapt based on player choices, which enhances replayability and immersion. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and Final Weapon commend the talented cast, specifically Judy Alice Lee's portrayal of Melinoë and Logan Cunningham's roles as Chronos and Hades, which add significant depth to the narrative. The extensive dialogue and character interactions have been described as enriching the storytelling experience, with many reviewers, including IGN and Gaming Nexus, emphasizing that the voice acting elevates the overall engagement and emotional depth of the game. While the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, there are minor critiques worth noting. Some critics did not specify any particular shortcomings but hinted at the potential for a few characters to feel less developed compared to the standout performances. However, these criticisms are largely overshadowed by the general acclaim for the voice acting quality. For instance, while Eurogamer and Noisy Pixel recognize the top-notch voice acting, they also suggest that the sheer volume of dialogue may lead to occasional pacing issues in the narrative flow, though this is a minor concern in the grand scheme of the game's success. Overall, the critics unanimously agree that the voice acting in Hades II is exceptional, with many considering it a highlight of the game. The performances not only bring the characters to life but also significantly enhance the storytelling, creating a rich and immersive experience for players. Reviewers like GamingTrend and PCMag encapsulate this sentiment by noting how the voice acting contributes to the emotional depth and character development, solidifying Hades II as a standout title in terms of voice performance. The collective praise indicates that the voice acting is a defining feature of the game, elevating it to a level of excellence that resonates strongly with both critics and players alike.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Hades II impresses with flawless technical performance on both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, earning rave reviews for its stability and smooth 60 FPS gameplay. While minor readability issues in handheld mode were noted, they don’t overshadow the game's overall polish and optimization. Critics overwhelmingly agree: Hades II is a standout title that effectively showcases the strengths of both platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Hades II has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across both the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2 platforms. Reviewers like ComicBook and TierraGamer praised the game for its polished and stable performance, with no significant technical issues reported. Wccftech highlighted that the game runs smoothly at 60 FPS on the Nintendo Switch, showcasing its ability to perform well even on older hardware. On the Switch 2, critics such as CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming noted the game’s rock-solid performance, emphasizing high frame rates and responsive controls. This sentiment is echoed by multiple sources, including Eurogamer and Game Informer, who remarked on the game's stability and smooth experience throughout gameplay. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out minor issues that could affect the gameplay experience. IGN noted that while Hades II performs well on both the Switch and Switch 2, there are some readability issues in portable mode, particularly during intense boss fights. Metro GameCentral echoed this concern, mentioning visibility and HUD size issues in handheld mode that could detract from the experience. Additionally, GamingTrend acknowledged some visual clutter that might affect gameplay clarity. However, these criticisms seem to be relatively isolated, as most reviewers did not find them significant enough to overshadow the overall positive technical performance. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Hades II delivers a strong technical performance across both Nintendo platforms, with the majority highlighting its stability and smooth gameplay. The game is described as polished, with no significant technical issues reported by many, including RPG Site and Siliconera, who emphasized its flawless performance on the Switch 2. While a few minor issues were noted, they do not significantly detract from the overall experience, reinforcing the sentiment that Hades II is a well-optimized title that successfully showcases the capabilities of both the Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hades II is hailed as a replayability masterpiece, with critics praising its addictive roguelike mechanics and diverse build options. The game’s design fosters experimentation, keeping each run fresh and rewarding. While some lament tedious grind elements, the overwhelming consensus celebrates its engaging content and progression. In short, Hades II is a must-play for both newcomers and veterans, promising endless new experiences with every playthrough.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The consensus among critics regarding the replay value of Hades II is overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers praising the game's design that encourages multiple playthroughs. Critics from COGconnected and ComicBook highlighted the addictive loop and roguelike mechanics that make each run feel worthwhile and engaging. TierraGamer and Wccftech noted the expansive content and deeper build crafting, emphasizing the variety of weapons and strategies available to players. The introduction of modifiers, persistent unlocks, and cross-progression, as mentioned by CGMagazine, further enhances the experience, allowing players to explore different paths and approaches. The game's ability to keep each run fresh and rewarding, as pointed out by Game Informer and IGN, solidifies its status as a title with high replay value. However, a few critics did voice concerns regarding potential drawbacks. RPG Fan mentioned that while the replay value is significant, some players might find the grind for unlocking routes tedious. VGC echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the game encourages replayability, certain busywork elements could detract from the overall experience. This indicates that while the core mechanics and content are strong, there are aspects that may frustrate players seeking a more streamlined experience. Overall, the majority of critics agree that Hades II offers a masterpiece-level replay value, making it a standout title in the roguelike genre. The game's design fosters a rich environment for experimentation and exploration, as noted by critics like Dexerto and Final Weapon, who described it as nearly infinitely replayable. With its engaging mechanics, varied builds, and rewarding progression loop, Hades II is positioned as a must-play for both newcomers and veterans alike, ensuring that players will find new experiences in each run. The collective enthusiasm from critics underscores the game's success in delivering a captivating and replayable experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Hades II is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising it as a masterpiece and a significant improvement over its predecessor. Reviewers such as ComicBook and TierraGamer highlight the game's impressive gameplay, captivating story, and stunning presentation, with the latter calling it one of the best games of 2025. Critics from COGconnected and Wccftech also emphasize the addictive gameplay and charm retained from the original while appreciating the new elements introduced. The game’s art and design have been frequently lauded, with Checkpoint Gaming noting its beautiful visuals and rich narrative, setting a new standard for the roguelike genre. This collective admiration positions Hades II as a must-play title for both newcomers and returning fans. However, not all reviews are uniformly glowing. Some critics express reservations about the game's innovation and emotional depth compared to its predecessor. For instance, Metro GameCentral mentions that while Hades II expands on the original, it may feel underwhelming for those not already enamored with the first game. VGC echoes this sentiment, noting that the sequel struggles to match the emotional resonance of Hades. Endless Mode also points out that while the game resonates with its predecessor's themes, it may come across as an echo rather than offering a wholly original experience. Such critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, it may not fully escape the shadow of its predecessor for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Hades II is a remarkable sequel that successfully builds on the strengths of the original game, with many deeming it a masterpiece. Reviewers like IGN and Game Informer commend its rich storytelling and engaging gameplay, while others like Gaming Nexus and RPG Site highlight its artistic design and mechanics as standout features. Despite some criticisms regarding innovation and emotional depth, the majority of critics agree that Hades II is a worthy successor that enhances the roguelike experience, making it a highly recommended title for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

Hades II is hailed as a masterpiece and a significant upgrade from its predecessor, with critics praising its gameplay, story, and stunning visuals. While some express concerns about its innovation and emotional depth, the overall consensus is that it’s a must-play for fans, setting a new standard in the roguelike genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

107 reviews found

100

Dexerto

Sep 24, 2025