No—Hades is not required before Hades II. Supergiant Games says newcomers can enjoy the sequel without knowing the original or Greek mythology. Play Hades first if you want the family story in release order and more context for connections to its returning cast; treat it as an enrichment, not homework.
Do I need to play Hades before Hades II?
No. Hades II is a direct sequel set after Hades, but Supergiant says prior knowledge is not necessary. Its FAQ puts it plainly: “You don’t need to know anything about the original game or Greek myth to enjoy Hades II.” Supergiant Games’ Hades II FAQ was originally dated December 9, 2022 and was last updated April 14, 2026.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Hades - Nintendo Switch | $59.47 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Hades II - Nintendo Switch™ 2 Edition | $49.94 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Hades Limited Edition (Nintendo Switch) | $62.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Hades II - Nintendo Switch™ 2 Edition (European Version) | $44.49 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Good Smile Company Hades II: Melinoë Nendoroid Action Figure | $53.21 | Buy on Amazon |
The sequel follows Melinoë, Princess of the Underworld, as she opposes Chronos. You can begin with her story without first learning the original game’s characters or events. Playing Hades first can give you more context for the family story and make connections to the original cast easier to recognize, but that is a matter of preference rather than a condition for following Hades II.
Which game should you start with?
| Start with… | Choose it if… | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Hades | You want the family story in release order or would like the original cast’s context first. | A fuller foundation for recognizing connections in the sequel; it is not required to understand Hades II. |
| Hades II | Melinoë’s story interests you most, or you would rather begin with the newer game. | A direct sequel that Supergiant says is enjoyable without prior knowledge of Hades. |
Is Hades II complete, or should you wait?
There is no Early Access wait for the story ending: Hades II v1.0 launched on September 25, 2025, and includes the true ending. Supergiant’s launch announcement also notes added character events, music, prophecies, late-game unlockables, and finishing touches. Read the v1.0 announcement.
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- Battle out of hell in Hades, recipient of more than 50 Game of the Year awards
- Includes a download code for the Hades Original Soundtrack, by composer Darren Korb, best known for his work on developer Supergiant's past titles like Transistor and Bastion.
- Also includes a full-color 32-page character compendium booklet, featuring beautiful artwork of the game's colorful cast of gods, ghosts, and monsters, all by Supergiant's art director Jen Zee.
- Defy the god of the dead as you hack and slash out of the Underworld in this rogue-like dungeon crawler from the creators of Bastion and Transistor.
- As the immortal Prince of the Underworld, you'll wield the powers and mythic weapons of Olympus to break free from the clutches of the god of the dead himself.
According to the FAQ, Hades II v1.0 launched September 25, 2025 on Steam, Epic Games Store, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2. Physical game cards for Switch and Switch 2 followed on November 20, 2025. PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions launched April 14, 2026. These dates and platforms reflect Supergiant’s FAQ as last updated April 14, 2026. Check the official Hades II FAQ for current platform details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Does platform or cross-save change the recommendation?
If transferring a save matters more than story order, check compatibility before choosing where to play. Supergiant lists cross-saves for Steam with Epic Games Store and Nintendo Switch with Nintendo Switch 2; it does not list cross-save support for other version pairings. The FAQ’s cross-save details are platform-specific.
Rank #2
- Battle beyond the Underworld using dark sorcery to take on the Titan of Time in this bewitching sequel to the award-winning rogue-like dungeon crawler.
For physical copies, Supergiant confirms Hades II game cards for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, while the original Hades has physical editions for Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation. Those format details do not confirm current retailer stock or regional availability. Hades II platform and format information; Hades physical-release announcement.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- A Good Smile Company import
- From the popular video game
- Includes two face plates; brooding and smiling expressions
- Includes her signature weapons, the dagger "Lim" and the sickle "Oros"
- Enjoy recreating all kinds of poses
Rank #4
- Battle beyond the Underworld to vanquish the Titan of Time as the Princess of the Dead in this bewitching sequel to the original rogue-like dungeon crawler. Hades II lets players explore a bigger, deeper mythic world with the full might of Olympus at their call in a story that reacts to their every setback and accomplishment.
Rank #3
- As the immortal Prince of the Underworld, you'll wield the powers and mythic weapons of Olympus to break free from the clutches of the god of the dead himself, while growing stronger and unravelling more of the story with each unique escape attempt.
- The Olympians have your back! Meet Zeus, Athena, Poseidon, and many more, and choose from their dozens of powerful Boons that enhance your abilities. There are thousands of viable character builds to discover as you go.
- A fully-voiced cast of colourful, larger-than-life characters is waiting to meet you! Grow your relationships with them, and experience thousands of unique story events as you learn about what's really at stake for this big, dysfunctional family.
- New surprises await each time you delve into the ever-shifting Underworld, whose guardian bosses will remember you. Use the powerful Mirror of Night to grow permanently stronger and give yourself a leg up the next time you run away from home.
- Permanent upgrades mean you don't have to be a god yourself to experience the exciting combat and gripping story. Though, if you happen to be one, crank up the challenge and get ready for some white-knuckle action that will put your well-practiced skills to the test.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
