Hades: 10 Essential Tips to Conquer the Underworld with All Weapons

Introduction

Hades is a roguelike that rewards persistence and strategy. Whether you're new or looking to clear higher heat levels, these 10 tips will help you dominate with every weapon and aspect.

1. Prioritize Daedalus Hammers

Daedalus Hammers offer weapon-specific upgrades that drastically change your playstyle. Always take a Hammer early if offered, as most of these upgrades are game-changers. For example, the Explosive Shot on the Rail turns it into a devastating AoE weapon.

2. Understand Boon Synergies

Don't just pick random boons. Aim for synergy: For instance, Ares' Doom pairs well with Artemis' Hunter Dash or Dionysus' Hangover for stacking damage. Zeus + Poseidon creates powerful duo boons like Sea Storm.

3. Use Your Dash Wisely

Your dash is your main survival tool. Use it to avoid damage, not just to move. The Divine Dash (Athena) is universally strong as it deflects projectiles.

4. Don't Ignore Your Cast

The cast can be a secondary weapon. Pick a cast boon that suits your build: Poseidon's Flood for crowd control, Ares' Slicing Shot for damage over time. Some aspects (like Hera Bow) turn your cast into a primary damage source.

5. Collect Centaur Hearts Early

Health is crucial. Centaur Hearts give you +25 max HP. Focus on them in Tartarus to build a health cushion for later biomes. Also, keep an eye out for Touch of Styx darkness rooms to increase max HP via Mirror upgrades.

6. Balance Your Mirror Upgrades

Spend darkness on key upgrades first: Death Defiance (extra lives), Thick Skin (+max HP), Greater Reflex (extra dash), and Boiling Blood (damage vs cast-affected enemies). Then branch out.

7. Learn Room Rewards Priority

Not all rooms are equal. In order of priority: Daedalus Hammer, Boon (especially Olympian with duo potential), Pom (to upgrade boons), Heart, Gold. Skip useless boons for your build.

8. Master Weapons and Aspects

Each weapon has a unique feel. Try all aspects to find what suits you. For beginners, the Shield of Chaos (especially Aspect of Zeus) is forgiving due to block. For speed, the Adamant Rail (Aspect of Eris) deals high damage.

9. Manage Your Resources

Keys unlock weapons and Mirror upgrades, Gems buy contractor items, Nectar gives keepsakes. Give Nectar early to Cerberus or Skelly for useful keepsakes like the Old Spiked Collar (+HP) or Lucky Tooth (revive).

10. Practice and Learn Patterns

Every enemy has unique attack patterns. Take time to learn them, especially bosses like Theseus and the Minotaur. Use the Fated List of Minor Prophecies to track goals and earn Titan Blood for weapon upgrades.

Conclusion

With these tips, you'll be escaping the Underworld in no time. Keep trying, upgrade your Mirror, and experiment with builds. Good luck, Zagreus!