The God of War franchise, a cornerstone of action-adventure gaming, boasts a rich history filled with brutal combat, mythical creatures, and compelling narratives. But just how many games are there? The answer isn't as straightforward as a simple number, as it depends on how you define "game." Let's break it down.
Mainline God of War Games
There are currently eight mainline God of War games, each contributing significantly to the overarching narrative and expanding the lore of Kratos's journey. These are:
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God of War (2005): This title launched the franchise, introducing players to Kratos's rage and setting the stage for his epic conflict with the Greek gods.
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God of War II (2007): Continuing Kratos's bloody rebellion, this game further cemented the series' status as a gaming powerhouse.
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God of War III (2010): A climactic showdown against Zeus and the Olympian gods, this installment brought the Greek saga to a thrilling conclusion.
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God of War: Ascension (2013): A prequel exploring Kratos's descent into darkness before the events of the original game.
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God of War (2018): A critically acclaimed reboot that shifted the setting to Norse mythology, introducing a new era for Kratos and his son, Atreus.
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God of War Ragnarök (2022): The highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 reboot, concluding the Norse saga and offering a satisfying continuation of Kratos and Atreus's journey.
Spin-offs and Related Titles
Beyond the mainline entries, several spin-offs and related titles broaden the God of War universe:
- God of War: Chains of Olympus (PSP, 2008): A prequel focusing on Kratos's servitude to Ares.
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta (PSP, 2010): Another prequel detailing Kratos's past and his family's tragic fate.
These handheld titles, while not as expansive as the console games, offer valuable context and background to Kratos's character arc.
How Many Games Should I Play? A Suggested Path
For newcomers, jumping in with the 2018 God of War is an excellent starting point. It's a standalone story with a compelling narrative that doesn't require prior knowledge of the Greek saga. From there, you can explore the earlier games (perhaps starting with God of War III for the Greek mythology climax) or continue directly with God of War Ragnarök. The PSP games are optional but can provide deeper insight into Kratos's motivations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the order of the God of War games?
The chronological order, starting with the earliest events, is: Chains of Olympus, Ghost of Sparta, Ascension, God of War, God of War II, God of War III, God of War (2018), and God of War Ragnarök. However, the story's impact is arguably best experienced starting with the 2018 reboot.
Are there any other God of War games planned?
While no official announcements have been made regarding further mainline entries, the popularity of God of War Ragnarök strongly suggests future installments are likely. Stay tuned for updates from Sony and Santa Monica Studio.
Which God of War game is the best?
This is entirely subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, the 2018 God of War and its sequel, Ragnarök, are consistently praised for their exceptional gameplay, storytelling, and character development. The original God of War trilogy remains beloved for its visceral combat and epic scale.
This comprehensive guide should help you navigate the world of God of War and discover which titles best suit your gaming interests. Happy gaming!
