Is the Ragnarok DLC Good? A Comprehensive Review and FAQ
Yes, the Ragnarok DLC is generally considered a very good expansion for God of War (2018). It builds upon the original game’s strengths with a compelling narrative, stunning visuals, engaging combat, and a vast world to explore. While some criticisms exist regarding pacing and certain narrative choices, the overall experience is highly polished and delivers a satisfying conclusion to Kratos and Atreus’ Norse saga.
Delving Deep into Midgard and Beyond: A Ragnarok Review
God of War Ragnarok had enormous expectations to meet. Following the critically acclaimed 2018 reboot, fans eagerly awaited the next chapter in Kratos and Atreus’ journey. Did it live up to the hype? For the most part, absolutely. Ragnarok expands upon the established gameplay loop, offering a richer, more nuanced experience.
The Story: An Epic Conclusion
At the heart of Ragnarok is its narrative, which picks up a few years after the events of the previous game. The threat of Ragnarok looms large, with Fimbulwinter gripping the Nine Realms. Kratos and Atreus find themselves caught between gods and monsters, prophecies and personal desires.
The story excels in its character development. Kratos continues his journey of growth, grappling with his past and learning to trust those around him. Atreus, now older and more independent, seeks his own path, often clashing with his father’s protective nature. The supporting cast, including Freya, Mimir, and new additions like Thor and Angrboda, are all exceptionally well-written and contribute significantly to the narrative’s depth.
The main questline is engaging, filled with memorable moments and impactful choices. The pacing, however, can feel uneven at times. Certain sections feel rushed, while others drag on longer than necessary. Some players also found the focus on certain side characters detracted from the core Kratos and Atreus dynamic, although those characters often enriched the overall narrative.
Gameplay: Refined and Expanded
Ragnarok retains the satisfying combat system of its predecessor but introduces several refinements. Kratos’ arsenal remains familiar, with the Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos being central to his fighting style. However, new runic attacks, weapon upgrades, and shield variations offer greater customization and tactical options.
The enemy variety is also significantly increased. You’ll face a wide range of creatures from Norse mythology, each requiring different strategies to defeat. The boss battles are particularly memorable, offering challenging and visually stunning encounters.
Exploration is another key aspect of Ragnarok. The Nine Realms are beautifully realized, each with its own distinct environments and secrets to uncover. Side quests offer engaging storylines and valuable rewards, encouraging players to fully explore each realm. Traversal has been improved, with new abilities allowing for greater verticality and faster movement.
Visuals and Audio: A Masterpiece of Presentation
Ragnarok is a visual tour de force. The environments are incredibly detailed, from the snow-covered landscapes of Midgard to the vibrant forests of Alfheim. Character models are equally impressive, with realistic facial animations and intricate armor designs. The game runs smoothly on PlayStation 5, taking full advantage of the console’s capabilities.
The audio design is equally impressive. The soundtrack is epic and emotionally resonant, perfectly complementing the game’s dramatic moments. The voice acting is top-notch, with each actor delivering a compelling performance. The sound effects are also incredibly detailed, bringing the world of Ragnarok to life.
Criticisms: Where Ragnarok Falls Short
While Ragnarok is a fantastic game, it’s not without its flaws. As mentioned earlier, the pacing can be inconsistent. Some players felt that certain plot points were rushed, while others felt that the game dragged on unnecessarily.
Another common criticism is the focus on side characters. While these characters are well-written, some players felt that they detracted from the core relationship between Kratos and Atreus.
Finally, some players found the ending to be somewhat divisive. While it provides closure to the story, it also leaves some questions unanswered. Whether you find the ending satisfying will likely depend on your personal preferences.
Ragnarok: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about God of War Ragnarok, designed to provide quick answers and deeper insights:
1. Is Ragnarok a direct sequel to God of War (2018)?
Yes, Ragnarok is a direct sequel, continuing the story of Kratos and Atreus several years after the events of the first game. You don’t need to play the first game to enjoy it, but it’s highly recommended to fully understand the characters, plot, and world.
2. What platforms is Ragnarok available on?
Ragnarok is available on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.
3. How long does it take to beat Ragnarok?
The main story takes around 25-30 hours to complete. Completing all side quests and exploring the world can easily add another 20-30 hours of gameplay.
4. Are there multiple endings in Ragnarok?
No, there is only one main ending to the story. However, your choices throughout the game can influence the dialogue and minor character interactions.
5. Does Ragnarok require knowledge of Norse mythology?
No, but it helps. The game does a good job of explaining the mythology, but familiarity with Norse gods, creatures, and legends will enhance your enjoyment.
6. Is Ragnarok a difficult game?
Ragnarok offers a range of difficulty options, from “Give Me Story” for a more narrative-focused experience to “Give Me God of War” for a punishing challenge. You can adjust the difficulty at any time.
7. Can I transfer my save data from PS4 to PS5?
Yes, you can transfer your save data from the PS4 version of the game to the PS5 version.
8. Are there any post-game activities in Ragnarok?
Yes, there are several post-game activities, including completing remaining side quests, exploring optional areas, and tackling challenging boss battles. The game encourages you to continue exploring even after the main story is finished.
9. Does Ragnarok have multiplayer?
No, Ragnarok is a single-player experience.
10. Is Ragnarok worth the purchase?
For fans of God of War (2018) and action-adventure games, Ragnarok is definitely worth the purchase. It’s a beautifully crafted game with a compelling story, engaging combat, and stunning visuals.
11. What are the main differences between the PS4 and PS5 versions of Ragnarok?
The PS5 version offers improved graphics, higher resolution, faster loading times, and more immersive DualSense controller features compared to the PS4 version.
12. Does Ragnarok have New Game Plus?
Yes, a New Game Plus mode was added post-launch, allowing players to replay the game with their existing equipment and abilities, facing even greater challenges.
13. Who are some of the new characters in Ragnarok?
Notable new characters include Thor, Angrboda, and Odin’s various sons and lieutenants. These characters play significant roles in the story and offer new perspectives on the world of Norse mythology.
14. What are the primary weapons used by Kratos in Ragnarok?
Kratos’ primary weapons remain the Leviathan Axe and the Blades of Chaos, both of which can be upgraded with new runic attacks and abilities.
15. Are there any DLC plans for Ragnarok beyond New Game Plus?
While there have been no official announcements regarding story DLC, the possibility remains open. Sony Santa Monica Studio has a history of supporting their games with post-launch content.