Will God of War: Ragnarok Be the Last Game? Exploring the Future of the Franchise
The short answer is no, God of War: Ragnarok is not the last game in the franchise. While it concludes the Norse saga for Kratos and Atreus, the ending leaves the door wide open for future installments. The game marks a significant shift, moving on from the familiar realms of Norse mythology and hinting at a vastly different future for the series. While Ragnarok provides closure to many plot threads, it also sows seeds for new adventures, making it clear that the story of Kratos and his world is far from over. While it may conclude the Norse saga, it does not conclude the franchise.
The End of the Norse Saga, But Not the End of Kratos
God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarok have been a deeply compelling and emotional two-part story that explored Kratos’ journey as a father and his struggle to come to terms with his past. The Norse setting, with its memorable gods like Odin and Thor, has captivated fans. However, the narrative arc for this mythology is definitively closed with Ragnarok. The game concludes the prophecy and sees the fates of key characters resolved, creating a sense of completion. This closure, however, was a deliberate narrative choice, intended to give Kratos and Atreus new horizons to explore.
Hints of What’s to Come
The game is filled with subtle and not-so-subtle hints of what’s next for Kratos. One notable event is Atreus’ decision to leave and seek out the remaining giants, leaving Kratos to forge his own path. Furthermore, the ending heavily suggests a journey beyond the familiar landscapes of Midgard, Asgard and the other Norse realms. It’s not a finale that feels like a full stop; it’s more of a comma, leading into new, intriguing territories.
The franchise is expected to explore new mythologies, with several paths seeming possible, particularly in light of Kratos’ earlier life in the Greek era and his subsequent exile.
Potential Avenues for Future God of War Games
While the end of the Norse saga is definitive, the franchise is set to continue. Here are some possibilities for where we might see Kratos venture next:
Egyptian Mythology Beckons
Perhaps the most heavily hinted at direction is Egyptian mythology. Kratos’ time in Egypt during his exile, as seen in God of War: Fallen God, has been a point of interest for fans. The storyline has revealed his turbulent time trying to rid himself of the Blades of Chaos, further fueling the intrigue of his potential return there. The Egyptian pantheon, with its complex gods and rich history, presents a fertile ground for the series to explore. Kratos’ reception by the locals, fearing his power, coupled with his own desire for peace, could form a strong basis for a compelling narrative.
Celtic Mythology: A Logical Step
Another intriguing possibility is Celtic mythology. The fact that Mimir is canonically Celtic adds to the likelihood. The series could explore themes of druids, ancient magic, and the many intriguing Celtic deities and monsters. This would allow the God of War universe to stay within the broader European context that feels familiar, while offering fresh landscapes and characters for Kratos to encounter.
The Future of Atreus: Spinoff Possibilities
Beyond Kratos, the ending of Ragnarok sets up Atreus’s journey as a potential spin-off. His goal of seeking out the remaining giants, combined with his developing powers, could form the basis of a whole new series within the God of War universe. This could allow for different gameplay styles, exploring a world through a more youthful and dynamic perspective. It is quite possible that a new game led by Atreus is in development right now.
Sindri’s Dark Turn: An Antagonist?
Another major plot point left open was Sindri’s dark turn in character development. His trauma in Ragnarok could lead him down a path of vengeance, potentially positioning him as an antagonist for future games. This would add a compelling human element to Kratos’ continuing journey, as he faces not only gods and monsters but also the fallout of his past actions on his former allies.
Santa Monica Studio’s Intentions and Future Projects
Sony’s Santa Monica Studio, the developer of the God of War series, has confirmed that there is a new God of War project underway. While it is unclear what form this new venture will take, it is apparent that they are eager to continue to develop within this world.
Breaking with Tradition
While Santa Monica Studio has not had much post-launch content for its games in the past, the popularity of God of War and God of War: Ragnarok may prompt them to break tradition. This could take the form of single-player DLC, an expansion that might delve into some of the many threads left open, or a spin-off. The studio clearly understands the investment fans have in this franchise and are looking at how to best expand it.
The Importance of Kratos’ Character Arc
The ending of Ragnarok is not just about the mythology; it’s about Kratos’ personal growth. The scene where he is worshiped and cries signifies a profound change from the man he once was. No longer solely driven by rage and vengeance, he is seen as a figure of hope and inspiration. This development is essential for the narrative’s direction, setting up a protagonist ready for a new chapter, filled with different challenges and a more complex worldview.
FAQs: Future of God of War
Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions to further clarify the future of the God of War franchise:
- Will there be another God of War game after Ragnarok?
Yes, while Ragnarok concludes the Norse saga, the story is set to continue with a new setting and possibly new protagonists. - Is Kratos’ story over?
No, Kratos’ story is not over. While the Norse saga concludes, his personal journey and future adventures are open for more games. - Will God of War go to Egypt next?
There is strong evidence pointing towards Egypt as the next mythological setting for the series, based on past mentions of Kratos’ time in Egypt, and the hints dropped in Ragnarok. - What mythology will God of War explore next besides Egypt?
Celtic mythology is another very possible next chapter, with Mimir’s origins making it a logical progression. - Is God of War: Ragnarok the last game in the series?
No, it is the last game in the Norse saga but not the last game of the God of War series as a whole. - Is there a possibility of a God of War spin-off featuring Atreus?
Yes, a spin-off starring Atreus is a strong possibility, focusing on his quest to find and restore the Giants. - Is Sindri now a villain in the God of War series?
Sindri’s actions in Ragnarok suggest he could become a future antagonist due to the grief and trauma he experienced. - Why did Kratos cry at the end of Ragnarok?
Kratos cried because he was finally seen as a god worthy of worship and respect, rather than the feared and hated figure he had been in the past. - Is Kratos dead at the end of Ragnarok?
No, Kratos does not die at the end of Ragnarok. His story continues. - Will Kratos fight Indian gods?
While the possibility exists, it’s unlikely that Kratos will interact with Indian gods in the next title. It is more probable that the game will follow Egyptian or Celtic mythology. - How did Kratos end up in Midgard?
After leaving Greece and the events of God of War 3, Kratos travelled to Midgard, possibly by boat as frequently seen in the later games. - Is there a planned DLC for God of War: Ragnarok?
While there are no official plans, a DLC is possible, as Santa Monica Studios may break tradition given the game’s popularity. - Where is the real Tyr?
The real Tyr can be found in the Aesir Prison Wreckage area of Niflheim after completing the main story. - How old is Kratos in Ragnarok?
Kratos is likely around 1,055 years old in God of War: Ragnarok. - Can Kratos lift Mjolnir?
No, Kratos cannot lift Mjolnir for various reasons; the key one being that he is not considered “worthy”.
Conclusion: The Journey Continues
God of War: Ragnarok was an epic and emotional conclusion to the Norse saga, but it was not the end of the God of War franchise. With a future brimming with potential new mythologies, characters, and storylines, the series has plenty of paths to explore. Whether it’s the sands of Egypt, the mystic forests of Celtic lore, or a spin-off focused on Atreus, the next chapter of God of War promises to be just as compelling and exciting as the previous games. The future of the franchise is bright, and fans can look forward to more adventures in the years to come.