When it comes to the story of Hades 2, many are left divided. On the one hand, some fans think it's amazing. On the other hand, some believe that it could have been so much more. I'm with those who are on the side of the latter, and it's mostly because of how the game handles it by the end.
While it does provide many resolutions, from the God of the Underworld's fate to that of Chronos, they were severely underwhelming. But the real nail in the coffin for my disappointment with Hades 2's overall story was how it handled the reveal of the mystery behind Hecate.
Ever since its early access, fans have wondered who the witch is, given the significance of her role as the guardian and trainer of Melinoe. Many have conjured up theories, and among all of them, one proved to be right. However, I found that the game did not do a good job of confirming it.
For those who don't mind spoilers, the big reveal is that Hecate is essentially a Melinoe from an alternate timeline, one that failed in stopping Chronos, and who's set to right that wrong by pulling the strings of fate to train the Melinoe we play as. When I found out about this, I knew it was huge information, but the way the game shared it made it feel as if it wasn't a matter of great importance.
A big reason why it felt that way is that I didn't learn about it after a huge battle or during a major plot point, but when I decided to maximize Hecate's affection by giving her Bath Salts and inviting her to the Crossroads Hot Springs. Basically, the background of such an important character, one that could have had a huge impact on the overall plot if it were integrated into it, is locked away as end-game optional content.
It's where I found Supergiant Games had heavily dropped the ball, as not only does it mean you have to raise Hecate's affection, but you also have to reach Hades 2's epilogue. Essentially, that means players could potentially miss out on such important information, which further frustrated me with how the reveal was handled.
Also, learning about her identity was undoubtedly meant to be an emotional moment, one that allows you to connect with her and Melinoe's pain, struggles, and their bond. However, it rang hollow and empty, considering that I, and likely many others, did so much, only for it to be relegated to a short scene in the game's hot springs.
Hades 2 may have done many things right, but the reveal of Hecate's real identity is certainly not one of them. It had the potential to be so much more than what it is, perhaps even becoming the best part of the already-disappointing plot and saving it. Instead, it only added to the mediocrity of the story's ending, which is unfortunate, given the amazing opportunities Supergiant Games could have explored.
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