Hades 2: Who is Our New Protagonist, Melinoe?

Hades 2, a direct sequel to the smash-hit Hades, is set to launch with an entirely new character as our protagonist. Melinoe, sister to Zagreus, has a mysterious mythology unto herself that feels certain to play into the storyline of Hades 2. This article covers all we know so far about Melinoe in Hades 2, her real-world mythology, and whether or not we have truly seen the last of Zagreus.

Melinoe in Greek Mythology

Like Zagreus, Melinoe commands a place in Greek legends. Melinoe is the goddess of ghosts, nightmares, and madness. This may already be our first clue as to what kind of story arc she may follow in Hades 2. Themes of darker magics also carry through into Melinoe's cast ability, which locks enemies in place in a shadowy binding circle (pictured below).

Hades 2 Melinoe's Cast Ability — Supergiant Games

Melinoe's lineage is something of a mystery. While her mother is almost certainly the same as that of Zagreus, that being Persephone, her father's identity is less straightforward.

While some trust that Melinoe's father is simply Hades, Greek myths suggest that her father was in fact Zeus who, having disguised himself as Hades, laid with Persephone. Extremely awkward moral questions aside, this myth throws the issue of Melinoe's true father into doubt. Whether or not this will develop into a story thread on its own in Hades 2, we'll just have to wait and see.

Melinoe's Appearance in Greek Mythology

Melinoe is often pictured as half black and half white, an artistic depiction perhaps meant to represent her heritage. That of Melinoe which is dark may represent Hades (or Zeus whilst he took on Hades' form) while her light side is said to represent Persephone who, in spite of being wed to Hades, was said to have despised Hades and the Underworld i the old mythology.

Melinoe, Goddess of Ghost and Nightmares by Artsy-Johanna

Melinoe in Hades 2

In Hades 2, Melinoe does not appear with flesh or garb split between black and white, however there are suggestions in her appearance that nod towards her mixed heritage. One eye is gold/green while the other is red. One of her arms appears mortal, while the other is a ghostly green.

Being the Goddess of ghosts and nightmares, her moon-like crescent headdress also feels very in line with her mythos.

Hades 2 Melinoe Appearance — Supergiant Games

Melinoe's story begins in Hades 2 with the task of doling out vengeance for her family, including her brother Zagreus, even if it means taking on the Titans of old. Players will notice right away that Melinoe's playstyle differs significantly from that of her brother. Melinoe is a witch, meaning her ability to cast potent spells and obliterate enemies from a distance is amplified.

So, are you all set for another round of Hades? To whet your appetite, below are a few further articles we've blasted on the topic of Hades 2. See you in the Underworld!