Playing the God of War Saga: A Chronological Journey Through Blood and Redemption

So you want to tackle the God of War saga in the order that Kratos actually lived it? Buckle up, Spartan, because it’s a wild ride through ancient Greece and Norse mythology, filled with gods, monsters, and a whole lot of vengeance. Here’s the chronological order to play the God of War games:

1. God of War: Ascension (2013) – This is where Kratos’ journey of redemption truly begins, detailing his struggle against Ares and his imprisonment by the Furies.

2. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008) – A PSP title, but crucial, this game shows Kratos serving the gods and features flashbacks that flesh out his past.

3. God of War (2005) – The game that started it all! Witness Kratos’ descent into madness, his pact with Ares, and the tragic events that earn him the title “Ghost of Sparta.”

4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010) – Another PSP gem, this expands on Kratos’ family history and his relationship with his brother, Deimos.

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007) – This mobile game (while less impactful than the others) fills the gap between God of War and God of War II, showing Kratos’ continued service and some political machinations. While harder to experience now, a plot summary will keep you aligned!

6. God of War II (2007) – Kratos, now a god himself, faces the wrath of Zeus and embarks on a quest to change his fate.

7. God of War III (2010) – The epic conclusion to the Greek saga, where Kratos unleashes his fury upon Olympus and seeks ultimate revenge.

8. God of War (2018) – A soft reboot that takes Kratos to the realm of Norse mythology. This marks the start of a new chapter with his son, Atreus.

Following this order will give you the most complete and nuanced understanding of Kratos’ character arc.

FAQs: Diving Deeper into the God of War Saga

1. Do I have to play in chronological order?

Not necessarily, but playing in chronological order significantly enhances the experience, especially the emotional impact of the later games. Understanding Kratos’ past trauma makes his decisions in the Norse saga much more profound.

2. Can I skip any of the games?

While possible, skipping games diminishes the experience. God of War: Ascension and the PSP titles, though not mainline console games, offer crucial backstory. However, if pressed for time, consider watching plot summaries of God of War: Betrayal, Chains of Olympus, and Ghost of Sparta.

3. Which God of War game should I play first if I’m new to the series?

If you’re new, the best entry point is God of War (2018). It’s a soft reboot that’s accessible to newcomers while still rewarding veterans. It also has fantastic gameplay and story.

4. Is God of War (2018) a direct sequel to God of War III?

Yes and no. While it continues Kratos’ story after the Greek saga, it’s also a new beginning. Understanding the events of God of War III enriches the experience, but it’s not strictly required.

5. Do I need to play God of War (2018) before God of War Ragnarök?

Absolutely! God of War Ragnarök is a direct sequel to God of War (2018). Playing the former without the latter will leave you completely lost in the plot and character dynamics.

6. What platforms are the God of War games available on?

• PS2: God of War, God of War II
• PSP: God of War: Chains of Olympus, God of War: Ghost of Sparta
• PS3: God of War, God of War II, God of War III, God of War: Ascension, God of War: Chains of Olympus, God of War: Ghost of Sparta (via collections)
• PS4: God of War III Remastered, God of War (2018)
• PS5: All PS4 titles are playable on PS5. Many are also available via PlayStation Plus Premium through streaming or download, including the older titles (though some require streaming).
• PC: God of War (2018), God of War Ragnarök

7. Is God of War: Betrayal essential to the story?

Not essential, but it bridges the gap between God of War and God of War II. It’s a mobile game, so it’s harder to play, but a plot summary will suffice.

8. How long does it take to beat each God of War game?

Playtimes vary, but here’s a rough estimate for the main story:

• God of War: Ascension: 8-10 hours
• God of War: Chains of Olympus: 5-7 hours
• God of War: 9-10 hours
• God of War: Ghost of Sparta: 6-8 hours
• God of War II: 12-15 hours
• God of War III: 10-12 hours
• God of War (2018): 25-30 hours
• God of War Ragnarök: 25-30 hours

9. What makes God of War (2018) so different from the previous games?

God of War (2018) features a more intimate story, a closer third-person perspective, RPG elements, and a focus on the relationship between Kratos and Atreus. It also shifts from Greek to Norse mythology.

10. Who is Atreus, and what is his role in the God of War saga?

Atreus is Kratos’ son and a central figure in the Norse saga. He possesses unique abilities and knowledge that are crucial to their journey. His identity and destiny are major plot points.

11. Why did Kratos leave Greece?

The events of God of War III left Greece in ruins, and Kratos sought to escape his past and find peace. He eventually settled in Midgard (the realm of humans in Norse mythology).

12. What difficulty setting should I choose?

For beginners, “Give Me a Story” is ideal to focus on the narrative. “Give Me a Balanced Experience” offers a moderate challenge, while “Give Me a Challenge” and “Give Me God of War” are for experienced players seeking a brutal test.

13. What is “Ghost of Sparta?”

The “Ghost of Sparta” is a title given to Kratos due to the ashes of his deceased family clinging to his skin, making him appear pale white. This mark serves as a constant reminder of his tragic past.

14. How old is Kratos?

Kratos’ exact age is never explicitly stated, but based on hints in God of War Ragnarök, he is likely over 1,000 years old.

15. Is there educational value in playing God of War?

Absolutely! While primarily entertainment, the God of War series provides insights into Greek and Norse mythology, albeit with creative liberties. It can spark interest in history, literature, and different cultures. It can also, and perhaps even more powerfully, provide a narrative structure through which players can explore complex themes of responsibility, family, and trauma. Initiatives like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org explore how games can be effectively used for learning and development.

This covers everything you need to dive deep into the God of War saga, in order! Now, go forth, Spartan, and may your journey be filled with glorious battles and poignant moments. Just try not to kill too many gods.