Highlights
Hades 2 should implement character customization to enhance player connection and offer incentives for completing tough challenges.
The addition of customization options for the main character in the sequel would be a perfect fit, addressing the absence of cosmetic collectibles in the first game. Supergiant, the developer of Hades 2, could leverage additional resources to experiment and expand, ultimately enhancing the player experience.
Hades by Supergiant is a game that offers an abundance of content. Its captivating storyline seems endless, the six weapons and their unique aspects allow players to specialize and master combat, and the game has gained recognition for its speedrunners overcoming challenging obstacles. However, the original game notably lacked a common feature, and it would be beneficial for its sequel to incorporate it in some manner.
Hades grants players a remarkable level of freedom. The game's combat is smooth and versatile, easily adaptable to suit individual preferences. Characters offer distinct dialogue options and side quests based on player interaction, while the Halls of Hades can be beautifully adorned with numerous decorative choices. Despite these impressive elements, it is peculiar that Hades lacks a standard feature: character customization. While information about Hades 2 remains scarce, this highly anticipated successor to the acclaimed 2020 roguelike should include at least some options for players to personalize the main character.
Why Adding Cosmetics to Hades 2 Would Make it a Better Game
The attitude towards cosmetics in video games varies among gamers. Some are indifferent, while others see it as a crucial aspect of the games they play. Most gamers fall somewhere in between, appreciating cosmetics but not minding their absence if the game is strong enough. The original Hades game is enjoyable even without character customization, but it would be a perfect fit for Hades 2.
Hades is acclaimed for its extensive postgame content, with some players arguing that the true game begins after the credits. While there is plenty of content to keep players engaged for over a hundred hours, there is a notable lack of cosmetic collectibles and unlockables. While being able to exchange gems and diamonds for cosmetics in the Halls of Hades is appreciated, the lack of customization options for Zagreus himself stands out even more.
Players are likely to develop a strong bond with Zagreus as they play extensively, and introducing customization options would further enhance this connection. The introduction of Hades 2 lead character, Melinoe, provides an opportunity to introduce variable fashion choices in the sequel. This not only strengthens the player's personal connection to the game but also acts as an additional incentive for tackling challenging gameplay. In the original Hades, the endgame featured a reward system called the Pacts of Punishment, which allowed players to modify the difficulty of runs. However, the rewards for completing these modified runs were somewhat lackluster, consisting only of currencies and upgrade materials that players had already obtained. Although valuable, they lacked novelty.
Hades 2 can learn from the first game's endgame and improve upon the Pact of Punishment reward system. In addition to upgrade materials and currencies, players could unlock special outfits or accessories for Melinoe. This would introduce freshness and excitement while motivating players to conquer brutal challenges. While a large number of alternate costumes or cosmetics is not necessary, even a small selection rewarded for completing the game's toughest challenges would greatly enhance the overall experience.
Supergiant, the developer of Hades, has acknowledged the absence of cosmetics in the first installment. They have justified this by stating the challenge of dealing with limited resources in terms of difficulty, cost, and time. However, the release of Hades 2 presents an ideal chance for the team to explore and enhance their offerings. Being the studio's most acclaimed game, Hades provides Supergiant with the potential to allocate additional resources towards various aspects, such as personalization, when the sequel is finally launched. Currently, Hades 2 is under development.