The emergence of a numbered sequel has ensured thatHadesis here to stay. The 2020 Supergiant game garnered strong critical acclaim with its beautiful art style, incredible combat, and vast array of upgrades to make each run feel fresh. A follow-up shows that the developer is willing to explore new ideas in Greek mythology and broaden the horizons of the series, something thatBastion, Transistor, andPyrenever got the opportunity to do.Hades 2looks to be very similar to its predecessor in its core mechanics and gameplay, which is exciting for fans of the first, but it’s also not taking full advantage ofthe different genres Supergiant could explore.
Hadesis available on most modern consoles, and the sequel probably will be too. As before,Hades 2likely intends to capture as wide an audience as possible, but its popularity could be spread further with the decision to bring the franchise to mobile devices. To do this, it would have to carefully consider which genres work best to bring players back on a regular basis. AsTemple RunandJetpack Joyrideprove, endless runners have a lot to give, andHadesfits it like a glove.
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Hades' Design Lends Itself to Endless Runners Well
With most runs inHadesresulting in crushing defeat at the hands of Theseus, Megaera, the Hydra, or Hades himself, the game often feels like a journey to an obvious conclusion. Reaching the end of the underworld happens so infrequently, and to get the best out of the experience sometimes it’s best to instead prioritize gathering valuable resources and improving on relationships instead of desperately trying tomeet up with Persephone. This makes plotting the plan for each run feel like it warrants a great deal of strategy, further adding to the replay value and prolonged enjoyment ofHades.
Inendless runner mobile games, there is no destination. Instead, it’s entirely about bumping up the high score, going further than ever before en route to the same conclusion. There is no satisfying end toTemple Run, which seems frustrating, but it’s one of the big reasons why people keep coming back. It’s quick, short-form entertainment that doesn’t take much effort or thought to enjoy, and whileHadesis far more skill-based, it has the potential to find a place in an all-new genre, and mobile gaming is one thing the series (and Supergiant itself) is yet to explore.
Mobile is a Huge Market
IfWordleandPokemon GOare any indication, mobile gaming is only growing in interest, and has the ability to capture mainstream audiences far more than any console or PC offering. Even apps likeDuolingoadopt game-like features, and the success of pre-existing gaming franchises likeTomb RaiderwithLara Croft GOandSuper Mario BroswithSuper Mario Runmeans that the medium isn’t out of the question for AAA developers and publishers. Mobile is a viable way of producing quality gaming experiences, and ports ofGenshin Impact, Stardew Valley, andFortnitehave bridged the gap between console players and casual fans.
An endless runner mobile game intheHadesserieswould be capitalizing on an increasing trend of pre-existing franchises making the leap to phones with grace. The fast-paced and pinpoint combat of the first two games might not translate well to touchscreen devices, but an endless runner would fit the mold that other games have proven to work while still adhering to the trial-and-error philosophy that makes Supergiant’s magnum opus so great.
