Delving into the Pantheon: Should You Play God of War 1 Through 3?
Yes, you can just play God of War 1 to 3, but should you? The answer, as with many things in the gaming world, is a nuanced one. While each game offers a largely self-contained experience filled with brutal combat and mythical beasts, playing them in order significantly enhances your understanding and appreciation of Kratos’s journey. Think of it like reading a compelling book series – each installment can stand alone, but the impact is far greater when you’ve followed the protagonist’s evolution from the very beginning.
The Case for Playing God of War 1-3
Playing the original God of War trilogy provides essential context. You witness Kratos’s transformation from a Spartan warrior to the God of War, fueled by rage and vengeance after being tricked into killing his own family. Each game builds upon the previous one, layering his character with complexities and revealing more about the tragic events that define him.
Understanding the Narrative Arc
Skipping the first two games means missing vital plot points. You’ll miss the setup for Kratos’s feud with Ares, the full scope of his Spartan past, and the intricate web of Olympian politics that ensnares him. While God of War 3 does a decent job of filling in some gaps, the emotional impact of witnessing these events firsthand is irreplaceable. You won’t fully grasp why Kratos is so driven, so angry, and so determined to obliterate the gods.
Appreciating the Evolution of Gameplay
The gameplay mechanics evolve throughout the trilogy. While the core combat remains satisfyingly visceral, each game introduces new weapons, abilities, and enemies that build upon the foundation laid by its predecessors. Playing in order allows you to gradually master these elements and appreciate the refinements made with each iteration. God of War 1 establishes the fundamental combat system, God of War 2 expands on it significantly, and God of War 3 takes it to a whole new level of spectacle.
Experiencing the Classic Era of God of War
The original trilogy represents a specific era of gaming. These games are unapologetically violent, action-packed experiences that emphasize spectacle and raw power. They offer a distinct contrast to the more narrative-focused and emotionally resonant direction the series took with the 2018 reboot and Ragnarok. Playing them allows you to appreciate this different approach and understand the series’ transformation over time. If you enjoy pure, unadulterated hack-and-slash gameplay, these games are must-plays.
The Case Against Needing to Play God of War 1-3
Despite the benefits of playing in order, it’s understandable why some gamers might consider skipping the earlier entries. Modern gaming tastes have evolved, and the older God of War games, while still excellent, can feel dated in some aspects.
Accessibility and Time Commitment
Finding and playing the original God of War games can be challenging. While God of War 3 has been remastered for the PS4 and PS5, accessing God of War 1 and 2 requires a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, which may not be ideal for all players. Furthermore, committing to three lengthy games before even reaching the acclaimed God of War (2018) or Ragnarok can be a significant time investment. If you’re eager to experience the newer installments, skipping ahead might seem like a reasonable option.
Focus on Gameplay Over Story
Let’s face it: while the story in the original trilogy has its moments, the primary draw is the gameplay. If you’re primarily interested in the exhilarating combat and epic boss battles, you can still enjoy God of War 3 without delving too deeply into the narrative complexities of the previous games. The game throws you right into the action, and its core mechanics are easy enough to pick up without prior experience.
The Reboot Factor
God of War (2018) serves as a soft reboot of the series. While it acknowledges Kratos’s past, it introduces a new setting, new characters, and a significantly different gameplay style. The game is designed to be accessible to newcomers, and it does an excellent job of introducing Kratos’s backstory without requiring prior knowledge of the original trilogy. Ragnarok continues this trend, building upon the foundation established by its predecessor.
Ultimately, It’s Your Journey
The decision of whether or not to play God of War 1 through 3 is ultimately a personal one. If you’re a completionist who values story and world-building, playing in order is highly recommended. If you’re primarily interested in the gameplay or eager to dive into the newer installments, skipping ahead is a perfectly viable option. No matter what you choose, the God of War series offers a thrilling and unforgettable gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to play God of War 1 and 2 before God of War 3?
No, you don’t need to. God of War 3 provides enough context to understand the basic plot and Kratos’s motivations. However, playing the first two games will give you a much deeper appreciation for the story and characters.
2. Will I be completely lost if I skip God of War 1 and 2?
Probably not completely lost, but you will miss important character development and plot points. God of War 3 does a decent job of recapping past events, but experiencing them firsthand is far more impactful.
3. Are the original God of War games available on PS5?
God of War 3 Remastered is directly compatible with the PS5. God of War 1 and 2 are available through PlayStation Plus Premium.
4. What’s the best order to play the God of War games?
The chronological order is: Ascension, Chains of Olympus, God of War 1, Ghost of Sparta, God of War 2, God of War 3, God of War (2018), and God of War Ragnarok. However, many recommend playing in release order for the best experience.
5. Is God of War (2018) a sequel to God of War 3?
Yes, God of War (2018) is a sequel to God of War 3, but it also serves as a soft reboot of the series. It takes place many years after the events of God of War 3 and features a new setting and gameplay style.
6. Can I play God of War (2018) without playing the original trilogy?
Absolutely. God of War (2018) is designed to be accessible to newcomers and does an excellent job of introducing Kratos’s backstory without requiring prior knowledge.
7. Is God of War Ragnarok a good starting point for the series?
While Ragnarok is excellent, starting with God of War (2018) is highly recommended as it sets the stage for Ragnarok’s story and gameplay mechanics.
8. Are the God of War games related by story?
Yes, all of the God of War games are connected by an overarching story. Kratos’s journey continues throughout each installment, albeit with significant changes in tone and setting in the later games.
9. How long does it take to beat God of War 1?
Depending on the difficulty setting, it usually takes between 20-25 hours to complete the main story of God of War 1. Completionist runs can take around 40-50 hours.
10. Why are the God of War games so violent?
The violence in the God of War games is a deliberate design choice that reflects Kratos’s rage and his brutal world. It’s an integral part of the series’ identity and contributes to its mature tone.
11. Does playing the previous God of War games make God of War (2018) and Ragnarok more enjoyable?
Yes, understanding Kratos’s past makes his character arc in God of War (2018) and Ragnarok more meaningful. Seeing his growth and attempts to atone for his past actions is more impactful when you know the depths of his previous transgressions.
12. Are the PSP God of War games important to the overall story?
While not essential, God of War: Chains of Olympus and God of War: Ghost of Sparta provide additional backstory and flesh out Kratos’s character. They’re worth playing if you’re a die-hard fan or want a more complete understanding of the God of War universe.
13. Where can I learn more about the educational value of video games?
The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) is a great resource for information on the educational aspects of gaming. They explore how games can be used to enhance learning and develop valuable skills.
14. Does God of War III remastered have all the original DLC?
God of War III Remastered includes all the original DLC costumes and content.
15. Are there any rumors of God of War 1 and 2 being remastered for PS5?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for God of War 1 and 2 to be remastered for the PS5. However, given the popularity of the series, it’s certainly a possibility for the future.
Ultimately, whether you choose to play God of War 1 through 3 is a matter of personal preference. However, the context and depth they provide to Kratos’s journey are undeniable.