What Does the Ending of God of War Mean?
The 2018 game God of War, developed by Sony Santa Monica Studio, has left many players wondering about the meaning of its ending. The game’s conclusion has sparked a lot of debate and speculation, leaving fans eager to unravel the secrets and symbolism behind it. In this article, we’ll delve into the ending and try to decipher its significance.
The Ending: A Brief Recap
For those who may have missed it, the game’s ending revolves around Kratos, the protagonist, and his son Atreus, who embark on a journey to spread their wife/mother’s ashes from the highest peak in the realms. Along the way, they face various challenges, including encounters with the god Baldur and the giant Hymir. The duo’s quest ultimately leads them to the top of the World Tree, where they have a heart-to-heart conversation about their motivations and the future.
The Four Realms and the Afterlife
One of the most significant aspects of the game’s ending is the concept of the four realms: Midgard, Jotunheim, Svartalfheim, and Alfheim. These realms, derived from Norse mythology, represent the different planes of existence. The afterlife, or Hel, is also a crucial part of the game’s world, serving as a realm for the dead. The ending suggests that Kratos and Atreus have reached the edge of the four realms, symbolizing their journey toward the afterlife.
The Symbolism of the World Tree
The World Tree, Yggdrasil, is a central element in Norse mythology. In the game, it serves as the literal and metaphorical axis of the worlds. The tree’s branches connect the realms, and its roots anchor the worlds. The ending shows Kratos and Atreus at the top of the tree, which can be interpreted as a symbol of their journey toward self-discovery and understanding. The World Tree also represents the connection between life and death, as well as the unity of the realms.
The Relationship Between Kratos and Atreus
The ending highlights the blossoming relationship between Kratos and Atreus. Their bond, built throughout the game, is put to the test as they face the challenges of the journey. The conversation at the top of the World Tree marks a turning point in their relationship, as they begin to understand each other better. This newfound understanding allows them to move forward, symbolizing their growth and development as characters.
The Future of the God of War Franchise
The ending of God of War sets the stage for the future of the franchise. The game’s conclusion implies that Kratos and Atreus will continue their journey, exploring the realms and dealing with the consequences of their actions. The sequel, God of War Ragnarök, will likely pick up where the original left off, delving deeper into the lore and mythology of the game.
Interpretations and Theories
Many fans have offered their own interpretations of the ending, and some have even developed complex theories. Some believe that the ending marks the beginning of a new era for Kratos and Atreus, while others see it as a commentary on the nature of parenthood and the afterlife.
Here are some of the most popular theories and interpretations:
• The afterlife: Some fans believe that Kratos and Atreus have reached the afterlife, and their journey is a metaphor for the cycle of life and death.
• The journey of self-discovery: Others see the ending as a symbol of Kratos and Atreus’s journey toward self-discovery, as they learn to understand and appreciate each other.
• The connection between Kratos and Atreus: The bond between Kratos and Atreus is a central theme in the game, and the ending highlights their relationship as they face the challenges of the journey.
• The mythology of the game: The game’s ending draws heavily from Norse mythology, and some fans believe that the conclusion is a commentary on the nature of the world and the afterlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the ending of God of War:
Q: What does the ending mean for Kratos and Atreus?
A: The ending implies that Kratos and Atreus will continue their journey, exploring the realms and dealing with the consequences of their actions.
Q: What is the significance of the World Tree?
A: The World Tree, Yggdrasil, is a central element in Norse mythology, symbolizing the connection between life and death, as well as the unity of the realms.
Q: How does the ending relate to the Norse mythology?
A: The game’s ending draws heavily from Norse mythology, with references to the four realms, the World Tree, and the afterlife.
Q: What is the meaning of the final conversation between Kratos and Atreus?
A: The conversation marks a turning point in their relationship, as they begin to understand each other better and move forward.
Q: Will there be a sequel?
A: Yes, the sequel, God of War Ragnarök, is set to release in the near future and will likely pick up where the original left off.
Q: What is the significance of the afterlife in the game?
A: The afterlife, or Hel, is a crucial part of the game’s world, serving as a realm for the dead.
Q: How does the ending relate to the game’s themes?
A: The ending highlights the themes of the game, including the journey of self-discovery, the connection between Kratos and Atreus, and the symbolism of the World Tree.
Q: What is the meaning of the ending’s symbolism?
A: The ending’s symbolism is open to interpretation, with many fans offering their own theories and analyses.
Conclusion
The ending of God of War is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant conclusion to the game’s story. The game’s final moments have sparked a lot of debate and speculation, leaving fans eager to unravel the secrets and symbolism behind it. As we move forward, it’s clear that Kratos and Atreus will continue their journey, exploring the realms and dealing with the consequences of their actions. The future of the God of War franchise is bright, and fans can’t wait to see what’s in store.