There is great anticipation for Hades 2, the sequel to the immensely popular game Hades. The upcoming game will revolve around the Princess of the Underworld, Melinoe, as she embarks on a mission to save her father, Hades, from the grasp of Chronos, the Titan of Time. Assisting her in this endeavor will be her mentor, Hecate, as well as the mighty Olympians Zeus and Apollo, along with other yet-to-be-confirmed characters.
In the previous installment, Hades provided players with considerable support through the Boons of the Olympians and the power-ups obtained from Nyx's Mirror of Night. While it has not been officially confirmed, it is highly likely that Boons will make a return in Hades 2 due to the presence of Zeus and Apollo. However, there is currently no indication of a similar feature to the Mirror of Night.
What Could Be Hades 2's Version of the Mirror of Night?
In the first Hades game, the Mirror of Night was given to Zagreus by Nyx to assist him in his escape from the Underworld. This valuable tool offers two types of enhancements that can greatly improve Zagreus' abilities throughout his gameplay. Unlike the temporary Boons, the perks from the Mirror of Night are permanent unless the player chooses to deactivate some of them. This significant feature played a crucial role in the game, making it intriguing to speculate how Hades 2 might incorporate a similar mechanic.
Hecate is currently the leading candidate to assume the Nyx-like role in Hades 2. This choice is not only supported by certain accounts in Greek mythology suggesting Hecate as Nyx's daughter, but also by her mentorship of Melinoe in the game. Hecate is depicted training with the princess and offering her valuable guidance to prepare for her upcoming journey. As the goddess of witchcraft, magic, crossroads, and the protection of homes and travelers, it would be logical for Hecate to provide Melinoe with additional upgrades.
In considering Hecate's potential gift if Nyx were to give Zagreus a mirror, one possibility could be a cauldron that aligns with Hades 2's witchcraft and magic theme, specifically tailored for Melinoe's use. However, for a more faithful representation of the lore, Hecate's wheel or the Stropholos of Hecate could also be utilized. In mythology, Hecate embodies three distinct forms within a single body, representing the stages of womanhood: maiden, mother, and crone. The wheel serves as a symbolic representation of Hecate's life and her ability to bestow blessings and prosperity.
Should Hades 2 incorporate the Stropholos, it could potentially provide upgrades based on Hecate's three forms, granting Melinoe enhanced power and protection in each of her runs. This would surpass the capabilities of Nyx's Mirror of Night, which only offered two versions of each ability for Zagreus to utilize. Given the daunting challenge of facing the formidable Chronos, Melinoe would undoubtedly benefit from any additional buffs she can acquire.
Another potential ally for Melinoe could be her mother, Persephone. Although not featured in the trailer or confirmed to appear yet, the Goddess of Harvest may very well make an appearance to assist in saving her husband from Chronos. In the previous Hades game, Persephone was introduced through the use of pomegranates that increased Zagreus' health. This time, she could have a more significant role, allowing Melinoe to explore her garden, akin to the Mirror of Night. Within the garden, the princess could select specific crops that provide substantial boosts before embarking on her journey.
Many details about Hades 2 remain mysterious. However, based on the available information, it is evident that Supergiant Games intends to weave a more intricate narrative utilizing lesser-known gods from Greek mythology and exploring their interactions with the Olympians and Titans. This approach promises to make both the story and gameplay even more exhilarating, potentially surpassing its predecessor in scale and excitement.
Hades 2 is in development.