Hades, the critically acclaimed action roguelike game developed by Supergiant Games, has captivated players worldwide with its immersive gameplay, stunning art style, and rich narrative. At the heart of this epic adventure lies its main character, a protagonist whose journey through the Underworld unfolds with each daring escape attempt. In this blog, we delve into the depths of the Underworld to unravel the mystery surrounding Hades’ main character, exploring their backstory, abilities, and significance to the game’s overarching narrative.
Unveiling the Protagonist
The protagonist of Hades is Zagreus, the son of Hades, the ruler of the Underworld, and Persephone, the goddess of spring. Zagreus is the Prince of the Underworld and the son of the god Hades. He is the protagonist and player character of Hades.
Zagreus has always had a sense that he doesn’t belong in the House of Hades; recently, he has decided, against his father’s will, to escape from the Underworld no matter how many tries it might take him. He’s aided and encouraged in his journey primarily by his caretaker Nyx and his mentor Achilles, with others outside the House of Hades, such as Sisyphus, Charon, and the Olympian Gods, sometimes offering their aid as well.
Zagreus is met with numerous obstacles throughout the realms of Tartarus and Asphodel. He is mostly faced with various aggressive shades working for his father, but he also has run-ins with the Fury Megaera, and with the skeletal remains of the Lernean Hydra. These battles, combined with the dangerous landscape of the Underworld, always serve to bring a painful end to Zagreus’ escape attempts sooner or later.
Exploring Zagreus’ Backstory
Zagreus’ backstory is intricately woven into the fabric of Greek mythology, drawing upon ancient tales of gods and heroes. According to myth, Zagreus is depicted as a god of hunting and rebirth, often associated with the mysteries of life and death. His parentage, as the son of Hades and Persephone, further solidifies his status as a divine figure with connections to the Underworld. However, Zagreus’ true identity and lineage are shrouded in secrecy, with much of his past obscured by the enigmatic nature of his parents and the realm in which he resides.
The Journey of Self-Discovery
As players guide Zagreus through the ever-shifting chambers of the Underworld, they are presented with glimpses of his inner turmoil and conflicting emotions. Despite his privileged position as the son of a god, Zagreus feels trapped and suffocated by the oppressive atmosphere of the Underworld, yearning for a sense of purpose and belonging beyond its gloomy confines. His journey becomes a quest for self-discovery, as he grapples with questions of identity, destiny, and the true nature of his existence.
Unraveling the Mysteries of the Underworld
Throughout his odyssey, Zagreus encounters a diverse cast of characters, both friend and foe, each with their own motivations and agendas. From the wise mentorship of Achilles to the enigmatic guidance of the mysterious Nyx, Zagreus forms meaningful relationships that shape his understanding of the world around him. As he delves deeper into the secrets of the Underworld, Zagreus uncovers shocking revelations about his past and the true extent of his powers, leading to a climactic showdown with his formidable father, Hades, in a battle for freedom and redemption.
The Significance of Zagreus
In Hades, Zagreus serves as more than just a playable character; he is the driving force behind the game’s narrative and gameplay mechanics. His relentless determination and unwavering spirit mirror the player’s own resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring them to persevere through each challenging escape attempt. Additionally, Zagreus’ journey of self-discovery resonates with players on a personal level, encouraging them to reflect on their own struggles and triumphs as they navigate the complexities of life and death in the Underworld.
Zagreus is a person who is calm and has a dry sense of humour. Which can be seen when he make quips and one-liners toward the many wretches of the Underworld who stood in his way. He is also very forgiving as he accepted the apology from Nyx(whom had lied to him about being his mother). He also (possiblly) doesn’t hold grudges to Megaera for killing him countless times simple because he knew she was simply doing her job. He holds his mentor,Achilles in high esteeem as he was the person who taught him how to fight using different weapons. He loves and cared for Cerberus greatly.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Zagreus stands as a compelling and multifaceted protagonist in the world of Hades, embodying themes of rebellion, resilience, and self-discovery. His journey through the Underworld serves as the focal point of the game’s narrative, guiding players on an epic adventure filled with danger, intrigue, and emotional depth. As players continue to unravel the mysteries of the Underworld alongside Zagreus, they discover the true essence of what it means to defy fate and forge their own destiny.
