Hades for Windows

Quick summary: what this game offers

Hades is a story-rich action roguelike that casts you as the immortal prince of the Underworld, fighting your way up through perilous, ever-changing levels. It blends fast-paced combat, mythic weapons and powers, and a character-driven plot centered on a strained family dynasty.

Your role and objective

As the prince of the Underworld, your goal is to defy the realm's ruler and claw your way back to the living world. Every run is an opportunity to grow—both in power and in the storyline—as you face monstrous foes and unravel the fraught relationships that tie you to the gods above.

Combat, progression, and customization

• Experiment with a variety of legendary weapons and synergies to change how each run feels.
• Use the Mirror of Night and other permanent upgrades to make later attempts more powerful.
• Collect Boons from Olympian deities to reshape your build mid-run and unlock new combinations.
• Face guardians and bosses that track past confrontations, so encounters evolve over time.
• Try different weapon types, Boon arrangements, and difficulty modifiers to keep gameplay fresh.

Characters and narrative depth

The cast is fully voiced and filled with memorable personalities—gods, ghosts, and monsters—with recurring events that reveal the messy dynamics of the ruling family. Building rapport with these figures not only deepens the plot but also grants gameplay benefits that influence future escapes.

Replayability and long-term support

Because level layouts, Boon options, and unlockable content vary between runs, Hades offers strong replay value. Although major new content releases have slowed, the game received balance updates and a supportive fan community that extend its lifespan. Permanent upgrades and unlocks give a satisfying sense of long-term progression.

Strengths and caveats

Hades set a high bar for indie roguelikes with its stylish presentation, emotional storytelling, and flexible character builds. That said, the loop can feel repetitive for some players after many runs, which may reduce enjoyment over time.

If you want more

If you’re looking for a fresh take that keeps the same world and characters, consider the sequel for a newer experience that expands on the original’s systems and story.