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Unlocking the Explosive Power: The Forbidden Grip of the Ages Combo in God of War

The Forbidden Grip of the Ages in God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarok is a coveted pommel for the Leviathan Axe that grants a significant stat boost and, most importantly, adds a unique and powerful finisher to Kratos’ light attack (R1) combos. The Forbidden Grip of the Ages combo is executed by performing a series of four light attacks followed by either another light attack (R1+R1+R1+R1) or a heavy attack (R1+R1+R1+R2). This finisher unleashes a concussive wave that damages and staggers enemies, making it a valuable tool for crowd control and dealing extra damage.

Delving Deeper into the Forbidden Grip of the Ages

The Forbidden Grip of the Ages isn’t just a simple stat booster; it’s a strategic choice that impacts your combat style. Let’s explore what makes this pommel so special and how to maximize its potential.

A Stat Boost and More

The primary appeal of the Forbidden Grip of the Ages lies in its universal stat increase. When equipped, it boosts Strength, Runic, Defense, Vitality, Luck, and Cooldown. This balanced increase makes it especially appealing in the early to mid-game, when players are still developing their build and haven’t specialized in a particular combat style.

However, its unique finisher, the concussive wave, is where it truly shines. This wave not only deals damage but also staggers enemies, providing Kratos with a brief window to follow up with further attacks or reposition himself. This crowd control element is particularly useful against groups of enemies or when facing larger, more aggressive foes.

Obtaining the Forbidden Grip

In God of War (2018), acquiring the Forbidden Grip of the Ages involves solving a puzzle involving the Muspelheim Tower braziers. After lighting all the braziers atop the tower, players must stand in the center circle and look in a specific sequence: Middle, Left, Middle, Right, Left, Middle, Floor, Right, Left, Middle. “Middle” refers to Tyr’s Temple, “Left” and “Right” correspond to the left and right braziers, and “Floor” means looking down. Completing this sequence reveals a realm tear that contains the pommel.

In God of War Ragnarok, obtaining the grip is more straightforward. Interacting with the realm tear will reward you with the pommel.

Strategic Use in Combat

Mastering the Forbidden Grip of the Ages combo is crucial to fully utilizing its benefits. Players should practice the R1+R1+R1+R1 or R1+R1+R1+R2 sequence to reliably trigger the concussive wave. Understanding the wave’s range and impact allows for strategic positioning to maximize its effectiveness.

For example, when surrounded by enemies, performing the combo can create an opening for Kratos to escape or focus on a single target. Against larger enemies, the stagger effect allows for follow-up attacks that can deal significant damage.

Comparison to Other Pommels

While the Forbidden Grip of the Ages is excellent in the early game, other pommels become more specialized and powerful as players progress. Some pommels focus on specific stats like Strength or Runic, while others offer unique perks such as increased stagger resistance or elemental damage. The Forbidden Grip of the Ages, however, maintains its value as a versatile option throughout the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to the Forbidden Grip of the Ages and its combo:

Is the Forbidden Grip of the Ages available in both God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarok?

Yes, the Forbidden Grip of the Ages is available in both games. The method for obtaining it differs slightly. In God of War (2018), it involves solving a puzzle at the Muspelheim Tower. In God of War Ragnarok, it’s obtained simply by interacting with a realm tear.
What stats does the Forbidden Grip of the Ages boost?

The pommel provides a balanced boost to all six stats: Strength, Runic, Defense, Vitality, Luck, and Cooldown.
How do you perform the Forbidden Grip of the Ages combo?

The combo is performed by pressing the light attack button (R1) four times in a row, followed by either another light attack (R1+R1+R1+R1) or a heavy attack (R1+R1+R1+R2). This triggers the concussive wave finisher.
What does the concussive wave do?

The concussive wave deals damage and staggers enemies, providing Kratos with an opportunity for follow-up attacks or repositioning.
Is the Forbidden Grip of the Ages a good choice for endgame content?

While it’s a great early-game option, more specialized pommels might be preferred for endgame content, depending on your build and playstyle. The Forbidden Grip of the Ages remains a viable option due to its balanced stats.
Are there any other pommels that offer a similar effect to the Forbidden Grip of the Ages?

Some other pommels may offer similar crowd control effects or stat boosts, but the specific combination of balanced stats and a concussive wave finisher is unique to the Forbidden Grip of the Ages.
Can the concussive wave be upgraded?

The power of the concussive wave is directly influenced by the level of the Leviathan Axe and Kratos’ stats. Upgrading the axe and increasing Kratos’ Strength and Runic stats will enhance the wave’s damage.
Does the difficulty setting affect the effectiveness of the Forbidden Grip of the Ages?

The difficulty setting primarily affects enemy health and damage output. The core functionality of the Forbidden Grip of the Ages, including the stat boosts and concussive wave, remains the same regardless of the difficulty setting.
Is the Forbidden Grip of the Ages considered a “secret” item?

Yes, it’s often considered a secret item because obtaining it in God of War (2018) requires solving a specific puzzle. In God of War Ragnarok, while the realm tear is easier to find, it’s still a valuable and sought-after item.
What is the best way to incorporate the Forbidden Grip of the Ages combo into my combat strategy?

Practice the combo until it becomes second nature. Use it to create openings against groups of enemies, stagger larger foes, or interrupt enemy attacks.
Does the Forbidden Grip of the Ages work well with any particular armor set?

It works well with any armor set, especially early on, because it provides a balanced stat boost. As you progress, you might want to tailor your armor to complement a specific playstyle and choose a pommel that aligns with that focus. Players can learn more about game design and how different components work together to create a specific experience through resources provided by the Games Learning Society.
Are there any specific skills that enhance the effectiveness of the Forbidden Grip of the Ages combo?

Skills that increase Kratos’ Strength, Runic, or weapon damage will indirectly enhance the concussive wave’s damage output. Skills that improve stagger resistance or crowd control can also complement the pommel’s abilities.
Is the Forbidden Grip of the Ages better than the Grip of Healing?

The Forbidden Grip of the Ages is better for offensive capabilities due to its concussive wave, while the Grip of Healing is better for survivability, as it grants a chance to restore health on hit. The best choice depends on your playstyle and current needs.
Does the Forbidden Grip of the Ages have any impact on the Blades of Chaos?

No, the Forbidden Grip of the Ages only affects the Leviathan Axe. It does not provide any bonuses or changes to the Blades of Chaos.
Where can I learn more about game mechanics and design principles in games like God of War?

You can learn more about game mechanics and design principles in games through resources provided by the GamesLearningSociety.org website.

What is the forbidden grip of ages combo?