How to Play the God of War Games in Chronological Order

The Norse-saga of God of War has secured its place as a PlayStation icon. Emerging in the PS2 era, the series initially captivated players with its thrilling action and a compelling tale of revenge, featuring the iconic Spartan demigod, Kratos. Two decades later, God of War has evolved into a seminal action-adventure series, seamlessly blending refined combat with richer lore and a more nuanced narrative, anchored by an older, more empathetic Kratos.

With God of War Ragnarök achieving legendary status, we've compiled this chronological guide for those eager to experience (or revisit) the series from its beginning.

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Chronological Order | Release Order | Number of God of War Games

Sony has released ten God of War games – six for home consoles, two for handhelds, one mobile title, and a text adventure on Facebook Messenger.

The Complete God of War Playlist

Here's every God of War release since the dawn of the gods. See All!

We're excluding God of War: Mimir's Vision (a mobile AR game) and PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, as they don't significantly contribute to the main narrative. This list focuses solely on the core games.

Numerous God of War stories exist in novels and comics, but this chronology covers only the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While chronologically, God of War: Ascension comes first, God of War (2018) serves as the ideal starting point. Its availability on PS4, PS5, and PC makes it incredibly accessible for newcomers.

God of War Games in Chronological Order

(Note: These descriptions contain minor spoilers.)

1. God of War: Ascension (2013): A prequel exploring Kratos's early days and his descent into becoming the God of War. It depicts his struggle with the Furies after breaking his oath to Ares.

2. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008): Set during Kratos's servitude to the gods, this story involves rescuing Helios and a moral dilemma involving a potential reunion with his daughter.

3. God of War (2005): Kratos's journey to defeat Ares, fueled by his desire for redemption, while the game also reveals his tragic past and his pact with Ares.

4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010): Kratos's quest to find his brother, Deimos, and confront the God of Death, further shaping his character and fueling his rage.

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007): A mobile game depicting Kratos's continued defiance of the gods, leading to conflict with Hera and setting the stage for God of War II. (May require an emulator to play).

6. God of War II (2007): Kratos's conflict with Zeus, his betrayal, and his subsequent alliance with Gaia to challenge Olympus.

7. God of War III (2010): The climactic battle against the Olympians, resolving Kratos's war with Zeus and bringing his Greek saga to a close.

8. God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018): A Facebook Messenger text adventure introducing Atreus and providing backstory. (No longer playable, but playthroughs are available online).

9. God of War (2018): Kratos and Atreus's journey through the Norse realms, exploring fatherhood, hidden truths, and the prelude to Ragnarök.

10. God of War Ragnarök (2022): The continuation of Kratos and Atreus's adventures as they face Ragnarök and explore their identities amidst the Norse apocalypse.

How to Play by Release Date:

God of War (2005), God of War II (2007), God of War: Betrayal (2007), God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008), God of War III (2010), God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010), God of War: Ascension (2013), God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018), God of War (2018), God of War Ragnarök (2022)

What's Next for God of War?

While Sony hasn't announced a new God of War game, the success of the recent titles strongly suggests future installments. A God of War TV series is also in development for Amazon Prime Video.

Interested in other chronological game guides? Check out Assassin's Creed, Halo, Batman Arkham, Resident Evil, and Pokémon.