Hades is a game that quickly grew a dedicated fan base, and while the gameplay was a big part of this, the narrative and characters were just as important. This retelling of the myth of the Underworld and Greek mythological figures includes a wide range of gods and goddesses in the Pantheon, but some of them were better designed than others.
There are many elements to consider when ranking them all, including the power of the books they grant to Zagreus as well as how exciting their visual design and characterization were in the game. There are plenty of other stories and myths a Hades sequel could tell, but do the present characters have potential?
Hades
Hades might play one of the bigger roles in the story as Zagreus’ distant and often cruel father, but he’s the least interesting overall. Firstly, he doesn’t provide any boons and is more of a villain in the game.
Secondly, he doesn’t feel re-invented in an interesting way. He’s a disapproving and critical father, and while the family relationships are mended in the in, it’s hard to really root for him or to like him at all. Plus, many people would prefer him to have a less boring personality.
Zeus
The god Zeus was never going to be left out of Hades, but he still felt a little dry in comparison to some of the others. While characters like Eurydice and Achilles were given depth and a revamp, Zeus feels exactly like what most people in the modern-day imagine him to be.
He’s strong and one-note, and he looks like a stereotypical Zeus fIgure. The best thing about him, however, is that many of his boons are useful, so these do give him a slight leg up.
Demeter
Demeter definitely doesn’t have a very exciting design compared to some of the other gods and goddesses. She’s older and more reserved, and she comes off as a bit cold and distant.
However, this does make some sense given her ability to control the weather. However, while her dialogue choices are a bit bland, her boons are rather exciting and powerful. While not introduced until a little later in the game, they do give Zagreus a lot of help.
Persephone
Persephone is much more likable than her husband, but she also doesn’t feel like she’s given a fresh design. There have been so many retellings over the years of the Hades and Persephone story that it’s difficult to find one that feels exciting and not tired in some way. However, her relationship with her son, Zagreus, is more compelling.
Persephone is another character who only exists to provide an interesting backstory and plot as she doesn't offer boons to Zagreus. However, everything in the story does revolve around her in a way.
Poseidon
Poseidon and Zeus have some similarities in their overall vibe, but Poseidon does have a bit more charisma and likability. While his interactions with Zagreus might not be the most interesting compared to others on the list, he's not exactly boring.
Some of his boons are really useful, but others that provide knock-away effects can actually be a detriment in some situations, so he comes out in the middle of the pack.
Aphrodite
Aphrodite is a goddess who is often maligned, even by fans of Hades, and it’s true that her design in the game isn’t exactly a big change or update.
However, while she might feel a bit too stereotypical, she is fun to interact with because she’s willing to flirt with Zagreus. And, while her weak effects are a bit weak themselves, her call ability is actually super helpful in defeating bosses, especially if someone's new to the game.
Ares
Compared to Zeus and Poseidon, Ares has a bit more of a unique and sleek design. Instead of being portrayed as chaotic and bloodthirsty, he’s rather calm and collected.
This makes his ion for war rather entertaining to hear about, and it’s hard not to be compelled by the character design including his shiny armor. Also, some of his boons, such as Blade Rift, are just as fierce as the character.
Artemis
Artemis is a goddess that many people love outside of the game, and many fans of the game love her design in this iteration, too. As the huntress, she has a wild and free element, combined with discipline, and she has some of the most relatable dialogue.
While her overall design is easy to recognize and fight for the character, many of her boons are unpredictable as they are all about critical chance. However, her cast ability can be a real aid.
Hermes
Hermes is a god whose boons will at first seem like they aren’t very useful. However, speed can be an extremely valuable resource in the game. His boons are also easy to make work regardless of which weapon Zagreus is using.
And, as far as character design, Hermes has become a fan favorite. He is dynamic and provides more creative dialogue than many of the other gods and goddesses. It's no wonder he's become popular in fan art and fan fiction.
Dionysus
Dionysus has some of the least useful boons in the game, so it might be surprising that he’s so high on the list. However, he’s just one of the most charismatic and exciting gods to interact with which earns him a higher spot.
While he might fit the stereotype of the god of wine, he’s got style and flash. And, while his boons might be less useful than some of the power players, “ vintage” is useful if players are trying to collect nectar and establish strong relationships within Hades.
