How Many Epilogues Are in God of War Ragnarok? A Deep Dive
God of War Ragnarok is an epic, emotionally resonant adventure that concludes the Norse saga beautifully. While the main narrative reaches a satisfying climax, the game extends beyond the credits with content that enriches the experience. God of War Ragnarok features three distinct epilogues, each offering closure and hinting at potential futures for the characters. Although only one features a dedicated cutscene, all three are meaningful and contribute to the overall narrative tapestry of the game.
Understanding the Epilogues
These aren’t traditional “endings” with diverging paths. Instead, they are post-story content chunks that offer closure on specific character arcs and world events. Think of them as “epilogue chapters” rather than separate endings. Each involves completing specific tasks and interacting with certain characters, allowing players to witness the immediate aftermath of Ragnarok and how the world begins to rebuild.
Epilogue 1: “A Viking Funeral”
This epilogue centers around Brok’s funeral. Brok’s tragic death is a pivotal moment in the game, and this quest allows Kratos, Atreus, Sindri, and other characters to say their final goodbyes. This is not just a simple memorial service. It is a necessary emotional and storytelling beat that concludes Brok’s arc. This quest is initiated by talking to Lunda at Sindri’s house.
Epilogue 2: “The Broken Prison”
This epilogue focuses on finding and freeing the real Tyr. This quest helps to reveal one of the biggest questions left hanging after Odin’s reveal, which is finding the real God of War. This quest not only provides a sense of resolution to the Tyr storyline but also opens up possibilities for future adventures. To trigger this epilogue, head to the Raven Tree and speak with the characters there.
Epilogue 3: “The Promise”
This epilogue centers around Atreus’ departure. This epilogue focuses on Atreus, who seeks to find the remaining giants. As he sets off, he promises to return, leaving the door open for his eventual reunion with Kratos and Freya. This particular quest is initiated after completing “A Viking Funeral” and “The Broken Prison”. Speak with Atreus at Sindri’s house to kickstart this quest.
The Significance of Completing All Epilogues
While the main story wraps up the central conflict of Ragnarok, the epilogues offer valuable context and closure:
- Emotional Resonance: Completing the epilogues gives players a deeper understanding of the emotional toll Ragnarok has taken on the characters.
- Worldbuilding: The epilogues expand on the game’s world by showing how the Nine Realms are recovering after the war.
- Character Development: Witnessing the post-war decisions of characters like Atreus and Tyr provide insight into their motivations and future paths.
Even though only “The Promise” features a distinct cutscene, each quest is crafted to build the world and create the feeling that you are not simply moving from one task to the next, but actually seeing and understanding the emotional landscape of the world that’s been created.
Beyond the Epilogues: Post-Game Content
God of War Ragnarok offers a substantial amount of post-game content. The epilogues themselves are part of this content, but there’s plenty more to explore:
- Muspelheim Trials: Test your combat skills in challenging trials at the Muspelheim Crucible.
- Berserker Gravestones: Fight powerful Berserker bosses scattered throughout the realms.
- Draugr Holes: Close these dangerous portals by defeating the Draugr within.
- Collectibles: Track down missing artifacts, flowers, and other collectibles to complete your exploration.
- Favors: Undertake side quests to help the people of the Nine Realms.
This post-game content is designed to extend your time with the game and allows you to fully explore the world after the events of Ragnarok. It’s not directly related to the three epilogues, but it enhances the overall post-game experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are the epilogues missable?
No, the epilogues are not missable. They become available after completing the main story, and you can access them at any time from the in-game map.
2. Do I need to complete all side quests before starting the epilogues?
No, you can complete side quests before, during, or after the epilogues. The order doesn’t matter.
3. How do I start the epilogues?
“A Viking Funeral” is initiated by talking to Lunda at Sindri’s House. “The Broken Prison” is initiated by heading to the Raven Tree and speaking with the characters there. “The Promise” is initiated by speaking to Atreus at Sindri’s house after completing the other two epilogues.
4. Is there a “true” ending to God of War Ragnarok?
No, there isn’t a single “true” ending. The main story concludes with the battle against Odin, and the epilogues provide additional closure and context. All of the epilogues are canon.
5. What happens if I 100% complete God of War Ragnarok?
While there aren’t specific unlockables tied to 100% completion, reaching this milestone signifies that you’ve experienced all the game has to offer. It doesn’t unlock a secret cutscene, but it does provide a sense of accomplishment.
6. How long does it take to complete the epilogues?
The epilogues themselves are relatively short, taking a few hours to complete. However, the time required will vary depending on your play style and exploration habits.
7. Does completing the epilogues affect New Game Plus?
No, completing the epilogues doesn’t directly affect New Game Plus. However, you’ll carry over all your equipment and progress, making the New Game Plus experience more rewarding.
8. Will there be DLC that expands on the story after the epilogues?
While there hasn’t been any announcement, there is a chance that future DLC could further expand upon the story or explore new realms. Only time will tell.
9. Does Atreus return in future God of War games?
Atreus is a vital character and is a fan favorite. Due to his actions in “The Promise,” he has set himself on a path that could lead him away from Kratos.
10. Are there any new weapons or armor in the epilogues?
While the epilogues primarily focus on narrative closure, you may find valuable resources and upgrades along the way.
11. Is the real Tyr as powerful as Odin?
That is something that has not yet been fully revealed, but the real Tyr is known to be a formidable warrior and tactician.
12. How does the story of God of War Ragnarok connect to Norse mythology?
God of War Ragnarok draws heavily from Norse mythology, but it takes creative liberties with the story and characters. It should not be treated as an accurate representation of Norse myth. As the Games Learning Society often highlights, games can be powerful tools for engaging with complex topics, but they often prioritize entertainment over strict historical or mythological accuracy.
13. Can you replay quests in God of War Ragnarok?
Yes, through the use of checkpoints and manual saves, you can replay certain quests in God of War Ragnarok.
14. What happened to Sindri after Brok’s funeral?
After Brok’s funeral, Sindri becomes estranged due to the grief and betrayal that he feels after Brok’s death. As a result, he is emotionally damaged, and leaves to deal with the loss of his brother alone.
15. Can you max out Kratos in New Game Plus?
In NG+, you can further enhance Kratos’ power and stats, exceeding the level nine cap from the base game.
God of War Ragnarok’s three epilogues offer a satisfying and enriching conclusion to the Norse saga. By completing them, players gain a deeper understanding of the characters, the world, and the lasting impact of Ragnarok. These additional content chunks are well worth the time investment and solidify God of War Ragnarok as a truly unforgettable gaming experience.