September 28, 2025

Hades II First Impressions – Does It Live Up to the Original?

1 hour 19 minutes

We've all been playing Hades II and discussing our early thoughts on the game, a sequel to one of our collective favourites.

Show Dot Points

Hades 2 introduces new gameplay mechanics that enhance strategy.

The art style and music continue to impress players.

Progression feels rewarding, regardless of the success of the run.

The game features a complex system of collectibles and upgrades.

Character relationships are more intricate in Hades 2.

The stakes in the story are higher compared to the first game.

Players appreciate the depth of Greek mythology in the narrative.

The game maintains a balance between challenge and accessibility.

Feedback on the game's systems varies among players.

The community is excited for future updates and expansions. The hex system in Hades adds a unique layer to gameplay.

State of Play revealed exciting new titles and updates.

Zero Parades is anticipated to capture the essence of Disco Elysium.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is coming to PlayStation, a surprise to many.

Battlefield 6's cinematic trailer draws comparisons to Call of Duty.

The gaming community is eager for more depth in Wolverine's gameplay.

PlayStation Plus is offering a strong lineup for October.

Gran Turismo continues to thrive with its loyal fanbase.

The evolution of game mechanics is crucial for player engagement.

The hosts express mixed feelings about new hardware announcements. The game design of upcoming titles may lean towards linear storytelling rather than open-world exploration.

Character relationships in the X-Men universe hold significant potential for deeper storytelling.

Sony's new reward system for PlayStation has received mixed reactions from the gaming community.

Forza Horizon 6 promises to bring a fresh setting and exciting gameplay mechanics.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 will not only remake the original but also expand on its story with new content.

Nintendo's leadership change marks a significant moment in the company's history, especially with the appointment of a female president.

The new RPG Anata showcases a blend of popular gaming mechanics from various franchises.

The gaming community is eager for more X-Men characters in upcoming titles.

The reaction to PlayStation's merchandise gatekeeping reflects broader trends in gaming culture.

The anticipation for Forza Horizon 6 highlights the franchise's evolution and commitment to diverse settings.

Hosts:

Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil

Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley

Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

Resources

State of Play September 2025: Wolverine, Saros, and Every Trailer Revealed - Explosion Network

Earn Trophies, Get Gear: PlayStation’s New Rewards Program Starts With Ghost of Tsushima - Explosion Network

Forza Horizon 6: Answering the Big Questions About That Japan Setting - Xbox Wire

Yakuza Kiwami 3 Announced for February 2026 With New Spin-Off Dark Ties - Explosion Network

Bowser retires from Nintendo, succeeded by first female president | Eurogamer.net

Arcade Couch Credits:

Music by: Dylan Blight

Art by: Cherie Henriques

Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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