The future of the Hades series after its anticipated sequel exits early access remains uncertain. With the initial game establishing itself as a blockbuster for Supergiant, Hades is poised to grow into a significant franchise, potentially paving the way for further expansion. The game’s unique blend of Greek mythology within a roguelike framework allows for a fresh portrayal of these ancient tales and deities.
However, should the franchise extend beyond Hades 2, there’s a looming risk it might stray too far from its foundational concept. If Supergiant were to pursue additional entries, the temptation could arise to delve into diverse mythologies and folklore. While this could undoubtedly inject the series with new ideas, maintaining its anchor in a fantasy-rich Ancient Greek setting might be crucial for sustaining its appeal over time.
Taking cues from other franchises that have successfully branched out, like God of War, which shifted from Greek to Norse mythology, Hades risks diluting its distinctive charm with a similar move. Although God of War’s transition introduced one of its most acclaimed arcs, replicating this strategy might not serve Hades well, given its unique positioning.
Back in 2020, the original Hades garnered the Best Indie award at The Game Awards and earned a nomination for Game of the Year, underscoring its critical acclaim and popularity.
Focusing on Ancient Greek mythology is not just a stylistic choice but a core strength of the series. While it’s tempting to envision Hades tackling other pantheons, the Greek gods have become intrinsic to its identity. While other games have explored similar themes, such as God of War and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, Hades now stands as a leading force in this narrative space.
The series should capitalize on its thorough exploration of Greek mythology. Shifting away could potentially erode what makes Hades so compelling, as its connection to these myths is central to its allure. In the event of branching into new mythologies, Supergiant would need to accompany such expansions with a fitting title, rather than directly tying them to the established Hades brand.
As players eagerly await the full release of Hades 2, much excitement surrounds how the story of Melinoe will continue. While the exact timeline remains a mystery, the early glimpses have shown promise. Fans are hopeful for a 2025 release, keeping their fingers crossed for a continuation that stays true to its mythological roots.
Hades 2 launched in early access for PC in May 2024, with plans to widen availability to consoles after early access concludes. Meanwhile, Supergiant has showcased its flair for creating captivating mythological adaptations, and there remains potential for the developer to explore new cultural narratives in standalone projects. For the Hades series, however, its beating heart will always reside within the stories of Greek antiquity.
