22. Hades, a critically acclaimed roguelike in which they’ll play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, in his numerous attempts to escape the Underworld and reach Mount Olympus. The story unfolds over the course of multiple runs and you gain new abilities and rewards along the way, keeping the gameplay loop (of repeatedly dying) fresh and engaging.
They’ll also encounter many figures from Greek mythology, like Eurydice, Megaera, Achilles, and Charon, some of whom they’ll have to fight and others who will help them in various ways.
Promising review: “I haven’t really played roguelikes before; it’s not my genre of game. I went into this game having seen some gameplay in trailers and thinking ‘Oh. That looks really cool.’ Then I saw it raking up award after award and I was like ‘Ok, now I really have to give this a try.’ This is hands-down one of the best games I’ve ever played in my life. No contest.
“The artwork is outstanding and enthralling. The voice acting is impeccable with such a small cast. The story is deep and compelling; there’s still new dialogue I’m reading/hearing after 200+ hours and I’ve had my jaw hit the floor from twists or details several times. The music is wonderful and engaging. The action is constant and fast-paced, yet you know exactly what’s going on at all times. The main character is likable! That’s big for me. I actually give a care about him, his goals, his connections and his story. And best of all, the idea that once an encounter is done, you have another room ahead is actually where the game pulls you in. Hades is a masterpiece. If this isn’t a genre you’ve liked or played before, it doesn’t matter. This game should be in your library.” —Ben Sperduti
Shipping info: Arrives before Christmas — check the listing for estimated arrival dates based on your location, and see Amazon’s full shipping information here.
Get it from Amazon for $44.99.
