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Predator Helios 18 AI (RTX 5090): Acer's Most Powerful Gaming Laptop to Date
Looking for an Acer gaming laptop that can go the distance, and then some? Well the Predator Helios 18 AI is the leader of the Acer gaming computer family, an anticipation of the future of on-the-go gaming. If you want to take your gaming beyond the horizon, Acer Predator Helios 18 AI is a mean machine with an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, mesmerizing 4K Mini LED display, and the cherry on top, an Nvidia GeForce RTX™ 5090 GPU. In case you didn’t know, the 5090 is currently the most powerful consumer GPU in the ether. So, if power and style are high on your list of gaming laptop priorities, read on to get the lowdown on Acer’s most powerful gaming laptop to date.
Forged in power
The Predator Helios 18 AI is a portable gaming fortress for players who are done being passengers in their gaming exploits and are ready to become the ride. If you’ve got the money, then the Predator Helios 18 AI certainly has the honey, but it’ll cost you $6,999.99. Now that we’ve got the price tag out of the way, let’s get stuck in and take a bite out of the tasty tech-specs of our chosen model, the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop - PH18-73-99A8.
* OS: Windows 11 Pro
* Processor: Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX processor Tetracosa-core (24 Core™) 2.70 GHz
* GPU: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5090 with 24 GB dedicated memory
* Memory: 192 GB, DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 6 TB SSD
* Display: 18" WQUXGA (3840 x 2400) 16:10 IPS 120 Hz
* Display Screen Technology: ComfyView (Matte); In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology; Eyesafe
* Speakers: 6
* Network: Wireless LAN Killer 1750x IEEE 802.11be
* Bluetooth: 5.4 or above
* Built in Devices: Webcam, microphone
* Interfaces: HDMI, 5 x USB, Network (RJ-45), audio in/out
* Color: Abyssal Black
* Dimensions: 15.79” x 12.1” x 1.16”
* Weight (Approx): 7.72 lb
Season of the abyssal black Predator Helios 18
If you’ve taken a moment to digest these specs, then you’re ready to step into the arena of the Predator Helios 18 and its never ending parade of transforming RGB lights! As you can see from the tech-specs, this is a gargantuan of gaming with built in AI features that anticipate your next move, adapting on your gaming odyssey. Let’s take a peek under the hood and see what Acer’s most powerful gaming laptop to date has to offer.
Desktop level performance in a laptop?
Starting with the CPU, the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX is top of the line, with 24 cores. 8 cores get the heavy lifting done, while the other 16 cores ensure that everything in the background is covered. The CPU’s clock speed of 2.70 GHz can be overclocked to a maximum of 5.4 GHz giving you a tremendous speed boost when it’s needed. This CPU (obviously) has a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for you to offload tasks like background removal and audio optimization for seamless streaming. On top of this, Intel Application Optimization (APO) continually tweaks and fine tunes your PCs performance so you can get the most out of the latest games and older titles.
Game changer: Nvidia RTX 5090
As we mentioned above, the NVIDIA RTX 5090 is currently the most powerful graphics card that you can get your hands on. Rave reviews aside, the Nvidia RTX 5090 is a multi frame generating monster offering raw-knuckle frame rates like you never experienced before. For both gamers and creators, the AI capabilities of this GPU are nothing short of groundbreaking. Built on Nvidia’s Blackwell architecture, the RTX 5090 is capable of 1824 AI TOPS, a veritable mountain of AI computing power.
DLSS 4 harnesses AI to increase FPS, sharpen images, and reduce lag. DLSS 4 also adds Multi Frame Generation, adding between 1-3 driven frames for each native frame drawn by the GPU. In addition, Ray Reconstruction, and Super Resolution technologies both multiply and clarify your performance. Finally, full ray tracing with neural rendering smashes out lifelike light and shadows with the help of 4th-gen RT cores + 5th-gen Tensor cores. Creators can harness the high-octane power of Nvidia Studio support for editing, 3D and design projects. Remember as well that this GPU opens the door to running any game currently on the market at 4k, no problem. We’ll even go as far as saying that you’ll most likely be able to run the latest games on highest settings for the next 5 years, or so!
Seeing things: 18” 4K Mini LED Display
This 18” laptop has a screen that simply has to be seen to be believed. Mini LED technology stretched across at a 16:10 ratio for increased vertical space, with up to 4K WQXGA resolution means this laptop can double as your gaming platform and cinema. 1000 nits peak brightness equates to brighter highlights and deeper contrast, while DCI-P3 100% color gamut means insanely accurate, cinema-level color.
The Predator Helios 18 AI has an adaptable dual-mode display, providing you with the best of both gaming and streaming worlds. Simply toggle between 4K at 120 Hz for sharp, cinematic visuals, and FHD at 240 Hz for silky-smooth gameplay, while Nvidia G-SYNC prevents tearing.
Cool and in control: AeroBlade & MagKey 4.0
All this power requires some serious cooling technology, and that’s where the 6th Gen AeroBlade 3D fans come in. Precision engineered for maximum cooling, the world’s thinnest fan blades are merely 0.05mm thick, with 100 metal blades per fan. This delivers 20% better airflow efficiency as the AeroBlade fans automatically adjust themselves to system requirements.
Let’s not forget the keyboard! Backlit milky way RGB dynamic per-key lighting turns every keystroke into a personal masterpiece, while magnetic actuation means faster, more precise keystrokes. 0.3mm key travel cuts down on the distance each key must commute, meaning short and sharp keyboard taps that count. With a total of eight swappable WASD and arrow keys, this is a keyboard that is tailored for gamers.
AI integration and PredatorSense
The Predator Helios 18 AI boasts an enviable range of AI features, including Acer’s own ProCam to auto-record your gaming highlights. PurifiedView provides auto-framing, background blur, and gaze correction, while PurifiedVoice 2.0 filters out pesky background noise with AI tech and a helpful 3rd mic.
PredatorSense app is your operations station to manage fan and lighting settings in real time, including fully customizable per-key RGB lighting. This app is also used to overclock your CPU and GPU for a performance boost, as needed. This futuristic lighting system also features the atmospheric MilkyWay RGB glow at the rear of the device, cover logo illumination mirroring each moment of action, and the infinite ring L-shape and palm rest lighting add a further touch of class to the device.
Prepare for excellence
That’s about all we’ve got time for today. We hope you’ve enjoyed dipping your toe into the futuristic waters of Acer’s Predator Helios 18 AI. Acer’s most powerful gaming laptop to date is an AI optimized gaming beast that for all intents and purposes feels like a desktop rig shrunk into laptop size for gamers and creators who want to explore new frontiers. Intelligent, powerful, adaptable, and future ready, Acer’s Predator Helios 18 is ready when you are.
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4 New Microsoft Copilot Features Available on Copilot+ PCs
Copilot+ PCs continue to evolve, with new features now generally available or in preview across a variety of Windows applications and Teams. These updates are designed to do more than just save time - they help businesses work more efficiently, stay connected, and collaborate seamlessly across regions.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the latest Copilot+ PCs capabilities available today that range from contextual productivity tools and smarter searching to content recall and real-time translation. Each one is designed to address real-world business challenges, turning Copilot into a true workplace assistant that is both powerful and practical.
Recall (Preview)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfi9NRGnqqU
For professionals managing multiple projects and information sources, Recall (Preview) introduces a new way to rediscover what matters. Exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, Recall captures snapshots of your screen every few seconds and stores them securely on your device. You can then search for past content using natural language - for example, “the chart I saw last Tuesday” or “the email about Q4 forecasts.” It’s especially useful for analysts, managers, and executives that tend to handle a multitude of tasks and documents.
Click to Do (Preview)
What if you could act on what’s on your screen - without switching apps or copying text manually? Click to Do (Preview) makes that possible by letting you interact directly with visible content on your screen. Currently available on Copilot+ PCs, it allows you to highlight text to quickly summarize, create bullet points, or rewrite content in different tones - making tasks like reading and drafting large amounts of emails much easier. It’s especially useful for streamlining workflows across teams, whether you’re refining proposals, extracting details from screenshots, or reworking client communications.
Live Captions
Live Captions helps teams communicate effortlessly across languages by providing real-time captions and translations during meetings, webinars, and presentations. It currently supports translating speech from 44 languages into English and 27 languages into Simplified Chinese, automatically converting spoken dialogue into readable captions onscreen, making global collaboration smoother and more inclusive - no matter whether you’re connecting with international colleagues or hosting multilingual sessions. This capability is currently rolling out to Copilot+ PCs, with Microsoft planning to expand language support and improve translation accuracy over time.
Improved Windows Search
The new and improved Windows Search helps users find what they need faster, using the language they naturally speak. Instead of relying on exact filenames or rigid keywords, you can now search with conversational phrases like “open the presentation from last Friday’s sales meeting” or “find the Excel sheet with Q2 revenue.” This update should prove to be a major productivity boost for teams managing large volumes of files - especially in marketing, HR, and legal departments.
Conclusion
With these new capabilities, Copilot+ PCs are redefining how professionals work, combining intelligent features with powerful performance to simplify daily tasks and enhance collaboration. From acting on on-screen content and finding information faster to rediscovering past work and translating in real time, Copilot+ PCs empower teams to stay productive and connected wherever they work.
When paired with devices like the Acer TravelMate P6 14, Acer TravelMate X4 14 AI, and other AI laptops designed for business performance, long battery life, and reliable connectivity, the capabilities of Copilot+ PCs become even more impactful. Together, they create a modern, AI-enhanced workspace where professionals can collaborate effortlessly, access information quickly, and turn insights into action.
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Aspire Go 15: Simple, Reliable, Ready to Go
The Aspire Go 15 is an affordable, user-friendly laptop that is perfect for everyday work tasks. This article will explore the laptop’s specifications and features, including 16 GB standard memory and 4.60 GHZ turbo processor speed. The Aspire Go 15 is thin and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for those who carry a laptop on their travels. It is the perfect companion for everyday work tasks like writing emails and documents.
Specifications
* Windows 11 Home
* Intel® Core™ i5-13420H processor Octa-core 2.10 GHz
* 16 GB DDR5 SDRAM
* 512 GB SSD
* 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) 16:9 ComfyView (Matte) 60 Hz, IPS
* 3.97 lb (1.80 kg)
* 0.78 x 14.3 x 9.4 inches (1.98 x 36.32 x 23.87 cm)
Aspire Go 15 features
The Aspire Go 15 is an excellent budget laptop that packs a punch. Here are some of its features.
1. A fresh perspective with Windows 11
Windows 11 gives a calming space where users can explore their passions and creativity. From the rejuvenated Start menu to new ways of connecting with friends and family, Windows 11 devices offer everything needed for an outstanding user experience. The Aspire Go 15 is a Windows 11 laptop, providing a fresh perspective within one sleek device.
2. High performance and multi-tasking
13th Gen Intel® Core™ Processors make multi-tasking look easy. These processors advance real-world computing and deliver ultra-efficient performance every time. As such, the Aspire Go 15 supports intense work sessions.
3. Versatility and power
The Aspire Go 15 delivers on-the-go power whenever it is needed. Alongside work tasks, this versatile device offers low power consumption via the Core™ i5 processor.
4. Top performance
Double Data Rate (DDR) 5 RAM maximizes performance and offers lightning fast speed, higher bandwidth, and lower power consumption, letting users easily complete work tasks like writing emails and documents. It also provides higher memory efficiency and lower latency, which enhances speed and performance.
Why should you buy the Aspire Go 15 laptop?
This user-friendly budget laptop has everything you need to complete light work tasks. The Aspire Go 15 laptop makes multitasking a breeze while delivering excellent performance without sacrificing power consumption. Whether you are working from home or on the go, the Aspire Go 15 laptop is a great work companion. Check out the Acer store and get yours today.
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Hardest Bosses in Hades 2
Hades 2 raises the stakes of every Underworld escape with a new lineup of bosses drawn from Greek mythology, from ancient Titans to your own teacher and even your family pet. Each major fight tests your mastery of Boons, Arcana, and Nocturnal Arms in different ways, blending pattern recognition, reflex, and resource management into one relentless challenge.
While early bosses like Hecate teach you core combat fundamentals, late-game foes such as Chronos and Typhon demand near-perfect execution and build synergy. This ranking lists every major boss in Hades 2 from easiest to hardest, based on attack complexity, phase design, and overall difficulty on standard runs without Vow of Rivals modifiers.
10. Polyphemus
Polyphemus is the final boss of the City of Ephyra, the first surface region in Hades 2. Despite his size and power, he is one of the game’s more predictable bosses once you learn his patterns. Most of his attacks are slow melee strikes that deal heavy damage but have clear visual cues, including ground slams, shockwave jumps, leg sweeps, and a grab attack.
He occasionally summons enemies to distract you and may even call in sheep during the fight, which you should eliminate quickly to prevent interference. Because all his attacks are short-ranged, the best strategy is to maintain distance and use ranged weapons or magic-based builds. With patience and positioning, Polyphemus becomes a straightforward fight that rewards careful dodging and steady offense.
9. Queen Lamia
Queen Lamia is a mini-boss encountered in the Fields of Mourning, the third region in Hades 2. She commands both powerful magic and several Lamia minions, making her one of the more chaotic midgame encounters. Her fight revolves around constant movement and crowd control rather than raw damage.
Lamia’s main attacks include vertical tracking lasers, a ground slam that deals area damage, and orb projectiles that burst into slimes if not destroyed. During the fight, four armored Lamia minions join the battle, each casting their own lasers until their armor is broken. Taking them out early is critical to reducing pressure and regaining space in the arena.
The best strategy is to stay mobile and use ranged attacks to chip away at Lamia’s armor before closing in for direct hits. Boons from Hestia or Demeter are especially useful: Hestia’s scorch effects add steady damage, while Demeter’s freeze slows Lamia’s movements and opens safe windows for counterattacks. Once her armor breaks, the rest of the fight ends quickly, making patience the key to victory.
8. Headmistress Hecate
Headmistress Hecate is the first major boss in Hades 2, encountered at the end of the Erebus region on the Tartarus route. As Melinoe’s mentor, she tests your readiness before you can progress to Oceanus. Hecate’s fight is a mix of magical and summoning attacks, and while she is not especially difficult, her variety of patterns can overwhelm new players during early runs.
Her moveset includes expanding flame circles, twin flame projectiles, crescent arcs, and summoning wraiths that attack from range. At lower health, she creates mirror images that replicate her spells, forcing you to find and target the real one. In her final phase, Hecate casts Hex, which can transform you into a sheep or fill the arena with rotating lasers, homing fireballs, or ground traps that punish poor positioning.
Ranged attacks and mobility-focused builds are the safest way to defeat her. Boons like Apollo’s Nova Strike, Artemis’s Support Fire, and Hermes’s Swift Flourish help maintain distance while steadily chipping away at her health. Once you learn her spell timings, Hecate becomes more of a skill check than a true roadblock.
7. Infernal Beast
The Infernal Beast, a corrupted version of Cerberus, is the final boss of the Fields of Mourning region in Hades 2. Once Melinoe’s loyal companion, the hound has been twisted by Chronos’ influence, turning this encounter into a battle of redemption rather than simple conquest.
Cerberus relies on wide, sweeping melee and fire-based attacks. His moves include Ground Slam, Flame Slash, and Fire Breath, each covering large portions of the arena. When his health drops to half, he fills the field with red circles that mark incoming area attacks. The key strategy is to stay mobile and strike from behind, avoiding his frontal swipes and flames.
Boons that add damage over time or enhance mobility work best here. Aphrodite’s Passion Dash, Hestia’s Smolder Ring, and Apollo’s Solar Ring help maintain constant damage output while keeping you out of harm’s way. Once defeated, Cerberus drops a Tear, symbolizing his liberation from Chronos’ control.
6. King Vermin
King Vermin is a rare mini-boss found in the Oceanus region of Hades 2. Despite being an optional encounter, it’s tough enough to rival full boss fights and is infamous for its speed and unpredictable movement. The creature constantly darts around the arena with Charging Rush and Screaming Attack, both of which deal heavy damage if not dodged in time.
At around 70% health, King Vermin begins summoning Wretched Pests that hurl bombs across the battlefield. These explosions damage both Melinoe and the boss itself, allowing clever players to turn its minions against it. When cornered, King Vermin uses Jump Slam, an area attack that punishes staying too close.
The best approach is to keep distance and rely on Cast-based attacks to hit safely between its rushes. Use your dashes sparingly to evade its AoE slams, and if possible, lure the boss near its own bombs for bonus damage. Though not a required fight, defeating King Vermin rewards a random boon or upgrade and proves you’re ready for the escalating pace of Hades 2’s later battles.
5. Scylla and the Sirens
Scylla and the Sirens are the final bosses of Oceanus, the second major region in Hades 2. This fight is both chaotic and theatrical, featuring three performers who share a single health pool: Scylla the vocalist, Jetty the guitarist, and Roxy the drummer. Each brings a distinct attack style that tests your awareness and mobility.
In Phase 1, all three fight together using their unique abilities. Scylla unleashes sonic screams, spinning blades, and homing melody orbs. Jetty dashes across the stage and launches bouncing projectiles, while Roxy fills the arena with rhythmic shockwaves that force you to move constantly.
Phase 2 introduces the Featured Artist mechanic, where one Siren gains new abilities. Scylla extends her range and increases her number of orbs, Jetty moves faster and creates multiple expanding waves, and Roxy adds more complex area attacks. After all three are defeated, Phase 3 begins with Scylla performing solo while summoning endless Pinhead fish until her health is fully depleted.
The best approach is to focus on one Siren at a time, taking out Roxy first to reduce area-of-effect pressure. Boons like Aphrodite’s Heartbreak Strike for stronger attacks, Zeus’s Storm Ring for damage against stationary enemies, and Hermes’s Nitro Boost for faster dodges make the fight more manageable. Winning rewards you with a Pearl and opens the path to the Fields of Mourning.
4. Zagreus
Zagreus, the Prince of the Underworld and Melinoe’s older brother, is one of the most thrilling secret bosses in Hades 2. You can only challenge him after completing the true ending and unlocking the epilogue, where Chronos’ defeat restores balance to the Underworld. This encounter serves as a symbolic duel between siblings — a test of everything Melinoe has learned throughout her journey.
To find him, look for the Infernal Contract, a red scroll that can randomly appear in any of Charon’s shops. Interacting with it transports you to Elysium’s colosseum, the same arena where Zagreus once fought Theseus and Asterius in the first game. There, you’ll face the former hero of the Underworld himself, wielding Gigaros, the spear once belonging to Hades.
In Phase 1, Zagreus relies on speed and precision. His Dash Strike lets him close gaps quickly, while Whirlwind Sweep spins his spear in a circular slash that punishes anyone nearby. He also throws his Cast, a red projectile that detonates on impact. Most of his attacks are close-ranged, so keeping your distance and striking between his recovery windows is key.
After depleting his health once, Zagreus uses Death Defiance, reviving at half health and entering Phase 2. This phase plays almost identically, but he becomes much faster, often chaining dashes before attacking. He can also turn invisible briefly to reposition or ambush you. When this happens, keep moving — his next strike will usually target your last location.
The safest approach is to kite Zagreus across the arena using ranged weapons or Omega abilities, attacking while he recovers from his melee combos. Pillars in the colosseum can block many of his spear attacks and projectiles, allowing you to reposition or regenerate Magick.
For boons, prioritize ranged and Magick-based builds. Hestia’s Controlled Burn and Poseidon’s Geyser Sprout give you reliable crowd control, while Zeus’s Heaven Strike inflicts Blitz damage for extra punishment after each hit. Ionic Gain from Zeus is also invaluable, creating an orb that restores your Magick throughout the battle.
Zagreus hits hard but is predictable once you learn his rhythm. Wait for him to dash, dodge sideways, and retaliate with projectiles or quick Omega attacks. Using your Cast to slow him down gives you extra breathing room. Patience is crucial here, it’s a battle of endurance and precision, not speed.
Defeating Zagreus crowns Melinoe as the new Champion of Elysium, granting access to free items in Charon’s shop for a limited time. Beat him again, and you’ll earn his Keepsake, which dramatically increases the rarity of boons during future runs, a fitting reward for besting the original Prince of the Underworld.
3. Prometheus
Prometheus, the Titan of Foresight, appears near the summit of Mount Olympus and is one of the hardest bosses in Hades 2. The fight revolves around constant fire hazards and heavy area control that punish players who stop moving.
He begins with Aetos Summon, calling his eagle to strafe the arena with projectiles before joining the fight himself. His main attacks include Flame Vortex, Wave of Flame, and Fists of Flame, all of which leave burning trails on the ground. He also uses Arena Trap and Flame Ring Slam, which mark the ground before exploding into lingering fire, and Flames of Foresight, an attack that fills most of the arena with flame patterns you must memorize to survive.
Prometheus’s attack patterns stay consistent throughout the battle, but the arena becomes increasingly difficult to navigate as more fire zones appear. Boons that grant Deflect abilities from Athena are extremely effective because they can reflect projectiles and prevent being cornered. Mobility buffs from Hermes, Aphrodite, or Hestia also help you escape his zoning attacks.
The safest openings to strike come after Flame Vortex or Wave of Flame, when Prometheus pauses briefly. Staying near the edge of the arena helps control where his flame attacks land, and moving sideways is safer than backing away directly from him. Once defeated, Prometheus drops a feather and opens the way to the peak of Mount Olympus.
2. Chronos
Chronos, the Titan of Time, serves as the final boss of Hades 2 and represents the ultimate test of skill and endurance. As Melinoe’s grandfather and the ruler of Tartarus, his mastery over time creates one of the most visually complex and mechanically demanding battles in the game.
You can find Chronos at the end of the Underworld route, following victories over Hecate, Scylla and the Sirens, and the corrupted Cerberus. His arena resembles a massive clock face, complete with shifting hazards that reflect his control of time. The fight consists of two major phases, each layering new mechanics on top of existing ones.
In the first phase, Chronos relies on direct melee strikes and temporal distortions. He opens with Scythe Toss, a wide semi-circular throw that can be avoided by dashing through or around him. Rift of Time leaves explosive trails on the floor, while Time Twister creates a suction effect that pulls Melinoe toward his spinning scythe. He can also summon Time Spheres that orbit him before flying outward and curving back, as well as Time Stop Barriers that freeze both Melinoe and his own minions. Occasionally, he will call upon Forces of Time, summoning satyrs and shield-bearing enemies to overwhelm the player.
The second phase begins after Chronos’ first health bar is depleted. He immediately unleashes Timely Demise, a deadly attack that fills the arena in red light, leaving only a small safe zone marked on one of the numbered tiles. Standing outside this zone results in instant death. This phase adds several more time-based hazards, including Running Out of Time, where the edges of the arena collapse inward, and Nick of Time, which places two concentric rings that explode unless you stand between them. His Hands of Time attack turns the arena into a rotating clock pattern that deals damage as the glowing “hands” sweep across the floor.
Chronos’ arena hazards force you to stay constantly mobile while keeping track of multiple overlapping patterns. Most of his attacks can be dodged by moving diagonally or dashing behind him. The safest time to strike is after his Scythe Slash or Sphere Release attacks, when he pauses momentarily before repositioning. Clearing out summoned minions early prevents them from healing him in phase two.
For boons, prioritize Athena’s Deflect abilities like Divine Dash or Defensive Posture to counter projectiles, and Hephaestus’ Security System for a short damage shield at the start of combat. Renewed Faith from Athena is especially powerful since it restores all lost Death Defiances and boosts their recovery. Artemis’ Death Warrant can mark Chronos for critical bursts, while Hermes’ Racing Thoughts speeds up Omega casts, letting you deal heavy damage before his next time-based attack triggers.
Chronos is less about reflexes and more about precision. His attacks follow strict visual tells, so mastering timing and positioning is the key to surviving the clockwork chaos. Once defeated, the Titan of Time drops materials linked to the Temporal Fluctuation incantation, rewarding players who finally stop Time itself.
1. Typhon
Typhon, the Father of All Monsters, is the final boss of Hades 2’s surface route and one of the most demanding encounters in the entire game. Standing at the peak of Mount Olympus, he embodies chaos and raw power, combining devastating melee attacks with sweeping projectiles and arena-wide hazards. To reach him, Melinoe must first defeat Polyphemus, Eris, and Prometheus before ascending to the summit.
The battle unfolds across four distinct phases, each raising the intensity while forcing you to balance offense and survival.
In the first phase, Typhon relies on straightforward but punishing attacks. His Tusk Slam creates wide shockwaves across the platform, while Laser Tongue sweeps a red beam horizontally across the arena. Exploding Eyeballs burst into smaller projectiles upon impact, forcing you to stay mobile, and his Breath generates tornado-like gusts that push Melinoe off balance. Keeping close to his face for quick strikes and dodging diagonally through his laser patterns helps minimize damage early on.
The second phase shifts the fight into a storm-filled arena where Typhon vanishes temporarily, leaving behind monster eggs. These eggs hatch into swarming enemies if ignored, so prioritize breaking them immediately. Once cleared, Typhon returns and resumes his earlier attacks with faster timing.
During the third phase, Zeus intervenes, striking Typhon with lightning that stuns him briefly and opens a window for heavy damage. This is your best opportunity to unleash Omega attacks and Arcana buffs before he recovers. Failing to capitalize here allows him to reenter his original attack pattern at full strength.
In the final phase, Typhon combines all of his earlier attacks with enhanced versions. His Blade Whip summons spinning tentacles from the ground that travel up the arena in sets of three. His Desperate Tusk Slam and Laser Tongue hit twice as fast and twice as hard, while Desperate Exploding Eyeballs now fill most of the screen with volatile fragments. Maintaining distance, timing dashes at the last second, and focusing on precision strikes between his heavy swings are crucial to surviving this final stretch.
For boons, Athena’s Divine Dash and Defensive Posture provide vital protection and deflection against Typhon’s projectiles. Aphrodite’s Glamour Gain restores Magick while weakening nearby enemies, and Selene’s Phase Shift slows time, making his rapid attacks easier to avoid. Pair these with Poseidon’s Water Fitness and Demeter’s Frosty Veneer for added health and damage mitigation.
Typhon’s fight rewards patience, spatial awareness, and burst damage. Memorizing the rhythm of his slams and laser sweeps allows you to slip between openings safely, while quick reactions to egg spawns prevent being overwhelmed. With the right defensive boons and timing, you can withstand his storm and bring down the Father of Monsters for good.
Conclusion
Hades 2 pushes every encounter to new extremes, from the haunting rhythm of Scylla’s concert to the time-warping chaos of Chronos and the raw, unrelenting power of Typhon. Each boss tests a different skill: awareness, adaptability, patience, and mastery of your build. While early fights like Hecate and Polyphemus train you to read attack patterns, later battles such as Prometheus and Chronos demand near-perfect execution.
No matter how strong your Arcana setup or boon combination, success comes from recognizing each boss’s rhythm and exploiting their openings. Melinoe’s journey is about growth, and every duel, whether against gods, monsters, or her own brother Zagreus, reflects that evolution.
Defeating these foes is not just a measure of strength but of understanding. Each run teaches something new about timing, positioning, and resilience. When you have conquered both Chronos in the depths and Typhon at the summit, you will have mastered not only the world of Hades 2 but the trials of time and fate themselves.
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Hades 2 Arcana Cards Guide and Best Cards to Use
In Hades 2, the Arcana Cards form the foundation of Melinoë’s progression system, replacing the Mirror of Night from the first game. You unlock and activate Arcana at the Altar of Ashes, using resources such as Ashes, Psyche, Moon Dust, and Star Dust to expand and enhance your deck.
Each of the 25 Arcana functions like a tarot card that provides a permanent passive effect during your run. Some focus on direct combat boosts, such as The Sorceress which speeds up Omega attacks, while others like The Queen increase your chances of receiving rare Duo Boons.
The Arcana system affects every aspect of progression in Hades 2:
* Ashes are spent to unlock new cards on the Altar grid.
* Psyche raises your Grasp, which determines how many cards you can equip at once.
* Moon Dust and Star Dust enhance Arcana through Insight, improving their effects.
You can rearrange your Arcana loadout before each run to match your weapon, Aspect, or playstyle. Later, the Spreading of Ashes incantation allows you to save up to six custom Arcana presets for quick switching.
Unlike the Mirror of Night, which offered fixed stat bonuses, the Arcana system provides deeper customization. The cards you choose and the way you combine them directly influence your build, including your Magick recovery rate, resource generation, and the rarity of Boons you encounter.
How to unlock and upgrade Arcana cards
You unlock Arcana by interacting with the Altar of Ashes, which becomes available early in the game. Each card is revealed and activated using specific materials gathered during your runs. These materials are all part of Hades 2’s long-term progression system and are tied to exploration, combat, and incantations at the Crossroads.
Resources used for Arcana progression
* Ashes – The basic currency for unlocking new Arcana cards. You can earn Ashes as rewards from encounters, chests, or certain surface routes. Each card costs a different amount depending on its power and position on the grid.
* Psyche – Used to increase your Grasp, which determines how many Arcana cards you can have active at once. Each Arcana consumes a specific amount of Grasp, so raising your limit allows for more complex builds. Psyche is usually obtained from saving Shades or completing story objectives.
* Moon Dust – Unlocks Insight, which enhances the strength of individual Arcana cards. For example, upgrading The Death increases the number of Death Defiance charges available each run.
* Star Dust – A rare material used for higher levels of Insight. Star Dust is primarily earned through Trials of Chaos, which are advanced challenge arenas unlocked later in the game.
Incantations tied to Arcana upgrades
Two incantations expand the system’s depth:
* Consecration of Ashes unlocks Insight, allowing you to spend Moon Dust to upgrade Arcana effects.
* Abyssal Insight grants access to the Trials of Chaos, where you can collect Star Dust for the highest-tier Arcana enhancements.
A third incantation, Spreading of Ashes, lets you save and label up to six Arcana loadouts. This feature is useful when switching between weapons or routes, as different builds benefit from specific Arcana combinations.
Understanding Grasp
Every Arcana has a Grasp cost ranging from 0 to 6. The higher the cost, the stronger the effect. Your total Grasp capacity limits how many cards you can activate at once. For example, if you have 20 Grasp and activate cards that cost 1, 4, 5, 5, and 5, you will reach the cap and need more Psyche to add additional cards.
Managing Grasp is one of the key strategic decisions in Hades 2. Early on, you will have enough capacity for only a few core cards, so prioritizing upgrades that improve survivability or Magick recovery is more valuable than minor bonuses. As your Grasp increases, you can experiment with more advanced builds and synergy-based effects.
All Arcana cards in Hades 2
I – The Sorceress (1 Grasp)
* Your Omega Moves are 10 / 20 / 30 percent faster.
II – The Wayward Son (1 Grasp)
* After you exit a location, restore 2 / 3 / 4 Health, or twice that amount when below 30 percent maximum Life.
III – The Huntress (2 Grasp)
* While you have less than 100 percent Magick, your Attack and Special deal +30 / 40 / 50 percent damage.
IV – Night (3 Grasp)
* While you channel Omega Moves, everything moves slower for up to 1.2 seconds.
V – The Moon (0 Grasp)
* Your Hex charges automatically as if you spent 1 / 2 / 3 Magick every second.
(activation: activates any surrounding card)
VI – The Furies (2 Grasp)
* Deal +10 / 20 / 30 percent damage to foes in your Cast.
VII – Eternity (2 Grasp)
* Gain +20 / 30 / 40 maximum Life and Magick.
VIII – The Messenger (1 Grasp)
* Your Casts momentarily make you impervious and move up to 70 percent faster.
IX – The Unseen (5 Grasp)
* Restore 5 / 7 / 10 Magick every second.
X – Night (2 Grasp)
* Your Omega Moves have a +9 / 12 / 15 percent chance to deal critical damage if your last one was different.
XI – The Swift Runner (1 Grasp)
* Your Sprint is 5 / 7 / 10 percent faster and lets you pass through most enemies.
XII – Death (4 Grasp)
* Set forth each night with 1 / 2 / 3 Death Defiance.
XIII – The Centaur (0 Grasp)
* After every five locations, gain 3 / 4 / 5 maximum Life and Magick.
(activation: requires active cards using 1 – 5 Grasp)
XIV – Origination (5 Grasp)
* Deal +30 / 40 / 50 percent damage to enemies afflicted by two Curse effects from the Olympians.
XV – The Lovers (3 Grasp)
* In Guardian encounters, you take no damage the first 1 / 2 / 3 times you are hit.
XVI – The Enchantress (3 Grasp)
* Set forth each night with 1 / 2 / 3 Change of Fate charges used to alter Location Rewards.
XVII – The Boatman (5 Grasp)
* Set forth each night with 200 / 250 / 300 Crowns.
XVIII – The Artificer (3 Grasp)
* Set forth each night with 1 / 2 / 3 chances to turn any Minor Find into a Major Find.
XIX – Excellence (5 Grasp)
* Any Boons you are offered have a +30 / 40 / 50 percent chance to be Rare or Legendary.
XX – The Queen (0 Grasp)
* Any Boons you are offered have a 6 / 8 / 10 percent chance to be Duo Boons whenever possible.
(activation: no more than two active cards can have the same Grasp cost)
XXI – The Fates (0 Grasp)
* Set forth each night with 2 / 3 / 4 Change of Fate.
(activation: activates all surrounding cards)
XXII – The Champions (4 Grasp)
* Set forth each night with 1 / 2 / 3 Change of Fate charges used to alter Boon Rewards.
XXIII – Strength (4 Grasp)
* While you have no Death Defiance effects, you take –30 / 40 / 50 percent damage and deal +25 percent.
XXIV – Divinity (0 Grasp)
* Any Boons offered have a +10 / 15 / 20 percent chance to be Epic.
(activation: activates when all five cards in a row or column are active)
XXV – Judgment (0 Grasp)
* After you vanquish a Guardian, activate 3 / 4 / 5 random Arcana cards.
(activation: activates only when no more than three cards are active)
Top Arcana cards you must use
1. XII – Death (4 Grasp)
Grants one or more Death Defiance charges at the start of each night. This effect functions as an extra life, restoring Melinoë after defeat. It provides critical survivability in early and mid-game runs and remains useful even in late-game challenges.
2. VII – Eternity (2 Grasp)
Increases maximum Life and Magick by a flat amount. The dual boost benefits every weapon and build type, improving both survivability and resource efficiency. Its low cost and universal value make it one of the first cards worth unlocking and keeping active.
3. IX – The Unseen (5 Grasp)
Restores Magick automatically every second. This card supports continuous casting and Omega attacks without relying on pickups or cooldowns. It is essential for Hex-based or Magick-focused playstyles that require steady resource regeneration.
4. XIV – Origination (5 Grasp)
Increases damage against enemies affected by two Olympian Curses. This Arcana rewards synergy between different gods’ Boons, allowing for massive burst damage when combining elemental afflictions like Freeze, Scorch, or Daze.
5. XIX – Excellence (5 Grasp)
Raises the chance for Boons to appear as Rare or Legendary. Over time, this leads to stronger builds with more impactful abilities. It is especially effective once reroll Arcana are unlocked, allowing consistent access to high-tier Boons.
6. XV – The Lovers (3 Grasp)
Prevents the first few hits of damage during Guardian encounters. This offers reliable protection during boss fights, often saving a full Death Defiance charge and giving players a buffer to learn attack patterns.
7. XXII – The Champions (4 Grasp)
Adds rerolls for Boon rewards at the start of each run. Rerolling helps shape optimized builds by replacing weak or redundant Boons. When combined with The Enchantress or The Fates, it forms part of the strongest reroll setup in the game.
8. XX – The Queen (0 Grasp)
Costs no Grasp and increases the chance of receiving Duo Boons. The only condition is that no more than two active Arcana can share the same Grasp cost. This is one of the best zero-cost cards, offering significant power growth through Duo Boon access.
9. XVII – The Boatman (5 Grasp)
Provides several hundred Crowns at the start of each night. The early gold advantage allows for immediate purchases from Charon’s shop, including Boons, Poms, or healing. It ensures a strong start and greater build flexibility throughout the run.
10. XXIII – Strength (4 Grasp)
Reduces incoming damage and increases your own when no Death Defiance effects remain. This card rewards careful play and becomes powerful in the late game, allowing experienced players to maximize damage output while staying protected.
How to build your Arcana deck
Building an effective Arcana deck in Hades 2 depends on balancing your total Grasp with the type of build you want to run. Each card consumes a set amount of Grasp, and your total capacity determines how many can be active at once. As you collect Psyche, your Grasp will increase, allowing for more flexible loadouts.
1. Balance offense and defense
Begin every deck with at least one defensive Arcana and one offensive Arcana. Death and Eternity are common defensive choices that keep you alive through longer runs, while cards like The Sorceress or The Furies provide steady damage output. Avoid spending all of your Grasp on high-cost damage cards early on, since survival and Magick recovery are more valuable for consistency.
2. Manage Grasp efficiency
Low-cost Arcana such as The Wayward Son or The Swift Runner can fill leftover Grasp points without wasting capacity. It is better to use all available Grasp rather than leave unused points, since every slot contributes to your overall effectiveness.
3. Match your Arcana to your weapon and Aspect
Each weapon in Hades 2 benefits from different Arcana combinations.
* Aspect of Melinoë: Works well with The Huntress and The Sorceress for faster and stronger Omega attacks.
* Aspect of Momus: Pairs best with Night (X) and Night (IV) since both reward alternating or channeling Omega moves.
* Aspect of Hecate or Selene-focused builds: Take The Moon and The Unseen for stronger Hex performance and Magick regeneration.
4. Consider path-specific adjustments
If you plan to descend toward Tartarus, focus on sustain and defense since enemy density is higher. For Olympus routes, prioritize offense and Boon quality cards such as Excellence or The Queen to optimize high-value rewards.
5. Use saved loadouts
Once you unlock the Spreading of Ashes incantation, you can save up to six Arcana loadouts. Labeling each loadout by weapon or route (for example, “Scythe Build” or “Surface Route”) allows you to switch between optimized decks instantly without rearranging cards manually.
Trials of Chaos and Arcana enhancement
After unlocking the Abyssal Insight incantation, you gain access to the Trials of Chaos, a series of challenge encounters that reward Star Dust, the rarest Arcana upgrade material. These trials are key to completing the Insight enhancement process and fully upgrading your Arcana deck.
How Trials of Chaos work
* Each Trial consists of a single area with fixed conditions that restrict your loadout or alter enemy behavior.
* You must clear the zone using the provided constraints.
* Completing a Trial grants Star Dust, which is used to upgrade Arcana cards that require it for higher Insight levels.
The early trials, such as the Trial of Origin, are simple and suitable for testing basic builds. Later ones become progressively harder, introducing modifiers that test both offense and survival.
Enhancing Arcana through Insight
* Moon Dust upgrades standard Arcana cards and unlocks their first or second tier of Insight.
* Star Dust is used for final-tier enhancements on more powerful cards, such as Death or Excellence.
* Upgrading through Insight increases numerical bonuses or adds additional effects depending on the card.
Fully enhancing a card through Insight significantly improves its effectiveness. For example, upgrading Death to its highest Insight level provides additional Death Defiance charges, while Origination gains a higher damage multiplier against cursed enemies.
When to prioritize enhancements
* Upgrade Death, Eternity, and The Unseen first, as they directly improve survivability and Magick management.
* Next, enhance offensive cards like Origination and Excellence to maximize damage and Boon quality.
* Finally, upgrade situational cards such as The Lovers or The Champions once your core setup is complete.
Conclusion
The Arcana system in Hades 2 is the foundation of long-term progression and build customization. Each card adds a unique layer of strategy, allowing players to tailor their runs to specific weapons, Boons, and playstyles. Unlocking new Arcana, expanding Grasp, and enhancing cards through Insight are all part of an ongoing progression loop that rewards consistent experimentation.
Unlike the Mirror of Night from the first game, the Arcana system offers far greater flexibility. Players can adjust their decks before each run, combine offensive and defensive effects, and even unlock Incantations to store multiple preset builds. This makes every run feel distinct and encourages gradual refinement as you gather resources like Ashes, Psyche, Moon Dust, and Star Dust.
Mastering the Arcana system is essential for success in Hades 2. Whether you focus on Magick regeneration, Death Defiance safety nets, or high-damage Boon setups, an optimized Arcana deck ensures that each night in the Underworld begins on your terms.
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All Boons Explained in Hades 2
Boons are one of the core systems that define your power in Hades 2. Granted by the Olympian gods, these divine blessings determine how Melinoë fights each night, changing her attacks, special moves, dashes, and passive abilities. Every run begins with a new set of Boons, forcing players to adapt and experiment with different godly combinations to survive the Underworld and the surface alike.
Unlike the Arcana cards, which provide long-term progression, Boons reset after each run. They form the heart of Hades 2’s roguelike loop, making every attempt unique. From Zeus’s lightning-charged attacks to Demeter’s freezing blasts, each god’s Boons introduce new effects and combat mechanics that can completely transform a weapon’s playstyle.
Mastering how Boons interact with your weapons, Hexes, and Arcana deck is key to building powerful runs and discovering the most effective combinations.
What are boons
Boons are divine gifts offered by the gods and other powerful beings throughout the world of Hades 2. Each Boon grants a unique upgrade that alters how you fight, move, or survive during a run. Unlike permanent systems such as Arcana, Boons reset at the end of each night, so every run begins with a fresh combination of powers.
At the start of each attempt, you’ll encounter a god or benefactor who offers you a choice of three Boons. Each one enhances one of your core actions — Attack, Special, Cast, or Dash — or provides a passive bonus that stays active throughout the run. You can only equip one Boon per active slot (for instance, only one Attack Boon), but you can stack multiple passives for additional effects.
Olympian Boons
Each Olympian god’s Boons reflect their domain and playstyle:
* Zeus – Adds lightning attacks that inflict Blitz, shocking enemies after they take damage.
* Poseidon – Creates knockback effects and area damage with splashing waves.
* Athena (Limited 1 encounter per run) – Grants defensive Deflect abilities that reflect projectiles.
* Ares – Inflicts the Wound curse, increasing the damage enemies take.
* Aphrodite – Applies Weak, reducing enemy attack damage and rewarding close-range combat.
* Artemis (Limited 1 encounter per run) – Increases critical hit chance and precision damage.
* Demeter – Freezes enemies with the Freeze curse, slowing or immobilizing them.
* Apollo – Uses radiant energy to Daze enemies, lowering their accuracy.
* Hephaestus – Adds explosive Blast effects and Armor-based bonuses.
* Hestia – Burns enemies over time with the Scorch curse.
* Hermes – Improves movement, attack speed, and dodge chance.
* Hera – Spreads damage through the Hitch curse, linking enemies together.
* Dionysus – Found on Mount Olympus and offers boons that inflict Hangover, generate Festive Fog, and boost survivability.
* Hades (Limited 1 encounter per run) – Encountered deep within Tartarus, he grants blessings that strengthen your resistance against Chronos and his forces.
Boons appear in four rarity tiers — Common, Rare, Epic, and Heroic — with higher tiers offering stronger versions of the same ability. Certain systems, such as Arcana cards or Hermes Boons, can increase rarity chances or reroll weaker options.
Other divine and mythical benefactors
Not all Boons come from Olympus. As you progress, other beings will offer unique blessings, items, or services that affect your run in different ways:
* Primordial Chaos – Grants powerful Boons that begin as curses. You sacrifice a small amount of health to enter the Realm of Chaos, endure several encounters under a penalty, and then receive a permanent bonus once the curse expires.
* Selene – The moon goddess grants Hexes, ultimate abilities that can be enhanced through the Path of Stars. Hexes consume Magick and can be fused with Olympian power for greater effects.
* Daedalus – The craftsman’s Hammer of Daedalus upgrades your weapon’s base properties, adding new attack types or increasing damage multipliers.
* Arachne – Offers silken garments that act as temporary Armor, providing both defense and secondary bonuses.
* Narcissus – Found in Oceanus, he provides one-time gifts that offer useful bonuses or recovery effects.
* Echo – Residing in the Fields of Strife, she can duplicate your most recent reward, effectively giving you a free repeat of a valuable Boon or item.
* Charon – The ferryman of the Underworld sells helpful items and Boons from Wells of Charon found throughout each region.
* Medea – Provides curse-based Boons that weaken enemies, deal damage over time, or reward you when foes are defeated. She may occasionally appear in the City of Ephyra at a dedicated location.
* Circe – Offers witchcraft- and transformation-themed Boons that can temporarily disable Vows, activate Arcana Cards, or even alter your size. She may occasionally appear in the Rift of Thessaly.
* Icarus – Grants Armor, boosts Power, and provides supportive supplies for the night. He may occasionally appear in the Rift of Thessaly or on Mount Olympus, assisting during encounters.
Together, these figures create a broad network of aid that extends beyond the Olympians. Whether through Hexes, Curses, or one-time gifts, their offerings deepen each run’s sense of variety and replayability.
What are the different types of boons
Boons in Hades 2 come in many forms, each tied to a different god or mythical benefactor. Some directly enhance your attacks and abilities, while others modify your weapon, grant long-term buffs, or alter gameplay in unique ways. Understanding the types of Boons available helps you plan effective builds and adapt to whatever blessings you encounter during a run.
1. Olympian Boons
These are the most common and core Boons in Hades 2. They are granted by the gods of Olympus and modify your core combat actions: Attack, Special, Cast, and Dash, or provide passive bonuses.
* You can only have one Boon for each active move type, but you can stack as many passive Boons as you like.
* Each Olympian’s Boons reflect their divine theme and introduce status effects like Blitz (Zeus), Freeze (Demeter), Weak (Aphrodite), and Wound (Ares).
* Boons appear in four rarity tiers — Common, Rare, Epic, and Heroic — with stronger effects at higher rarities.
2. Legendary Boons
Legendary Boons are rare, high-impact upgrades unique to each god. They provide special effects that can redefine your playstyle and are typically available only after acquiring several of that god’s standard Boons.
Example: Close Call (Hermes) adds a temporary Death Defiance that slows time, giving you a chance to recover before taking another hit.
3. Duo Boons
Duo Boons combine the powers of two gods to produce powerful synergistic effects. They only appear when you already possess compatible Boons from both gods.
Example: Sea Storm (Zeus + Poseidon) triggers lightning strikes whenever your knockback effects hit enemies.
Because they require specific pairings, Duo Boons reward players who build around god synergies instead of mixing Boons at random.
4. Infusion Boons
After unlocking the Divination of the Elements incantation, each Boon gains an elemental attribute. Infusion Boons activate once you collect enough Boons of the same element, granting bonus effects or stat improvements.
Example: Self Healing (Apollo) activates when you hold three Fire-type Boons, restoring health under certain conditions.
5. Chaos Boons
Primordial Chaos offers Boons that come with both an upside and a temporary curse. You sacrifice a portion of your health to enter the Realm of Chaos, where you must endure several encounters under a penalty before the curse transforms into a permanent benefit for the rest of the run.
Example: Fixed Creation locks your Magick temporarily but later increases its regeneration rate.
Chaos Boons are risky but can dramatically boost your damage, resource gain, or mobility once their negative effects expire.
6. Hexes and the Path of Stars
Granted by Selene, Hexes function as ultimate abilities powered by Magick. Each Hex has limited uses and can be upgraded through the Path of Stars, a system that adds enhancements like faster recharge, greater area coverage, or added elemental effects.
Example: Moon Water restores health and can store multiple uses that refill at Fountains.
Hexes can also merge with Olympian Boons to create Godsent Hexes, hybrid abilities that blend Selene’s moonlight powers with the traits of specific gods.
7. Daedalus Hammer Upgrades
The Hammer of Daedalus provides weapon-specific upgrades that alter your attack patterns, range, or power. These are not divine Boons but serve a similar purpose by shaping your combat approach.
Example: Mega Blaze increases the damage and area of your weapon’s standard attack, while Enduring Coil extends the duration of charged moves.
Daedalus upgrades are always worth taking, as they directly enhance your weapon’s potential regardless of Boon loadout.
8. Unique NPC Gifts
A few other mythical figures also offer blessings and items that function like temporary Boons:
* Arachne – Provides woven garments that act as Armor with additional bonuses.
* Narcissus – Grants one-time gifts, often related to recovery or resource gain.
* Echo – Duplicates your most recent reward, giving you a free repeat of a valuable item or Boon.
* Charon – Sells Boons and upgrades through the Wells of Charon located in each region.
Which Boons should I prioritize?
While every god in Hades 2 offers strong options depending on your build, certain Boons stand out for their reliability, versatility, and synergy with most weapons and Aspects. The following ten are among the best to prioritize in nearly any run.
1. Divine Dash (Athena)
Allows your Dash to Deflect projectiles and melee attacks, making you invulnerable during its animation. It’s one of the most universally powerful Boons in the game and works with every weapon.
2. Arctic Ring (Demeter)
Creates a circular area of frost that deals damage and inflicts Freeze. It’s excellent for crowd control and survivability, slowing projectiles and bosses alike while offering steady damage.
3. Sea Storm (Zeus + Poseidon)
A Duo Boon that causes knockback effects to also trigger lightning strikes. This combination offers massive area-of-effect damage and pairs especially well with Poseidon’s Attack or Special Boons.
4. Pressure Points (Artemis)
Gives all of your attacks and abilities a chance to critically hit. It’s a simple but highly effective damage boost that scales with both speed and multi-hit weapons.
5. Blinding Rush (Apollo)
Adds a flash of light to your Dash that Dazes enemies, reducing their chance to hit you. It’s a strong defensive and utility option that fits nearly any playstyle.
6. Grievous Blow (Ares)
Increases the chance for all attacks to deal double damage while the Wound curse is active. When combined with rapid attacks or area weapons, it creates a consistent damage spike.
7. Glamour Gain (Aphrodite)
Applies Weak to nearby enemies while increasing your close-range damage. It adds both safety and offensive power, and it synergizes with the Origination Arcana for higher damage potential.
8. Quick Recovery (Hermes)
Restores a portion of health after taking damage. This Boon softens chip damage and improves consistency in long fights without needing to rely on fountains.
9. Born Gain (Hera)
Instantly restores Magick during combat, allowing you to cast or use Omega moves more often. It’s a key sustain Boon for Magick-heavy builds or Hex users.
10. Flash Fry (Hestia)
Causes enemies hit by your attacks to ignite in chain reactions, dealing continuous Scorch damage to groups. It’s an efficient offensive Boon that excels against clusters of enemies.
How to build your Boon setup
Building a strong Boon setup in Hades 2 is about balance and synergy. Because each run resets your Boons, the goal isn’t to memorize one “best” build but to recognize combinations that complement your weapon, Arcana deck, and Hex.
1. Start with your weapon
Your weapon’s behavior determines what kind of Boons you should pursue.
* Fast weapons (like twin torches or daggers) benefit from Artemis’s critical damage, Zeus’s chain lightning, and Hermes’s speed boosts.
* Heavy weapons (like the axe) perform better with Aphrodite’s Weak, Ares’s Wound, or Hephaestus’s Blast to maximize big hits.
* Ranged weapons pair well with Demeter’s Freeze or Apollo’s Daze, both offering crowd control and safety from afar.
2. Stack compatible curses
Each god’s signature curse — Blitz, Freeze, Wound, Scorch, and so on — can interact to unlock Duo Boons. For example, combining Hephaestus and Demeter enables Room Temperature, where your Blast effects clear Freeze so enemies can be refrozen instantly. Building around compatible elements makes it easier to find these synergies mid-run.
3. Balance offense and defense
A common mistake is stacking only damage Boons and ignoring survivability. Divine Dash (Athena) and Weak (Aphrodite) remain top defensive picks. Pair them with at least one self-sustain effect, such as Quick Recovery (Hermes) or Moon Water (Selene’s Hex), to stay alive in longer fights.
4. Prioritize Duo Boons
When two gods appear together, always check for possible Duo Boons before making a choice. Many of the game’s most powerful builds rely on them, and they’re easier to trigger if you’ve focused on specific pairs rather than spreading across too many gods.
5. Use Keepsakes strategically
If you’re aiming for a particular build, Keepsakes help you guarantee a god’s appearance early in your run. For example:
* Equip Athena’s Owl Pendant to secure early Divine Dash.
* Use Demeter’s Frost Globe if you want to start with Freeze-related Boons.
* Swap Keepsakes between regions to attract new gods and expand your options.
Conclusion
Boons are the foundation of every successful run in Hades 2. They dictate your fighting style, influence your survivability, and define how your weapon and Hex evolve over the course of a night. Each god’s blessings introduce new mechanics — from Zeus’s lightning to Demeter’s freezing winds — and understanding how they interact is key to surviving deeper into the Underworld.
The best runs balance offense, defense, and synergy. Securing reliable core Boons such as Divine Dash, Arctic Ring, or Sea Storm early can carry you through most encounters, while carefully combining elemental curses unlocks powerful Duo Boons that multiply your damage output.
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How to Disable Mouse Acceleration in Windows 11
Mouse acceleration is a function in which a computer senses how fast a mouse is moved and multiplies its speed. This article will explore why mouse acceleration may be useful and how it can be deactivated. When mouse acceleration is activated, moving the mouse quickly will make the cursor travel further. While the feature was initially introduced to get adequate reach within a small desk space, not everyone agrees that mouse acceleration is necessary. Some computer users may prefer the standard setting in which the cursor moves as much as the user moves the mouse.
Why would I want to use mouse acceleration?
Mouse acceleration can be useful in some circumstances. Let’s take a look at why mouse acceleration might be beneficial.
1. Limited space
If there is not much room to physically move the mouse around, switching on mouse acceleration might be a good idea. As such, users can reduce the space required to move their mouse but still achieve the same reach. This avoids knocking over coffee cups or hitting objects when maneuvering the mouse on a small desk space.
2. Reduced muscle fatigue
Moving a computer mouse in short bursts can cause muscle fatigue over time. With mouse acceleration, users can reduce the amount of hand and arm movement, preventing awkward movements. This may enhance comfort for some users who experience discomfort when using a mouse.
Is mouse acceleration on by default?
For Windows computers, mouse acceleration is generally on by default. But the good news is that this function can be deactivated if it becomes bothersome. Here are some reasons why computer users may wish to disable the mouse acceleration function.
1. Inconsistency
Consistency is key for some tasks. When mouse acceleration is enabled, a small movement can make the cursor jump further than the standard setting. For example, moving the mouse 5cm (1.96 inches) may make the cursor travel 200 pixels across the screen with the standard setting and 1000 pixels with mouse acceleration. This makes it more difficult to gauge how far the mouse will move.
2. Less precision for gaming
Mouse acceleration may impact accuracy and precision, two very important ingredients for gaming. Moreover, gaming is the combination of skill and quick thinking, and trying to judge how far the mouse will move adds an additional thought process. As such, many gamers may choose to deactivate mouse acceleration for a more precise gaming experience.
How to enable mouse acceleration
Follow these instructions to enable mouse acceleration.
* Open Settings
* Select Bluetooth and devices
* Scroll down and click Mouse
* Ensure the Enhance pointer precision toggle is on
How to disable mouse acceleration
Follow these instructions to disable mouse acceleration.
* Open Settings
* Select Bluetooth and devices
* Scroll down and click Mouse
* Ensure the Enhance pointer precision toggle is off
So, is mouse acceleration necessary?
Whether or not mouse acceleration is necessary is entirely up to the user. If desk space is limited, enabling mouse acceleration may be useful to avoid knocking over items. Similarly, if using a mouse causes muscle fatigue or repetitive strain injuries, enabling mouse acceleration can reduce some of the legwork. However, gamers or users who require high amounts of precision and accuracy may consider deactivating mouse acceleration to enhance performance. If your mouse could do with an upgrade, check out Acer’s online store for a range of accessories, including mice and mouse pads.
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Acer Iconia V11 and V12: Acer's Latest Tablets
Searching for a tablet that effortlessly blends entertainment and productivity? If so, perhaps may we be so bold as to introduce two upcoming Acer tablets, the Iconia V11 and V12. First sighted at this year's smash-tastic Computex 2025, the Acer Iconia is a slim, lightweight all-metal body tablet that’s slim enough to fit in with your lifestyle, and sturdy enough to stand up to the rough n’ rowdy ways of the world.
This is an Acer tablet for all of the family. Whether you’re chilling at home streaming your favorite show, or getting your work or homework done on the move, the Iconia V11 and V12 will fit in with your unique lifestyle. Sounds appealing? Then read on to get the 411 on Acer’s latest tablets, and discover why the Iconia is set to be the iconic tablet this Fall.
What is the Iconia V?
While we basically introduced the Iconia V series in the previous paragraph, let’s not forget that the Iconia V family features the Iconia V10, V11, and V12 models. With sight variations in size and display resolutions, there’s an Iconia tablet just waiting to accompany you on life’s journey. Designed with usability and meeting all your tablet needs in mind, the Iconia series run on Android 15 OS for a familiar, user-friendly experience with up to 10 hours battery life between charges. Before we go any further, let’s take a closer look at the tech specs of the Acer Iconia V12:
* Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-Core processor
* Memory: Up to 8 GB DDR4 RAM
* Storage: Up to 256 GB eMMC, microSD™ capacity: Up to 1 TB
* Display: 11.97” (2000X1200), 16:10 aspect ratio, 90 Hz,
* Audio: Dual speakers
* Camera: Front: 5 MP, Back: 8 MP, autofocus
* Ports: USB Type-C port, microSD slot
* Battery: 8, 000 mAh, Up to 10 hours of battery life
* Wireless: Wi-Fi 6, dual-band, Bluetooth 5.2
* Dimensions, weight: 7.9 mm, 595 grams
* Accessories: Magnetic folio case, Stylus (optional)
While we’re at it, let’s take a look at the equally enviable tech-specs of the Iconia V12’s slightly smaller kin, Acer Iconia V11:
* Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-Core processor
* Memory: Up to 8 GB DDR4 RAM
* Storage: Up to 256 GB eMMC, microSD™ capacity: Up to 1 TB
* Display: 10.92” (1920X1200), 16:10 aspect ratio, 90 Hz,
* Audio: Dual speakers
* Camera: Front: 5 MP, Back: 8 MP, autofocus
* Ports: USB Type-C port, microSD slot
* Battery: 8, 000 mAh, Up to 10 hours of battery life
* Wireless: Wi-Fi 6, dual-band, Bluetooth 5.2, 4G LTE (optional)
* Dimensions, weight: 7.9 mm, 500 grams
* Accessories: Magnetic folio case, Stylus (optional)
In case you didn't have time to read through every last detail of the tech-specs, the key differences between the Iconia V11 and V12 are display size and resolution. The Iconia V11 has around an inch less screen real estate than the V12, and is also nearly 100 grams lighter, while also offering the option for 4G LTE for those tiresome times when Wi-Fi just ain’t available.
Born to perform
Now that we’ve got the numbers business of the tech specs firmly out of the way, hopefully you’re ready to ride the storm of the Iconia? In that case, let’s get a move on and see what hardware is hidden away inside the tablets. The MediaTek Helio G99 Octa-Core processor stealthily combines dual ARM Cortex-A76 cores (for high performance) with six Cortex-A55 cores (for ultimate efficiency). In plain speak this means you’ll have a silky-smooth, ultra-responsive experience while you browse, stream, and use your favorite apps to your heart’s delight.
A case for the display
As you saw in the tech-specs above, the Iconia V12 has a cheeky 2000 x 1200 resolution (2K) for supremely sharp, detailed visuals, while the Iconia V11 delivers a respectable 1920 × 1200 WUXGA resolution. The 16:10 IPS display, framed by minimalist narrow bezels means wide viewing angles and colors as bright as you’d like them, with extra vertical space for multitasking and reading documents. On top of all this, up to 90Hz refresh rate leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to rapid app scrolling, streaming, and gaming.
Designed for excellence
The Iconia’s mist green aluminum chassis screams iconic modernity, while a gray magnetic folio cover adds an extra layer of protection for your soon-to-be beloved device. This case can be effortlessly converted into a 3-level kickstand for comfy hands-free viewing, studying and creativity with the optional stylus. The stylus is a real stand out, instantly turning your Iconia V11 or V12 into a drawing, note taking creative tool to be reckoned with.
Store and more as you go
Both models have tons of built in storage: up to 256 GB, that can be easily expanded up to 1 TB with the help of a microSD card. Stay connected to whatever you wish to connect to with USB-C Power Delivery 2.0 fast charging, while the 8,000mAh battery will give you up to 10 hours of on-the-go performance.
Video call y’all
If you’re accustomed to using your tablet for video or conference calls, then the Iconia V series won’t let you down. Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 all but guarantees fast and stable internet, while 4G LTE support keeps you connected outside of the Wi-Fi world. Cameras-wise, you’re in for a treat, as the 5 MP front-facing camera ensures clear, classy visuals, while the 8 MP rear camera is your ticket to sharp, hi-res photo and video capture. If you’re prepared, then the Iconia V11 and V12 are ready to revolutionize your video calls, photos, and more.
Last iota of Iconia
We hope that you’ve enjoyed discovering the Acer Iconia V11 and V12 tablets today. These stylish, lightweight tablets are portable, practical and crying out to be carried around your world. With beyond all-day battery, stunning displays, and intuitive performance, the Iconia can be your brand new companion for both work and play. If you’re eager to get your hands on the Acer Iconia V11 or V12, then you’ll have to hold your horses until fall 2025. Until then, keep a look out and check back with us for updates.
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All Mister Mushroom Locations in Silksong
Mister Mushroom makes a mysterious return in Silksong, hidden across Pharloom as part of a secret side quest. Players can only begin the journey after uncovering a secret stone tablet in the Putrified Ducts. This guide will explain how to start the “Passing of the Age” quest, provide all seven Mister Mushroom locations, and outline how to unlock the hidden ending tied to this collectible.
How to Start the Mister Mushroom Quest
The quest begins once you find the hidden cave in the Putrified Ducts. This cave is located in the top-right corner of Pale Lake and can only be reached with the Silk Soar ability, unlocked in Act 3 within the Abyss. Inside, you’ll discover a secret stone tablet.
Reading the tablet grants the quest “Passing of the Age” and provides cryptic clues pointing to Mister Mushroom’s hiding spots. To complete the quest, you must find Mister Mushroom in seven different locations. Each time, you’ll notice small blue mushrooms on the ground, spores drifting upward, and hear faint mumbling.
When you’re near him, use the Needolin ability to draw him out of hiding.
All Mister Mushroom Locations
Below are all seven locations, their cryptic clues, and how to reach them.
1. Moss Grotto
Clue: “Under Chapel Fallen to the Monarch’s Might.”
Mister Mushroom can be found just to the right of the Ruined Chapel in Moss Grotto. Look for the small blue mushrooms and mumbling, then use Needolin to reveal him.
2. Bone Bottom
Clue: “Over Camp Collapsed to the Black Thread Plight.”
At Bone Bottom, head toward the pathway to The Marrow. You’ll need the Faydown Cloak for double jumps. First, reach the platform to the right of the entrance, then leap left to the next platform where Mister Mushroom is hiding. Use Needolin to pull him out.
3. Far Fields
Clue: “Scorched Field on Edge, Shells Black and Burned.”
In Far Fields, head southeast to the platform east of the Seamstress’s house, near the Weavenest door. Jump between platforms until you spot the mushrooms and hear Mister Mushroom’s mumbling.
4. Greymoor
Clue: “Up Towers spinning, Near the Surgeon spurned.”
Mister Mushroom is north of the left tower of Greymoor, near the Wisp Thicket entrance. Use Clawline and Cling Grip to scale platforms and walls. After reaching the top, drop down to find his hiding spot.
5. The Slab
Clue: “Cage of one who raged against the Silken Lie.”
Head to the cave where you fought the First Sinner. From the Bellway fast travel point, move east past the bench. Look for mushrooms on the ground, then use Needolin to reveal Mister Mushroom.
6. Mount Fay
Clue: “Fell Heart of Frost, Who Soars on High.”
At the summit of Mount Fay, climb using Faydown Cloak and Cling Grip. You’ll find Mister Mushroom waiting at the peak, gazing toward a bird-like creature.
7. The Cradle
Clue: “That the age may pass, this shroom its witness.”
The seventh and final Mister Mushroom location is hidden at the peak of The Cradle, the same area where you previously fought Grandmother Silk. This is one of the most challenging sequences in the game, requiring almost every traversal ability you’ve unlocked.
Start by heading to the corridor to the right of Cogwork Core, where you’ll find a slightly hidden passageway in the ceiling. From here, you’ll need to rely heavily on Silk Soar to make progress. As you ascend through this section, you’ll eventually reach the Cradle itself.
At this point, bind the severed arm of Grandmother Silk to unlock the Pale Nails skill, which is generally considered the final Silk ability in the game. Look for a narrow opening along the right-hand side, then use Silk Soar to super-jump upward and continue your climb.
Beyond this, the platforming grows more demanding, with frequent use of double jumps, pogo attacks, and grappling to advance through tight corridors and vertical shafts. Eventually, you’ll reach an unmapped zone where Mister Mushroom waits on a lonely ledge. Speak to him, and he will zoom away.
You can try to follow him toward the surface, but he won’t appear there. Instead, continue all the way to the right until you arrive at the Nameless Town. Play your Needolin at the ruined house on the far-right edge to receive the Surface Memento, a special item you can place in your personal home in Bellhart.
Mister Mushroom Quest Rewards and Secret Ending
After you uncover all seven Mister Mushroom locations, he will bid farewell and fly away from Pharloom. This completes the “Passing of the Age” quest.
To fully unlock the hidden ending, you must then defeat Lost Lace in the Abyss. Doing so will trigger a special cutscene and grant the achievement “Passing of the Age.”
Conclusion
The Mister Mushroom side quest in Hollow Knight: Silksong is one of the game’s most intricate collectibles, tying exploration, traversal abilities, and cryptic clues together. Completing all seven encounters not only rewards you with an achievement but also reveals a hidden ending that connects to the broader lore of Pharloom.
If you’re aiming for 100% completion or simply enjoy unraveling secrets, make sure you take the time to track down every location of Mister Mushroom.
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Top Contenders for GOTY 2025
The Game Awards is the gaming industry's biggest annual celebration. Founded in 2014 by journalist and producer Geoff Keighley, it began as a successor to the Spike Video Game Awards and has since grown into a global event. Each year, the show honors the top achievements in video games while also serving as a platform for major reveals and announcements.
The 2025 ceremony will take place on December 11, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, where it has been held since 2023. With millions of viewers expected to tune in worldwide, the show will once again combine live performances, developer speeches, surprise trailers, and celebrity appearances.
Across more than 30 categories, the awards highlight excellence in areas such as direction, performance, accessibility, esports, and storytelling. The most anticipated category each year is Game of the Year (GOTY), which stands as the highest recognition in the industry.
What is Game of the Year?
The Game of the Year award goes to the title that delivers the most outstanding experience across gameplay, narrative, visual design, audio, and emotional impact. It represents not just technical excellence but also cultural relevance and artistic ambition. Winning GOTY can elevate a game into the canon of all-time greats and shape how a year is remembered in gaming history.
While the official nominees will not be announced until late November, that has not stopped fans and critics from speculating. 2025 has already delivered several strong contenders across a variety of genres, including RPGs, immersive sims, narrative adventures, and breakout indie hits.
The following list highlights our top predictions for which titles are most likely to be nominated for Game of the Year at this year’s ceremony. These picks are based on critical reception, innovation, and overall impact so far. With GTA 6 officially postponed to 2026, the 2025 GOTY race is shaping up to be one of the closest in recent memory. In the absence of a clear dominant favorite, several indie studios have stepped up with standout releases. Games like Hollow Knight: Silksong, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Hades 2 have all made strong cases for themselves, raising the bar across gameplay, art direction, and narrative design.
At the same time, big-budget publishers are not backing down. Triple-A studios have brought their own heavy hitters to the table this year, including Ghost of Yōtei, Donkey Kong Bananza, Split Fiction, and Death Stranding 2. With such a strong and varied field, the competition for Game of the Year has never felt more unpredictable.
The top contenders for Game of the Year in 2025
1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (released April 24, 2025) is not only my personal favorite of the year but also the game I believe will win GOTY 2025. Developed by Sandfall Interactive, a new French studio formed by former Ubisoft developers, it represents a shift from the formulaic, monetization-driven projects their old employer is known for. Instead of chasing profit-first design, Sandfall embraced artistic freedom, creating a role-playing experience that feels both distinctly French and universally powerful.
The world of Lumière sets the tone with its Belle Époque elegance and tragic theatre-like atmosphere. Each year, the godlike Paintress marks a number on her tower, dictating the age at which people vanish from existence. You lead the doomed 33rd expedition to end this curse. The story channels classic tragedy while also offering small, heartfelt moments of levity that humanize the cast. Excellent performances and naturalistic dialogue ensure the heavy themes of grief, mortality, and sacrifice resonate.
Combat is where Clair Obscur shines brightest. Its stylish turn-based battles infuse real-time inputs for dodges, parries, and spell boosts, making every encounter feel tense and rhythmic, almost like a dance. Each party member has unique mechanics, and the Picto system allows deep customization that rewards experimentation. Boss fights are especially unforgettable, demanding precision and improvisation while backed by a sweeping score that blends opera, symphonic rock, and Parisian flair.
Even with some rough edges in exploration and menus, the overall package is breathtaking. The art direction, evocative soundtrack, and smartly scoped narrative recall the clarity of vision often missing from today’s bloated AAA releases. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a triumph of creative independence, proving that when developers are free to build with passion, the result can rival and even surpass the giants of the industry.
2. Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza, released on July 17, 2025, is Nintendo’s boldest platformer in years and the first true 3D showpiece for the Switch 2. Built by the same team that crafted Super Mario Odyssey, this game reinvents DK as the star of his own console-defining adventure. The result is a masterpiece of platform design, brimming with charm, technical ambition, and endless ideas.
At its core, Bananza revolves around a brilliant concept: fully destructible environments. Every wall, floor, and boulder can be smashed, ripped, or hurled by DK, and that simple mechanic fuels the game’s creativity. Levels, called “layers,” are sprawling playgrounds where breaking terrain is both satisfying and strategic. Sometimes you’re clearing a path to uncover secrets, other times you’re chaining combos by ripping up a stone, tossing it at an enemy, and vaulting off it to reach a hidden platform. The possibilities feel limitless, and Nintendo’s polish ensures it never grows old.
Alongside DK is Pauline, whose singing ability helps reveal collectibles and marks objectives. Their story is lighthearted, with DK seeking more bananas and Pauline searching for a way home, but the adventure grows into something grander as they descend toward the mysterious Planet Core. The journey is consistently inventive, introducing fresh twists like elemental puzzles and wild “Bananza transformations” that grant DK temporary powers such as gliding, super speed, or pulverizing indestructible terrain.
Visually, the game sparkles with Nintendo’s signature artistry, while its physics-driven destruction adds a weight and dynamism rarely seen in the genre. The soundtrack mixes reimagined Donkey Kong Country classics with new tracks that perfectly match the chaos of DK’s rampages.
With over 20 hours of story content and near-endless secrets to discover, Donkey Kong Bananza is more than a return for one of Nintendo’s oldest icons. It is a groundbreaking platformer that cements DK as a headliner and a top contender for GOTY 2025.
3. Split Fiction
Hazelight Studios, the team behind It Takes Two (GOTY 2021), has done it again with Split Fiction. Released on March 6, 2025, the game pushes the boundaries of cooperative play while doubling as a love letter to storytelling and human connection.
At its heart, Split Fiction follows Mio and Zoe, two aspiring writers trapped inside a simulation that fuses their wildly different imaginations. Over the course of the adventure, they navigate more than 20 distinct worlds that blend fantasy and sci-fi, each filled with unique mechanics and playful nods to gaming history. One moment you might be wall-running through a cyberpunk city wielding gravity blades, the next you’re skating through a Tony Hawk-inspired arena or solving puzzles in a Metroid-like dungeon. Nearly every mechanic introduced could serve as the foundation of its own game, yet here they are all packed into one seamless journey.
As in It Takes Two, the cooperative focus is essential. Progress relies on constant collaboration, whether you are coordinating weapon abilities, executing precision platforming, or solving puzzles that require perfect timing. The result is a game that constantly surprises while never losing sight of its emotional core.
What makes Split Fiction truly remarkable is how its story complements its gameplay. Mio and Zoe begin as polar opposites—the grumpy realist and the cheerful dreamer—but gradually form a bond that feels authentic and moving. Their relationship, explored through laughter, conflict, and heartfelt dialogue, gives weight to every fantastical detour. The game also delivers sharp commentary on creativity in an age of generative AI, with its villain Rader serving as a cautionary caricature of idea theft.
Funny, inventive, and deeply human, Split Fiction stands as both a brilliant co-op experience and one of the most original contenders for Game of the Year 2025.
4. Hollow Knight: Silksong
Hollow Knight: Silksong finally emerged on September 4, 2025, after seven years of speculation and mounting hype. The long-awaited sequel from Team Cherry builds on its predecessor’s Metroidvania foundation while dramatically raising the stakes. Set in the kingdom of Pharloom, the game inverts the original’s descent into Hallownest. Hornet, captured at the start, must climb upward through a vast series of interconnected biomes toward the Citadel, unraveling a mystery tied to her own silk.
Hornet’s moveset reshapes how exploration and combat unfold. She can vault diagonally with a dive attack, chain parries into ripostes, float mid-air with her cloak, and later grapple across arenas with needle hooks. These tools make her faster and more vertical than the Knight, but the added mobility is balanced by higher difficulty. Even common enemies deal two masks of damage, healing restores three masks at once but can be interrupted, and bosses have expanded health pools. With over forty major encounters spread across the game, Silksong consistently demands precision.
Progression is handled through multiple layered systems. Crests define Hornet’s combat style and act as sockets for Tools, which provide offensive, defensive, or utility effects. Picto perks stack into Lumina bonuses after extended use, letting players refine loadouts beyond simple skill trees. Two currencies further shape the journey: Rosaries for shops and services, and Shell Shards to repair or recharge Tools. Exploration is dense, with side quests called Wishes offering additional challenges ranging from delivery runs to high-level boss hunts.
Pharloom’s design emphasizes verticality, with towering zones like the Sands of Karak, the Choral Chambers, and the Bone Bottom hub town. Its art direction surpasses even the original, and Christopher Larkin’s sweeping score reinforces the emotional highs of exploration and combat alike. While critics have noted frustration with lengthy boss runbacks and resource scarcity, the overall consensus is that Silksong elevates the Metroidvania genre through sheer ambition and craftsmanship.
Despite its brilliance, Silksong may struggle to capture GOTY 2025 due to its punishing difficulty and niche appeal. However, it is almost certain to be the frontrunner for Best Indie Game. In what is shaping up to be a two-way race with Hades 2, Silksong’s enormous hype and cultural footprint may be enough to secure the win.
5. Hades 2
Supergiant Games followed up its 2020 masterpiece with Hades 2, officially released on September 25, 2025, after an early access period that began in May 2024. The result is a roguelite that refines nearly every aspect of the original while introducing bold new systems, ensuring it stands as one of the year’s most celebrated titles.
This time, players control Melinoë, daughter of Hades and Persephone, on a mission to defeat Chronos, the Titan of Time. Her witchcraft-infused combat emphasizes traps, ranged control, and mana management, setting her apart from Zagreus’ straightforward brawling. Weapons like twirling twin torches or a colossal axe radically change each run, while elemental affinity systems and Selene’s powerful Hex abilities allow for wildly different builds.
Progression feels richer without excess. Permanent upgrades flow from Hecate’s cauldron, Chaos offers high-risk challenges, and animal familiars and farming add gentle diversions. The biggest leap is structural: after unlocking the option, players can choose between two paths on each attempt, descending into Tartarus or ascending Olympus. Each contains four regions with unique bosses and branching layouts, doubling variety and keeping the roguelite loop endlessly fresh.
Supergiant’s artistry is once again unmistakable. Characters like Nemesis and Hecate are written with nuance and humor, while the Olympians brim with new layers. Darren Korb’s soundtrack, supported by Ashley Barrett’s vocals, pushes beyond the original with soaring rock ballads, haunting mythic chants, and playful tracks like the Scylla and the Sirens boss fight anthem.
Hades 2 is a masterclass in sequel design: familiar enough to feel like home, yet brimming with new ideas that make each run exciting. While Silksong may narrowly claim Indie Game of the Year thanks to its towering hype, Hades 2 is every bit its equal in craft, and a clear frontrunner for multiple awards at The Game Awards 2025.
6. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
Released on February 4, 2025, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a rare historical RPG that puts story, place, and consequence first. Warhorse returns to 1400 Bohemia with Henry’s continuing saga, and the result is a world that feels lived in rather than staged. The main plot moves with real momentum, yet the side content is equally memorable. One minute you are unmasking a killer in Kuttenberg, the next you are spelunking through a “haunted” mine or engineering a cheeky brothel subplot. A full run easily lands between 80 and 120 hours.
Progression is use based and immediately readable. Fight, sneak, craft, and converse, and the related skills rise. Quests often support multiple solutions with failure states that stick, so a sloppy burglary or a hot-headed duel can change how towns react. The crime system is fully simulated, with theft, bribery, and bounties that make you plan your nights as carefully as your days. Immersion systems ask you to actually smith, mend gear, or lug sacks across a yard. That commitment to authenticity sells the fantasy of being a medieval commoner who is clawing his way up, even if a few chores drift into busywork.
Combat remains the weak link. Master strikes and simple pressure can outperform the intended combo game, and hitboxes still wobble. The saving grace is that the RPG pillars are strong. Voice acting carries long dialogue scenes, the orchestral score lands big emotional beats, and performance on capable hardware is solid, with only occasional quest hiccups that a reload fixes.
Post-launch support has been busy. Brushes With Death delivers a roughly 12-hour story centered on the eccentric painter Voyta and adds shield painting for extra flavor. Legacy of the Forge lets you restore Henry’s family forge, join the blacksmiths’ guild, and build out a highly customizable home tied to prestige and commissions. Mysteria Ecclesiae is planned to open the Sedletz Monastery later this year with medicine and alchemy themes. DLC does not change awards eligibility in a strict sense, yet it does keep the conversation going.
Personal note. This game sent me down a Czech history rabbit hole and even got me to visit the country. The countryside, towns, and material culture feel studied and loved, and the writing makes that scholarship sing.
Will it win GOTY in a stacked 2025. Probably not. As a pure role-playing experience, though, it is exceptional and belongs on any shortlist for Best RPG of the year.
7. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
From the legendary Hideo Kojima, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (released June 26, 2025) takes the experimental framework of the original and molds it into something far more confident, cinematic, and playable. Norman Reedus returns as Sam Porter Bridges, this time tasked with connecting Australia to the Chiral Network. It is a 35-hour trek across deserts, rivers, and quake-ridden terrain where Mother Nature herself seems to push back against human ambition. As with the first game, success still depends on preparation: ladders, ropes, and blood grenades are just as essential as firearms, but the flow is sharper and the storytelling more focused.
Kojima’s love of film saturates the experience, from Interstellar style landscapes to Mad Max inspired desert chaos with George Miller even appearing in-game. Yet this is not indulgence for its own sake. The cinematic lens informs an action forward design that makes the moment to moment play far more dynamic than the original. Stealth and combat have been overhauled. Sam now commands drones, tranquilizer rifles, off-roaders, and a wide arsenal that lets you approach encounters creatively. Battles can spiral into chaos or resolve with surgical precision, both equally satisfying. Bosses are unmissable highlights: towering monstrosities that channel the eccentric, operatic side of Kojima’s design philosophy.
Progression has also been expanded. A plug-in perk system lets you shape Sam’s playstyle, from stealthy tracker to explosive powerhouse, echoing Nier Automata’s chip customizations. Gadgets and weapons arrive at a steady rhythm, including the surreal: coffin hoverboards, blood boomerangs, and missile firing mechanical dogs. This creativity turns what could have been a slog into a sandbox of strange delights. Online features return as well, letting other players’ constructions ease your journey in a shared world tapestry of mutual aid.
Bizarre, haunting, and occasionally hilarious, with platypus **** and talking puppets making appearances, Death Stranding 2 proves Kojima remains unmatched in marrying eccentricity with blockbuster design. It might not convert those who bounced off the original, but for everyone else, it is one of 2025’s most unforgettable adventures.
8. Ghost of Yotei
Ghost of Yotei (released September 25, 2025) builds on the foundation of Ghost of Tsushima while carving out its own identity through its new protagonist, Atsu. Unlike Jin Sakai, Atsu is no samurai. She is a wandering mercenary whose family was massacred by the Yotei Six, a ruthless gang now ruling Japan’s northern island of Ezo. Consumed by revenge, she adopts the mantle of the onryo, a vengeful spirit from Japanese folklore, becoming a feared symbol of retribution.
The setting is as much a character as Atsu herself. Ezo, modern-day Hokkaido, is rendered with breathtaking contrast: lush cherry blossoms in the south, icy plains in the north, and duels staged against waterfalls, ancient forests, and snowfields drenched in blood. Exploration feels organic thanks to the returning Guiding Wind, now paired with a spyglass system that encourages discovery rather than reliance on UI markers.
Atsu’s quest against the Yotei Six unfolds with cinematic flair reminiscent of Lady Snowblood and classic samurai cinema. Each target has distinct methods, from the Oni’s scorched-earth cruelty to the Kitsune’s shinobi assassinations, creating a mix of duels, infiltration, and puzzle-driven missions. Side activities tie closely to Atsu’s past: painting sumi-e with her father’s lessons, playing the shamisen passed down from her mother, and reliving childhood memories at family sites. These moments make her vengeance deeply personal.
Combat has been refined to reflect Atsu’s pragmatism. Instead of rigid stances, she masters five distinct weapons, each with situational strengths, and augments them with ranged options like rifles and pistols. Stealth is faster and more brutal, with kusarigama assassinations standing out. While camera quirks occasionally frustrate, the overall system delivers a thrilling blend of precision and brutality.
Ghost of Yotei may share DNA with Tsushima, but Atsu’s story of loss, artistry, and revenge ensures it stands tall as one of 2025’s defining action epics.
Conclusion
2025 has already delivered an incredible lineup of games, from ambitious blockbusters like Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Ghost of Yotei, to indie darlings like Hollow Knight: Silksong and Hades 2. The variety is staggering, with studios large and small pushing the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and artistry.
As strong as 2025 has already been for gaming, the year isn’t finished yet. Several heavy hitters are still on the horizon, and they could reshape the conversation around Game of the Year once they land. Upcoming titles include:
* October 9, 2025 — Little Nightmares 3
* October 10, 2025 — Battlefield 6
* October 21, 2025 — Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2
* October 29, 2025 — The Outer Worlds 2
* December 4, 2025 — Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Each of these games carries the potential to surprise and even blow away the competition. And if any of them — or even a dark horse release — prove themselves worthy, I’ll update this list to give them a deserved place among the year’s best. For now, 2025 is already shaping up to be one of the most stacked years in recent memory, and the best may still be yet to come.
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