Hades 2's "Olympic Update," the first major content drop, introduces significant enhancements, including a new region, characters, weapons, and more, boosting both Melinoe's capabilities and the challenge presented by enemies.
Hades 2's Olympic Update: A Mountain of New Content
Enhanced Melinoe and More Formidable Foes
Supergiant Games has unveiled the Olympic Update, its first major update for Hades 2. The developers plan to closely monitor player feedback to refine the changes. This substantial update introduces a new region, weapon, characters, animal familiars, and more, significantly expanding the game's content.
Key features of the "practically mountain-sized" Olympic Update include:
- New Region: Mount Olympus: Explore the mythical home of the gods and face the challenge of its salvation.
- New Weapon: Xinth, the Black Coat: Master the power of this otherworldly Nocturnal Arm.
- New Characters: Forge alliances with two new allies in their native region.
- New Familiars: Discover and bond with two additional animal companions.
- Crossroads Renewal: Customize the Crossroads with dozens of new cosmetic items.
- Expanded Story: Uncover hours of new dialogue as the narrative unfolds in the new region.
- World Map: Navigate the game world with a new, improved map presentation.
- Mac Support: Native support for Macs with Apple M1 chips or later.
Currently in early access, Hades 2, the sequel to Supergiant Games' acclaimed 2020 title, is anticipated to receive a full release and console launch next year. The early access version has already garnered praise for its replayability and substantial content. This update further expands the gameplay experience with additional dialogue and voice lines, intensifying the narrative as players confront the challenges of Olympus, the throne of Zeus.
The update also refines existing mechanics. Several Nocturnal Arms and Abilities have been reworked, including Witch's Staff, Sister Blades, Umbral Flames, and Moonstone Axe Specials, enhancing Melinoe's adaptability. Her Dash has been improved for speed and responsiveness. However, these enhancements are balanced by increased enemy difficulty.
The new Mount Olympus region introduces new Wardens and a Guardian. Existing Surface enemies have also received adjustments:
- Chronos: Reduced downtime between phases; minor adjustments.
- Eris: Various adjustments; no longer prone to standing in flames.
- Infernal Beast: Resurfaces sooner after the first phase; minor adjustments.
- Polyphemus: No longer summons Elite foes; minor adjustments.
- Charybdis: Reduced number of phases; more intense flailing with reduced downtime.
- Headmistress Hecate: Loses invulnerability sooner after her Sisters of the Dead are defeated.
- Ranged Enemies: Fewer simultaneous attacks.
- Various other minor enemy and combat adjustments.
