If you’re playing Hades 2 and came across the term S-Scales (also known as Serpent Scales), you’re probably wondering how to find them and what they’re for. This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from unlocking the tools you need, to where to harvest, to how to use them — in clear, readable language.
S-Scales are a reagent introduced in the Warsong Update of Hades 2. They appear as blue-green, scaly outcroppings or deposits in the new Summit region. You must use the Crescent Pick to harvest them. These scales are relatively rare and tied to late-game content, so they may not matter until you’ve unlocked more tools and regions.
Although their uses are limited currently, they are used in incantations (spells or upgrades) that deal with shedding or surface mechanics. One known incantation that uses Serpent Scales is “Rage of the Elements”, which reactivates certain Olympus statues to help you in combat.
Step 1: Unlock the Crescent Pick
Before you can even think about harvesting S-Scales, you must unlock and equip the Crescent Pick. This happens because many reagents in Hades 2 require a gathering tool to mine or harvest them. The Crescent Pick lets you mine ore deposits and outcroppings, including those bearing Serpent Scales.
- The pick is unlocked via progression and crafting/upgrading via the cauldron or incantations.
- Once unlocked, equip it before entering runs so you can mine as you explore.
Without the Crescent Pick, S-Scales are completely inaccessible.
Step 2: Reach the Summit Region
Serpent Scales are only found in the Summit, which is a region unlocked in the Warsong Update. You cannot find them in earlier zones like Erebus, Oceanus, or Tartarus.
- Progress through the main path and side quests until the Summit opens.
- Be ready for tougher enemies and larger zones — you’ll want better gear and incantations before heading here.
Only once you have access to Summit can you hope to find S-Scales.
Step 3: Look for Outcroppings and Mine
Once you’re in the Summit and have your Crescent Pick, search for the scaly stone outcroppings — they are scattered across the terrain. Use your pick on these to gather S-Scales.
Here are helpful tips for this:
- Bring a Familiar that boosts gathering — the raven Raki is especially helpful. His presence increases the chance that outcroppings (like those with S-Scales) will spawn.
- Travel carefully — these areas may be guarded or hard to reach.
- Combine your pick usage with Reagent Sensing incantation (if unlocked) to reveal nearby resource nodes, saving time.
Because S-Scales are rare, you may need multiple runs through the Summit to gather enough.
Uses of S-Scales
Even though they are new, the uses for Serpent Scales are limited (for now). Here’s what you can do with them:
- Use them in incantations that require “shedding” or surface-themed reagents.
- One confirmed incantation is Rage of the Elements, which lets you activate Olympus statues that aid you during fights.
- Future updates may expand their utility (such as crafting, upgrades, or new powers), so it’s wise to collect extra.
Because the game is still evolving, S-Scales might see more uses in the full release.
Tips & Tricks to Get More S-Scales Efficiently
To make your efforts more fruitful, follow these tips:
- Bring Raki the Familiar: Having him boosts outcropping frequency. If you haven’t recruited Raki, you can find him in Fountain Rooms in Erebus and recruit him using Witch’s Delight treat.
- Use Reagent Sensing: This incantation highlights resource deposits on your map, helping you spot S-Scales more easily.
- Explore thoroughly: Don’t rush — scour edges, ledges, hidden paths, and corners of the Summit for outcroppings.
- Upgrade tools and your familiars: Any bonuses to gathering, speed, or sensing will help you collect more in fewer runs.
- Save extra scales: Since future patches may add new uses, retaining a stash is wise.
