Embarking on runs in Hades 2 presents players with a choice between descending into Erebus or facing the sealed stairs leading upwards. These upward paths are initially blocked by mysterious wards, preventing immediate progression. For gamers seeking to bypass these obstacles and ascend the stairs in Hades 2, this guide offers the solutions they need.

Unlocking Access to the Stairs

To ascend the stairs, players must successfully cast the Permeation of Witching-Wards incantation at the Cauldron. Persistence in battling Chronos and diligently performing incantations within Hades 2 is key to unlocking this ability effortlessly. The following steps are believed to trigger the appearance of the incantation at the Cauldron:

Players will be required to acquire a special Hades 2 reagent known as Shadow, crafted using the Shadow Extraction recipe available in the Cauldron's Alchemy tab. If players haven't yet obtained this recipe, continuous runs, incantations, and Fated List completions are recommended to progress.

Exploring beyond the sealed stairs reveals the vast Surface, teeming with distinct environments, formidable bosses, Hades 2 characters, and valuable materials. Initial visits to the Surface may be challenging due to a draining curse on players' Life. However, countering this curse is possible by casting the Unraveling a Fateful Bond incantation found in the Cauldron upon returning to the Crossroads.

Several incantations on the Surface aid players in their traversal, offering healing opportunities and access to beneficial items. This meta-progression mechanic echoes the assistance provided by incantations in clearing the regions beneath the Surface, enhancing gameplay experiences for dedicated Hades 2 enthusiasts.