fA few years back, during a time when we sought refuge from the chaos of the outside world, “Hades” by Supergiant Games provided a welcome distraction. Zagreus, the underworld’s rebellious son, attempted to escape his prison while the rest of us remained confined at home. There was no shame in its alluring charm, and it embraced its sensuality without reservation. The character designs by artist Jen Zi showcased Olympian perfection, and winning the favor of these irresistibly charismatic Greek gods was essential for thriving in this realm. It was a tale filled with apologies.

Alongside this, a series of challenges awaited. In “Hades II,” composer Darren Korb delivers a powerful and dramatic score to underscore the climactic stages of Olympus. This level of operatic grandeur surpasses anything from the original game. Zee’s new character illustration (including one wearing a leopard skin pouch) may even inspire further fan art and fan fiction. The brilliant script by writer Greg Casabin is wittier, smarter, and more layered than ever before.

Revenge is sweet, but this time, you are not playing as Zagreus; instead, you take on the role of his sister, Merinoe, at a crucial juncture. Rather than being trapped in a motel, she calls a haunted forest home, guided by the spectral shade and her mentor Hecate. While it may be dim and dreary, unlike Zagreus, she does not seek escape. Instead, she faces nightly adventures. Supergiant invites us to reclaim our time as we dive into the same struggles we faced five years ago, navigating two frontlines of intense battles—from the depths below to the heights of Mount Olympus.

Preparing to face Hecate in your first attempt may be a challenge—your showdown with the “Head Mistress” is merely the initial test of your combat abilities. However, the allure of run-based games like “Hades II” lies in the opportunity for improvement each night presents. Every failure offers lessons, and with each attempt, you gain some measure of progress. Emphasizing its occult theme, you will gather materials to throw into a cauldron during quests, enhancing your spells and boosting your odds of survival.

The game also draws inspiration from another pandemic hit. Animals that cross your path can sense resources and assist you in battle. The pale raven Raki surprises both rocks and foes, while the faithful hound Hecuba can distract enemies while unearthing recovery items. Personally, I found Wildcat Toula hard to overlook; she charges at nearby opponents with her claws—when she feels like it. Plus, she grants you a single chance to evade death during each run. With nine lives, she can afford to be daring.

To defeat Cronos, we will require the help of these newfound allies along with other forms of essential support. Encounters are as intense as you might expect, and it takes time to get accustomed to Merino’s captivating weapons. Interestingly, even if you wield the witch staff like a spear, combat feels intimately magical. The dark cloak allows you to send enemies into the ether and serves as a magical jetpack. As challenging as “Hades II” may become, you are afforded more avenues than ever before to tip the scales in your favor. Conversely, you can make the slopes of Olympus even steeper: nightmare boss fight variations demand mastery of the game’s delectable yet perilous risk-reward mechanics.

One of the delights of “Hades II” lies in its exploration of an internal conflict within a Dysfunctional Extended Family. But this is merely a setup for the resolved conflict. Not every character seems aware of the stakes: Scylla, the frontwoman of the Pop-Punk Trio of Sirens, cheerfully sings I will captivate you and make you my own deep down in Oceanus. Nonetheless, even amidst chaos, the fickle nemesis of your power suit could sporadically challenge you before blocking potential exits, but you can overcome them with the gifts of Nectar or Ambrosia. The conclusion of the game makes it abundantly clear: the fight against oppression’s power requires every ounce of our collective strength, no matter how insignificant we may feel. Regardless of our stance, true resistance arises from solidarity.