Hades 2 has claimed the top spot on Metacritic as 2025’s highest-rated PC game, edging out heavy hitters like Blue Prince, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Few sequels manage to step out of their predecessor’s shadow, but Hades 2 has done exactly that. Released in September 2025 after a lengthy early access period, Supergiant Games’ newest roguelike quickly climbed the charts and is now officially the highest-rated PC game of the year on Metacritic.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is the sheer quality of competition in 2025. From artistic indies to big-budget blockbusters, this has been one of the strongest years for gaming in recent memory. Yet, Hades 2 has claimed the spotlight, proving that innovation, polish, and heart still resonate more than flashy marketing.
A Myth Reborn
Unlike the original, which followed Zagreus in his desperate escapes from the Underworld, the sequel shifts focus to Melinoë, sister of Zagreus and daughter of Hades. Her mission is bold: to challenge Chronos, the Titan of Time himself. This change brings a fresh perspective to the narrative, while still staying rooted in Greek mythology that fans adore.
Gameplay balances familiarity with reinvention. Supergiant introduced the Magick system, giving players new strategic tools in combat, and expanded the paths you can take—whether battling upward toward Olympus or downward into the depths. Each route feels distinct, adding replay value to a genre already known for it.
Why Critics Fell in Love
So why has Hades 2 soared above its rivals in 2025? Reviewers highlight several strengths:
- Combat that evolves with every run – fast, fluid, and enriched with new magical mechanics.
- Stronger storytelling – weaving personal stakes with mythological drama, making each escape attempt feel meaningful.
- Aesthetic excellence – Supergiant’s trademark hand-drawn art style and Darren Korb’s soundtrack deliver an experience as beautiful as it is intense.
While some noted sharp difficulty spikes or a slower early-game progression curve, the overwhelming consensus is that Hades 2 is both a worthy sequel and an improvement on nearly every front.
Standing Tall Among Giants
2025 has not been short on contenders. Titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Silksong, and Blue Prince have each captured attention in their own right. Yet, Hades 2 stands out by delivering a complete package: tight gameplay, memorable characters, and enough depth to keep players coming back.
It’s no small feat to become the highest-rated PC release of the year, especially when measured against both indie darlings and blockbuster franchises. Supergiant Games, a studio of under 30 people, has outshined developers with hundreds on staff—a testament to vision and craft over scale.
