In Hades, players have the ability to complete a speedrun escape from the Underworld within 20 minutes, making it a true roguelike dungeon-crawler experience. However, it's important to note that there is also an extensive amount of story and character content that players can engage with, particularly after the credits have rolled. Hades 2 can draw valuable lessons from this aspect of the game.
Playing Hades reveals to players that escaping the Underworld is only a fraction of the overall narrative. The plot deepens as Zagreus discovers the tragic reality that he cannot survive for long on the surface of the Earth. This realization prompts him to persuade Persephone to accompany him back to the House of Hades. After multiple attempts, Persephone finally agrees, and they make their way back to the Underworld on Charon's boat as the credits roll. However, players soon discover that this is far from the end of the game, as there is still a significant portion of the main story that awaits their completion.
The Hades Ending That Players Didn't Expect
Players familiar with RPGs and games that prioritize storytelling may have already significantly improved their relationships with the Olympians, as well as completed additional content such as reuniting Achilles and Patroclus and resolving the issues between Chaos and Nyx. Throughout the game, Hades encourages players to strengthen their bonds with the Olympians by providing nectar and ambrosia in preparation for the post-game challenge of inviting them to the House of Hades. However, players who have solely focused on escaping and neglected their in-game relationships will find that the game's storyline suddenly slows down without warning.
The conclusion of the game also arrives abruptly, as Hades gives up on fighting Zagreus and Persephone agrees to return to the Underworld all within the same playthrough. Subsequently, the post-game content revolves around developing relationships with Persephone, Hades, Demeter, and the other Olympians. The pacing of the epilogue is smooth for players who have consistently pursued side quests and cultivated relationships throughout the game. However, for those who have not, completing the epilogue may take longer than finishing the main game.
Why Hades' Epilogue Slows to a Crawl
For optimal gameplay experience, it is crucial for players to effectively manage the abundance of content available after completing the game. This holds particularly true for newcomers and those unfamiliar with the genre's conventions. They should be informed about the significance of cultivating relationships and progressing steadily throughout the game, rather than rushing through the main plot and leaving side content for later.
To achieve this, the developer should implement game design elements that clearly communicate the game's intentions. Signaling the approaching conclusion of the main story, its implications, and the necessary tasks to be completed beforehand would greatly assist players. Taking Hades 2 as an example, players can expect an extended epilogue, numerous captivating side quests, and a vast array of charming characters to explore and connect with.
Hades 2, currently in development, has the potential to become even more spectacular by building upon the success of its predecessor. Supergiant Games aims to enhance the gameplay experience, particularly in terms of post-game content, providing both seasoned players and newcomers with a more fulfilling and well-paced journey.
