How Many Times Should I Finish Hades?
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So, you’ve just entered the House of Hades and are ready to delve into the Underworld. You are probably asking yourself, “How many times am I expected to complete escape attempts in Hades?” Well, the short answer is, you should aim to finish Hades at least 10 times. Doing so unlocks the initial true ending by exhausting Persephone’s dialogue and accessing the game’s initial narrative resolution. However, if you truly want to experience all the game has to offer, including its epilogue and deepen relationships with the Olympian Gods, you are looking at potentially dozens of runs. Each escape attempt and eventual victory builds towards unraveling the intricate story, upgrading Zagreus, and unlocking the full potential of Supergiant Games’ masterpiece.
The First Ten Runs: Unveiling the True Ending
The first ten escapes are crucial. Each successful run after your initial victory allows you to speak with Persephone in Greece. Engaging in dialogue with her ten times is a mandatory component to witness the “true ending”. The narrative unfolds gradually with each encounter, revealing more about Zagreus’ past, his relationship with his parents, and the reasons for his incessant desire to reach the surface. Don’t worry, you do not need to win all these runs consecutively. Persistence is key.
Beyond the True Ending: The Epilogue and Relationship Building
Once you’ve achieved the true ending, the game doesn’t simply conclude. It opens up a wealth of new opportunities. One of the most significant is unlocking the epilogue. To access the epilogue, you’ll need to max out relationships with at least six Olympic gods. This involves gifting them nectar and ambrosia, completing their character arcs, and fulfilling certain in-game conditions. Each god has its own specific set of requirements, and it can take significant time and dedication to achieve this.
The Pact of Punishment: Increasing the Heat
After your first successful escape, you unlock the Pact of Punishment. This allows you to increase the difficulty of subsequent runs by adding various challenges. Completing runs at higher “heat” levels is not directly tied to unlocking the game’s story, but it is required for other rewards and for completely upgrading certain aspects of your weapons. The maximum heat level is 64.
The Allure of Infinite Replayability
Hades boasts immense replayability. Each run offers a unique combination of boons, weapon aspects, and enemy encounters. The procedural generation of the Underworld ensures that no two runs are ever exactly the same, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. It also enables the game to boast of being infinitely replayable. Like other roguelike games, it has elements that make it very enticing to keep coming back.
100% Completion: A Long and Rewarding Journey
If you’re aiming for 100% completion, be prepared to invest a significant amount of time. You’ll need to fully upgrade all weapon aspects, unlock all codex entries, reach high heat levels, complete all prophecies from the Fated List, and max out relationships with virtually all characters. Estimates suggest that achieving 100% completion can take upwards of 95 hours. For more information on the intersection of games and learning, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to beat Hades twice in a single run?
Yes, during the final boss fight, Hades’ health regenerates after being eliminated the first time. You need to defeat him twice in a single encounter to complete a run.
2. What happens when I beat Hades for the first time?
The next time you try to escape, the Pact of Punishment becomes available, allowing you to increase the difficulty.
3. Do I have to beat Hades 10 times consecutively?
No, you do not need to win the ten runs to achieve the true ending consecutively. The game tracks your overall number of successful escapes.
4. How long does it take to beat Hades?
A standard playthrough to complete the main objectives can take around 22 hours. Aiming for 100% completion can extend that time to 95 hours.
5. What is the true ending of Hades?
The true ending involves escaping 10 times and exhausting all of Persephone’s dialogue.
6. What happens after the true ending?
After achieving the true ending, you can pursue the epilogue, unlock new weapon upgrades, and continue to explore the game’s post-content.
7. Can I romance anyone in Hades?
Yes, you can romance three characters: Dusa, Megaera, and Thanatos.
8. What is the best weapon in Hades?
The Twin Fists of Malphon are a popular choice, particularly the Aspect of Demeter for aggressive players. However, the “best” weapon depends on your playstyle.
9. What is the hardest run in Hades?
The most difficult run is at Heat level 64, which adds significant challenges and nerfs to Zagreus.
10. Can you complete Hades without dying?
While it’s theoretically possible, Hades is designed with death as a core mechanic. You’re expected to die multiple times.
11. What happens if I quit mid-run?
You’ll return to the last save point in the Courtyard, as if you hadn’t started the run.
12. Does God Mode ruin Hades?
God Mode makes the game easier by increasing your damage resistance. It doesn’t ruin the game, but it does change the experience.
13. Does Hades get easier each run?
Yes, the progression elements and your increasing knowledge of the game will make subsequent runs easier.
14. What is the maximum level for a weapon?
Each weapon aspect can be leveled up to a maximum of Level 5.
15. How many weapons are there in Hades?
There are six weapons in Hades, each with four aspects. Each weapon has its own unique abilities.
In conclusion, the number of times you should “finish” Hades depends on your goals. For the core story, ten successful escapes are essential. However, for a complete experience and all the game has to offer, plan on dozens of runs. Hades is a game that rewards persistence, experimentation, and a willingness to embrace the cycle of death and rebirth.