Hades II will launch on Switch 2 and Switch before PlayStation and Xbox

Engadget - Apr 8th, 2025

Hades II, the anticipated sequel by Supergiant Games, is set to move from Early Access to version 1.0 later this year with an exclusive initial launch on Nintendo's Switch and the new Switch 2 consoles. This decision, confirmed by a 'Creator's Voice' promo video and a statement from the developer, means that PlayStation and Xbox users will need to wait for their chance to play the game. Supergiant Games also assured fans that the game would run smoothly at 60 frames per second on both Nintendo consoles, with the Switch 2 offering a higher-definition display. The game will simultaneously release on PC and Mac platforms, aligning with the strategy used for the original Hades game, which saw a staggered release across different platforms.

The decision to initially release Hades II exclusively on Nintendo's platforms reflects a strategic partnership that mirrors the original Hades launch pattern. By opting for an early rollout on Switch and Switch 2, Supergiant is likely aiming to capitalize on the dedicated user base and robust indie game community that Nintendo fosters. The move underscores the continuing significance of platform-exclusive launches in the gaming industry, which can drive sales and engagement on specific consoles. As the game approaches its full release, the anticipation builds not only for its gameplay enhancements but also for the strategic implications of its platform choices, setting a precedent for how indie developers may approach multi-platform releases in the future.

Switch 2 Video Game Development Nintendo Switch Hades Ii Supergiant Games Game Release Strategy Console Exclusivity Early Access

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a well-researched and accurate account of the upcoming release of *Hades II* on Nintendo platforms. It effectively uses credible sources and maintains clarity through straightforward language and logical structure. The piece is timely, addressing a topic of interest to the gaming community, although its appeal to a broader audience is limited. While the article is balanced and neutral, it could benefit from including additional perspectives and context to deepen its analysis. Overall, it serves as a reliable source of information for readers interested in the game's release strategy and performance on new consoles.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports the launch details of *Hades II* on Nintendo platforms, corroborating with Supergiant Games' announcements. It specifies that the game will initially be available on Switch 2 and the original Switch, with a simultaneous release on PC and Mac. This aligns with the developer's FAQ and their communication with Engadget. The article also correctly details the game's performance expectations on Nintendo consoles, mentioning a target of 60 frames per second and a higher-definition display for Switch 2. However, the claim about the game's release window being in 2025, while generally accurate, lacks a precise date, which is consistent with the developer's information. Overall, the article is well-supported by reliable sources and closely matches the factual content provided by the developer.

Balance

The article presents a balanced perspective focused on the release strategy of *Hades II* across different platforms. It provides insights into the developer's decisions without showing favoritism towards any particular gaming console. However, the story could benefit from including viewpoints from other stakeholders such as players or industry analysts to offer a more comprehensive perspective on the impact of the release strategy. The focus remains primarily on the developer's announcements, which may limit the scope of viewpoints presented.

Clarity

The article is well-structured, with a clear presentation of the key points regarding the release of *Hades II*. It uses straightforward language and maintains a neutral tone, making the information accessible to a general audience. The logical flow from the game's release strategy to its performance on Nintendo platforms aids comprehension. However, the inclusion of more background information on the game's development history could provide additional clarity for readers unfamiliar with the *Hades* series.

Source quality

The article relies on credible sources, including direct statements from Supergiant Games and coverage by reputable outlets like Kotaku and Engadget. These sources are well-regarded in the gaming industry, lending authority to the information presented. The use of a promotional video and FAQs from the developer adds to the reliability of the content. However, the article could enhance its credibility by including additional third-party analysis or commentary from industry experts to provide a broader context.

Transparency

The article is transparent about the sources of its information, referencing Supergiant Games' FAQ and the 'Creator's Voice' video. It clearly attributes the claims regarding the game's release and performance to the developer. However, it could improve by providing more context on how the information was obtained and any potential biases in the sources used. Explaining the significance of the release strategy and its implications for different gaming communities would also enhance transparency.