Summary
Retellings of Ancient Greek stories are vital in keeping them alive, and one of the ways to do that is through video games such asHades. ThoughHadesisn’t a retelling of a traditional Greek myth, it does borrow characters and plot points from various Greek myths, all told with a light and humorous tone. It’s this tone that keeps the often depressing stories of the characters from becoming grim and tragic, and instead becomes a story of hope and family.Hades 2will presumably have a similar design: an original story, but with characters and plot points derived from ancient Greek mythology.
As the sequel toHades, it’s expected that it’ll have a similar tone to its predecessor, but Supergiant Games might decide to go in a different direction with the tone and atmosphere, ditchingHades' humor for a more subdued atmosphere. This wouldn’t be unprecedented, as sequels often have different tones to stand alone from their predecessors, but it could also be detrimental toHades 2in particular because of the subject matter that will likely be handled.
A Change of Story in Hades 2
Hades 2follows Melinoe, sister of Zagreus. In Greek mythology, Melinoe is described as a goddess who brings madness and nightmares. The trailer forHades 2shows Melinoe as a pupil of Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft, which is consistent with Melinoe’s own association with witchcraft in Greek mythology. The tone of the trailer matches the content and, while it isn’t outright dark or suited to the horror genre, it doesn’t carry the same humorous tone asHades' first trailer, with a couple of quips to lighten a more serious story and protagonist.
Zagreus as a Protagonist
Despite being siblings, Zagreus was laid-back and sardonic, rather than despairing over his situation. From her depiction in the trailer,Melinoe appears to be a more serious protagonist than Zagreus. This doesn’t mean thatHades 2is guaranteed to be a game without humor, as serious characters are often placed among eccentric casts to provide an interesting contrast, and create a humorous tone.
The Value of Humor in Hades
Humor and Accessibility
But, further than keeping consistency, humor breaks barriers and makesHadesmore accessible and approachable than it would be without it. Because Greek mythology is so ancient and removed from its original context, it’s important to make the texts relatable. Humor is a great way to do this, and it was atool used inHadesto tell stories and myths. These were picked up by players familiar with the myths and characters, but were still entertaining for players unfamiliar with the original texts.
Zagreus and Dionysus' Prank on Orpheus
A great example of this is the prankZagreus and Dionysus play on Orpheus, where they tell Orpheus that the two are the same god. This references the origins of Dionysus who, in Orphism, was also known as Zagreus. Orphism was a cult in Ancient Greece which was named after Orpheus. InHades, Hades mocks Zagreus for telling Orpheus lies and that he’ll spread the ridiculous story to the mortals, presumably a reference to the real-world source of the myth.
Humor in Storytelling
This incident inHadesis already funny without understanding any of the references or the historical framing. Humor is a wonderful tool for storytelling, andHades 2will benefit from it just as much asHades, especially if it’s cleverly applied to match a more serious story.
Hades 2
WHERE TO PLAY
The first-ever sequel from Supergiant Games builds on the best aspects of the original god-like rogue-like dungeon crawler in an all-new, action-packed, endlessly replayable experience rooted in the Underworld of Greek myth and its deep connections to the dawn of witchcraft. BATTLE BEYOND THE UNDERWORLDAs the immortal Princess of the Underworld, you’ll explore a bigger, deeper mythic world, vanquishing the forces of the Titan of Time with the full might of Olympus behind you, in a sweeping story that continually unfolds through your every setback and accomplishment.MASTER WITCHCRAFT AND DARK SORCERYInfuse your legendary weapons of Night with ancient magick, so that none may stand in your way. Become stronger still with powerful Boons from more than a dozen Olympian gods, from Apollo to Zeus. There are nearly limitless ways to build your abilities.MINGLE WITH (MORE) GODS, GHOSTS, AND MONSTERSMeet a cast of dozens of fully-voiced, larger-than-life characters, including plenty of new faces and some old friends. Grow closer to them through a variety of new interactions, and experience countless unique story events based on how your journey unfolds.EVERY RUN IS ITS OWN ADVENTURENew locations, challenges, upgrade systems, and surprises await as you delve into the ever-shifting Underworld again and again. Reveal the mysteries of the Arcana Altar, tame witchy familiars, and gather reagents using Tools of the Unseen to get closer to your goal.THE PERKS OF IMMORTALITYThanks to a variety of permanent upgrades and the return of God Mode, you don’t have to be a god yourself to experience whatHades IIhas to offer. But if you happen to be one, you can brave escalating challenges for greater rewards, and prove just how divine you really are.
