Did Thor Revive Kratos? Unpacking the God of War Ragnarök Mystery
Yes, Thor does revive Kratos in God of War Ragnarök, a pivotal moment that significantly impacts the game’s narrative and character development. This act, however, is not one of simple benevolence or a change of heart. Instead, it’s a complex decision driven by intertwined motivations involving Odin’s schemes, prophecies, and Thor’s own hidden desires. The revival occurs after a brutal initial clash where Thor, wielding the power of Mjolnir, seemingly defeats Kratos, only to bring him back moments later. This event forms a critical part of the game’s early narrative arc and leaves players questioning Thor’s true intentions. The “how” and “why” behind this revival are central to understanding the intricate web of relationships and prophecies that define God of War Ragnarök.
The Clash and the Revival
The fight between Thor and Kratos early in the game is nothing short of epic. It’s a battle of titans, showcasing the raw power both gods possess. Thor, enraged by Kratos’s past actions, particularly his role in the death of his half-brother Baldur, unleashes a relentless barrage of lightning-infused blows. At the end of this first encounter, Thor’s raw power appears to overwhelm Kratos, leading to a seemingly fatal conclusion. However, in a shocking twist, Thor uses Mjolnir to revive Kratos. This act is not explained outright. It’s presented as a brutal gameplay mechanic. One moment, players are facing a “Game Over” screen; the next, Kratos is back in the fight, setting a precedent for the complex, often morally ambiguous nature of the relationships to come.
Understanding Thor’s Motives
Why would Thor revive the very man who killed members of his family? The answer is multifaceted. Firstly, Odin had plans for Atreus, Kratos’s son, and knew that killing Kratos would likely cause Atreus to mistrust and refuse any cooperation with him. Therefore, Kratos needed to be alive to manipulate Atreus through him. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly for Thor, the revival serves as an expression of Thor’s personal desires. It isn’t simply about Odin’s grand plan; Thor’s actions are also driven by his own hidden motivations. This is hinted at in the dialogue that follows, and in later conversations, showing that Thor seeks a worthy adversary, and that the clash had awoken something within him, that made him crave another fight with the Ghost of Sparta.
Thor had likely heard tales of the Ghost of Sparta’s past and was intrigued by the legend that followed him. He wanted to test his strength against a warrior of such renown. The revival can be seen as Thor’s way of prolonging the fight to satisfy his need to see just how far the God of War can be pushed. This also ties into Thor’s own internal struggles, his disillusionment with Odin, and his repressed anger and longing for a more fulfilling life.
The Prophecy and Faye’s Influence
The reason why Kratos ultimately doesn’t meet his prophesied end in Ragnarök is equally complex. The game establishes a prophecy that indicates Kratos is destined to die in his son’s arms. Thankfully, that fate is avoided through choices made by Kratos and Atreus, as well as through the actions of Kratos’ late wife, Faye. Faye’s foresight and planning, she ensured to actively alter the course of fate. She was the one responsible for destroying the painting in God of War that depicted Kratos’s death. This act meant to prevent both Kratos and Atreus from becoming slaves to the prophecy. The destruction of the prophecy ensures they would not inadvertently bring about their own doom. Ultimately, Kratos’s survival is tied to his embrace of a path of peace and change, influenced by his family, rather than relying purely on his godly powers or fighting prowess. This transformation is essential to the narrative and highlights the power of free will over predetermined fate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Kratos still alive at the end of God of War Ragnarök?
Yes, Kratos is very much alive by the ending of God of War Ragnarök. The game specifically subverts the prophecy of his death. He survives the final confrontation and his future is left open for possible follow-up stories.
2. Why did Thor not heal from Kratos’ axe wound?
Thor’s wound festers due to the Eitr imbued in the Leviathan Axe, which is a consequence of the axe’s interaction with Jormungandr’s venom. This Eitr causes a chronic infection that cannot be healed through normal means.
3. Could Kratos wield Mjolnir?
No, Kratos cannot wield Mjolnir, primarily because the hammer’s enchantment dictates who can lift it and its narrative function is more significant than as another weapon. Additionally, Mjolnir does not fit the character’s arc as a weapon of aggression. He wields his own weapons that fit his character arc and history.
4. What is the scar on Kratos’ stomach from?
The scar on Kratos’s stomach is the result of a childhood encounter with the Olympian god Ares. The scar has an emotional meaning to Kratos, that symbolizes his past and his sins.
5. How old is Kratos in God of War Ragnarök?
Based on estimated timelines, Kratos is likely over 1050 years old by the time of God of War (2018), and even older in Ragnarök. This is calculated using the established timeline and his age during the events of the original games.
6. How many times has Kratos died and been revived?
Kratos has died and been revived a total of three confirmed times throughout the series, mostly within the original trilogy. These instances are central to his character’s arc and his seemingly never-ending struggle.
7. Is God of War Ragnarök the last game in the series?
While Santa Monica Studio has stated that Ragnarök concludes the Norse Saga, it does not necessarily mean it’s the end of the God of War franchise. The ending leaves the possibility for follow-ups centered around Atreus or new narratives.
8. How did Kratos survive his suicide with the Blade of Olympus?
Kratos’s ability to survive suicide attempts is part of the curse of being both a demigod and a god. His immortality, tied to his past sins, prevents him from truly dying.
9. Where is Atreus after the events of God of War Ragnarök?
After the cataclysm, Atreus is seen in Midgard, and eventually reunites with Angrboda. This indicates his separate path forward, hinting at his future development away from Kratos.
10. Why was Tyr actually Odin?
The Tyr that Kratos and company had been interacting with was actually Odin in disguise. This was Odin’s way of gathering information and keeping tabs on Kratos. It was part of his plan to manipulate events to his favor.
11. Is Kratos older than Odin?
No, Odin is far older than Kratos. Odin existed before the creation of the world and the realm of the gods. Therefore, he is millennia older.
12. Why did Heimdall call Thor a “sick man”?
Heimdall’s comment stems from his deep disrespect for Thor, stemming from his knowledge of Thor’s alcoholism, unattractive appearance, and half-giant status. This is reflective of Heimdall’s elitist attitude.
13. Did Kratos regret killing gods and other beings?
Yes, Kratos deeply regrets his past actions and seeks redemption throughout the Norse saga. He acknowledges having killed both the deserving and the undeserving, showcasing his evolution.
14. What is the secret ending of God of War Ragnarök?
The secret ending is revealed through a side quest called “A Viking Funeral”, initiated by talking to Lunda at Sindri’s house after the main story. This ending adds more depth to the narrative.
15. Who is stronger, Kratos or Goku?
This question is highly debated, but in terms of pure strength, Kratos may have the advantage due to more prevalent lifting feats. However, Goku’s power scale is difficult to accurately measure against Kratos within the different game universes.
In conclusion, the revival of Kratos by Thor is not just a plot device but a complex and crucial point in God of War Ragnarök. It highlights the intricate nature of the characters and their motivations, setting the stage for the game’s broader narrative of fate, redemption, and personal choice.