God of War vs. God of War Ragnarok: Which Game Reigns Supreme?

In a direct comparison, God of War Ragnarok is technically the better game. It refines and expands upon the groundwork laid by its predecessor in virtually every aspect, boasting a more intricate narrative, enhanced combat mechanics, and a vast, beautifully rendered world filled with compelling characters. However, whether it surpasses the 2018 God of War as a whole depends on what you value most in a gaming experience.

Examining the Subtleties

God of War (2018) represented a seismic shift for the franchise. It wasn’t merely a reboot; it was a complete reimagining, stripping away the bombastic, arcade-style action of the Greek era in favor of a more grounded, character-driven narrative set in the Norse realm. This reinvention was revolutionary, instantly captivating players and critics alike. It felt fresh, daring, and wholly unexpected.

Ragnarok, on the other hand, is arguably an evolution of this formula. It builds upon the systems, mechanics, and narrative threads established in God of War (2018), expanding the scope and deepening the emotional resonance. The combat is more varied, the world is more expansive, and the stakes are higher. Yet, it lacks that initial shock of the new. It doesn’t redefine the franchise in the same way its predecessor did.

Key Differences and Improvements

• Narrative Depth: While God of War (2018) focused on Kratos’s journey to bury his wife’s ashes and protect his son, Atreus, Ragnarok delves deeper into Norse mythology, exploring the prophecy of Ragnarok and the intertwined fates of gods and mortals. The character arcs are richer, and the emotional stakes are significantly heightened.

• Combat Mechanics: Ragnarok expands the combat system with new weapon abilities, runic attacks, and enemy types. The addition of Atreus as a more active combatant also adds a layer of tactical depth. While God of War (2018) had excellent combat, Ragnarok offers more options and greater strategic possibilities.

• World Design: The nine realms are brought to life in stunning detail in Ragnarok, each boasting unique environments, creatures, and challenges. The world feels more interconnected and alive than in its predecessor.

• Pacing and Structure: Ragnarok has a more varied pacing and structure, with multiple playable characters and interwoven storylines. The story is grander in scope, with more exploration and side quests available to the player.

The Subjective Element: Innovation vs. Refinement

Ultimately, the question of which game is “better” comes down to personal preference. If you value groundbreaking innovation and a sense of discovery, God of War (2018) might resonate more deeply. Its transformative nature and fresh perspective made it an unforgettable experience.

If you prioritize refined gameplay, a more complex narrative, and a richer world, Ragnarok is undoubtedly the superior game. It takes everything that made God of War (2018) great and elevates it to another level.

Both games are masterpieces in their own right. God of War (2018) revitalized the franchise, while Ragnarok cemented its place among the pantheon of gaming legends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Ragnarok harder than God of War (2018)?

Yes, God of War Ragnarok is generally considered to be more challenging than its predecessor. While difficulty is subjective and can be adjusted in the game’s settings, Ragnarok introduces more complex enemy types, challenging boss battles, and intricate puzzles.

2. Did God of War Ragnarok win any awards?

God of War Ragnarok was a critical darling, winning numerous awards, including six at The Game Awards 2022. However, it lost out on the coveted Game of the Year award to Elden Ring.

3. Is GoW Ragnarok the best-looking game?

God of War Ragnarok is undeniably a visually stunning game, showcasing impressive graphics and art direction. However, whether it’s the “best-looking” game is subjective and depends on personal preferences. Some argue that The Last of Us Part II, also on the PS4, is superior in some aspects.

4. Should you play GoW (2018) before Ragnarok?

Yes, playing God of War (2018) is highly recommended before diving into Ragnarok. While you can technically play Ragnarok without prior knowledge, you’ll miss out on crucial character development, narrative context, and emotional resonance.

5. Is Kratos weaker in Ragnarok?

In a sense, yes. The developers have stated that Kratos in the Norse saga appears “weaker” due to the loss of his Greek magic and powers when he left his homeland.

6. What order should I play the God of War games in?

To experience the God of War saga chronologically, the recommended order is:

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)
2. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
3. God of War (2005)
4. God of War II (2007)
5. God of War III (2010)
6. God of War (2018)
7. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

However, you can enjoy the Norse saga (God of War (2018) and Ragnarok) independently.

7. Does Kratos get Mjolnir?

No, Kratos does not wield Mjölnir in God of War Ragnarok. While the idea was appealing to many fans, the lore and narrative preclude Kratos (or Atreus) from wielding Thor’s hammer.

8. Is GoW Ragnarok a AAA game?

Yes, God of War Ragnarok is a AAA game, developed and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Its massive budget, extensive development cycle, and widespread marketing campaign firmly place it within the AAA category. That FromSoftware’s latest manages to achieve this while providing players with such a generously sized game world might be what allows it to ultimately edge out God of War: Ragnarok for Game of the Year honors, but both should serve as valuable examples for AAA game developers to learn from. You can further enhance your understanding of games and learning by visiting the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

9. What is the highest-rated God of War Ragnarok game?

God of War Ragnarok boasts a 94% rating on Metacritic, making it one of the highest-rated games of the year.

10. Does GoW Ragnarok have two endings?

God of War Ragnarok has an additional ending, though it’s more of an epilogue that provides closure to certain storylines and teases potential future developments.

11. Who is the hardest boss to beat in GoW Ragnarok?

GNA, the Valkyrie Queen, is widely considered the hardest boss in God of War Ragnarok. Her aggressive attacks, diverse moveset, and high health make her a formidable opponent.

12. Is there a secret ending in GoW Ragnarok?

Yes, God of War Ragnarok features a secret ending, specifically a post-credits scene that involves a Viking funeral for Brok.

13. Is God of War Ragnarok smaller than God of War (2018)?

God of War Ragnarok is larger in terms of content and scope than God of War (2018), with more realms to explore, characters to interact with, and quests to complete. However, some argue that God of War (2018) had a more focused and impactful story.

14. How long is GoW Ragnarok to beat?

God of War Ragnarok takes approximately 26 hours to complete the main story. Completionists can expect to spend around 53 hours to achieve 100% completion.

15. Is the Leviathan Axe stronger than Mjölnir?

Canonically, the Leviathan Axe is considered more powerful than Mjölnir in the God of War universe. This stems from its ability to channel elemental forces and its proven effectiveness against powerful beings.

Both God of War and God of War Ragnarok are fantastic games in their own right. It depends on what you’re looking for in a gaming experience.