Hades II: which version is most worth it? PS5, Switch 2, PC and more — full comparison

Detailed comparison of Hades II performance, visuals, and loading across PS5, Xbox, Switch 2, Switch, and PC. Which version is your choice?

Quick summary

Hades II from Supergiant Games has arrived on major platforms with continuous updates during early access and, finally, official releases for PS5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, Switch, and PC. The experience varies by platform, especially in terms of performance, resolution, and loading times.

Launch and availability

The game began in early access on PC in May 2024. In October 2024, it gained support for M1-chip macOS and received its first major update. February and June 2025 brought new major updates, while September 2025 marked the end of early access and the launch for PC, Switch 2, and Switch. In April 2026, it arrived on PS5 and Xbox Series, becoming part of the Xbox Game Pass. Today, Hades II is available on PS5, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam, Epic, Xbox PC).

Differences between platforms

• Switch and Switch 2: cross-save available between both, with docked/handheld mode and smooth transition between them. The Switch 2 Edition can be upgraded for free to the Switch 2 version, and there is a physical edition containing both versions on the same cartridge.
• Steam: ultrawide support, perfect performance on Steam Deck and handheld PCs, with Steam achievements and cross-save with Switch versions.
• PS5: support for trophies and activity cards, haptic feedback, controller lighting, and Remote Play.
• Xbox: Play Anywhere feature, Quick Resume, and inclusion in Xbox Game Pass, with saves synchronized between Xbox and PC.

Visuals, performance, and graphic quality

Visually, the game combines 2D with 3D elements, with the most noticeable differences being in resolution across platforms. The Switch 2 appears slightly less smooth than the PC version running at 1440p on the Steam Deck; the Switch 1 has lower resolution and fewer particles. In terms of performance, the Switch 2 reaches 120fps in docked mode and 60fps in handheld mode, while the Switch 1 runs at 60fps in both modes, without a 100% constant lock. On PS5/Xbox Series X, the game targets 120fps with no graphics mode options. The team stated that the PS5 version is already at the maximum quality level, with no additional improvements for the PS5 Pro. On PC, there is support for uncapped frame rates and ultrawide resolutions, with a great experience on the Steam Deck and handheld devices.

Loading times

Below are the average startup times to the main menu and save loading, keeping in mind that Cross-Save on Switch and Switch 2 may slightly impact times in some cases:

• PS5 Pro: Dashboard to title 7–8s; load a run/save 3–4s
• Xbox Series X: 14–15s; load a run/save 4–5s
• PS5: 8–9s; 3–4s
• Switch 2: 10s; 4–5s
• Switch: 29s; 8–9s
• Steam Deck: 20–22s; 3–4s
• ROG Ally (Steam): 18–20s; 3–4s
• ROG Ally (Xbox App): 51–55s; 6–7s

As you can see, the PS5 versions, and especially the PS5 Pro, load faster initially. Loading a save is usually very fast on PlayStation and Switch 2 platforms; the Xbox PC App version tends to take longer. These numbers vary depending on installation and storage media.

Which version is best?

For those with a Steam Deck OLED, the best portable experience is to stick with the Deck OLED, due to the high-quality screen and maintaining 90fps. If you use the Steam Deck LCD, the Switch 2 offers a larger screen with the same frame rate. The ROG Ally delivers 120fps in portable mode, but consumes more battery and has a longer initial load time than the Switch 2.

For TV gaming, PS5 and Xbox Series X provide an excellent experience. There is no issue with the PlayStation version upgrade, but the Xbox offers the Play Anywhere benefit, even with a longer initial load in the PC App version. If you play on multiple platforms, it is recommended to stick with Steam and Switch 2 for progress synchronization. And it is likely that the trophy meta on PS5 will eventually require extra time to convert achievements between platforms.

Until cross-save arrives on PS5 and Xbox, the Steam and Switch 2 versions are the best options for those who use more than one platform. That is the way I will continue playing Hades II, with the hope of having my main save on all platforms in the future.

Which version to buy today?

Below is a summary of pros and cons for each version to help in your decision:

• Switch 1/ Switch 2: the Switch 2 Edition is the only way to get the game on a cartridge with both versions; the Switch 2 physical edition is a differentiator. For those who value hybrid portability and cross-save, it is a good choice. The Switch 1 is less recommended if you own other platforms, but the Switch 2 Edition is excellent and still considered one of the best options in the system.
• Steam: the best option for those who prioritize maximum performance with uncapped framerate and ultrawide support, especially on the Steam Deck OLED. Ideal for those who want to play at home on a PC and on devices with cross-save for Switch.
• Xbox: Play Anywhere, Quick Resume, and Game Pass are strong attractions for those who use portable PCs or consoles; however, initial loading can be slower on the PC App version.
• PS5: great for TV gaming with trophies, DualSense support, and additional features; it also offers fast loading, being the best choice for those who prioritize startup speed and a living room experience.

Which version would you choose today? Share in the comments which platform you use and what weighs most in your decision. Does cross-save really change your experience between platforms?

Veja mais artigos como Hades II: which version is most worth it? PS5, Switch 2, PC and more — full comparison na categoria News.