This is more me than the review but like many, I loved Hades on Nintendo Switch. I mean countless hours spent on working my way through the underworld and tasting that sweet fresh air like Orpheus did. With that said, I love it way more now that it is on PS5. The controls feel better, and the graphics are amazing and will jump on Hades whenever I need some me time. Even though it has been out since last year, it is defiantly the best PS5 game of August.
PlayStation 5 users that have been clamoring for a roguelike are in luck. Hades, which had been previously released on the PC and Switch, has now been ported over to Sony’s newest console.
The core game and experience remain intact from the previous iterations. Think of a hack-and-slash role-playing game blended with an isometric perspective.
Let’s dive into this Underworld adventure.
The Story of Hades
The player takes on the mantle of Zagreus. He’s the son of Hades, the titular villain. Zagreus wants out of the Underworld to reunite with his mother Persephone on the surface.
Of course, his father isn’t particularly keen on his son barging out of his dreary domain. Denizens of the underworld unite to hinder Zagreus’ escape plan. They’re tough, vast in numbers and prepared to make Zagreus dead. Perhaps deader, given his residency and lineage?
Zagreus’ journey will lead him into a showdown his father. Win, and he will learn the truth behind his mother’s exodus.
Without spoiling anything, we will advise his adventure is ultimately cyclical regarding the end goal. The finale makes for a bitter irony that fits in well as an addition to the Greek mythos and its tragic mode of storytelling.
Graphics and Visuals
The action takes place with a top-down view reminiscent of Diablo. Graphically, the venues vary from gloomy catacombs to lakes of fire and brimstone. One particularly nice attention to detail is some of the rock slabs have bones clenching the side of them like a gnarled hand.
The visuals are explosive, literally in some instances, and make this game a real treat for the eyes.
Hades Gameplay
For Zagreus to succeed, he’s going to need weapons and powerups. Fortunately, he has quite a few varieties that can make for some interesting runs.
These infernal arms are the Stygian Blade, Eternal Spear, Shield of Chaos, Heart-Seeking Bow, Twin Fists of Malphon and the Adamant Rail. Titan blood is used to unlock upgrades to these weapons. Some are melee intensive while others revolve around projectile spam.
Outside of these weapon sets, Zagreus is equipped with a dash. Incorporating dashes into the player strategy is a must to survive in the unforgiving land of the dead.
Alongside these weapons are items, boons from the gods, keys (these unlock weapons and skills)
In the likely event Zagreus gets killed during the game he will respawn in front of his father. Upon his respawn, he will lose all upgrades and boons, meaning death can prove itself to be a severe setback to a run. Proceed with an air of caution.
There are several levels to traverse with bosses escalating in difficulty throughout each one.
Review of Hades on PS5
Delightful visuals, strong music and voice acting, blended with colorful visuals makes this title a must have for PS5 owners. If you’re new to roguelikes this game is not a bad way to cut your teeth in on them.
It’s got the difficulty and an awesome story to boot. With a plethora of builds to choose from, repeated runs do not get old.
All the love and care from developer Supergiant comes together to produce a classic in the making.
