Age of Mythology
Age of Mythology

The Hydra (Mission 20 - The Serpent's Lair) — Age of Mythology Walkthrough

Age of Mythology guide: Defeat the Hydra in Mission 20. Learn its multi-head mechanic and combat its growing attack power to clear The Serpent's Lair.

·Multi-source verified (54/54)

The Hydra is a massive Greek Myth Unit, often encountered as a boss. Its unique ability to grow more heads as it takes damage makes it a challenging foe, as each head increases its attack power.

The Hydra (Mission 20 - The Serpent's Lair) - Age of Mythology screenshot
The Hydra (Mission 20 - The Serpent's Lair)

Abilities:

  • Multiple Heads: Starts with a few heads, grows more as it takes damage (up to 5). Each head increases its attack.
  • Powerful Melee Attack: Deals high damage to units and buildings.
  • High Health: Very durable.

Weaknesses:

  • Vulnerable to Heroes: Arkantos and other heroes deal bonus damage.
  • Focus Fire: Concentrated damage can prevent it from growing too many heads.

Strategy:

The key to defeating the Hydra is to deal burst damage and focus fire. Engage it with Arkantos and any other hero units you have. Use your strongest human military units (e.g., Murmillos, Hoplites, Jarls) to surround and attack it. If you have any God Powers that deal significant burst damage, like 'Bolt' or 'Meteor', use them early to reduce its health quickly. The goal is to defeat it before it can grow too many heads and become overwhelmingly powerful. If you have ranged units, keep them attacking from a distance. Do not let the fight drag on, as a Hydra with five heads can quickly wipe out your army. Retreat damaged units and bring in reinforcements if necessary, but a swift, decisive assault is usually the best approach.