"God of War: Chronological Play Guide"

The God of War series has become one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, with its Norse-set masterpieces cementing its place in gaming history. Originating during the PS2 era, the series gained fame for its exceptional action gameplay, a compelling narrative of divine revenge, and the unforgettable protagonist, Kratos. Two decades later, God of War has evolved into a seminal action-adventure series, refining its action mechanics while deepening its lore and strengthening its narrative, now featuring an older, more empathetic Kratos.

With the release of God of War Ragnarok, which has earned its place among the greatest games ever made, we’ve crafted this comprehensive chronology to guide both new and returning players through the series from start to finish.

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How to play chronologicallyHow to play by release dateHow Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has released 10 God of War games in the series — six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and one text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Here's a comprehensive list of every God of War game released, showcasing the evolution of the series from its inception to the latest entry.

Santa Monica StudioSanta Monica StudioSony Online EntertainmentReady At Dawn StudiosBluepoint GamesSanta Monica StudioReady At Dawn StudiosReady At Dawn StudiosSCE Studios Santa MonicaSanta Monica Studio

We’re excluding the second mobile release, God of War: Mimir’s Vision, as this AR game does not contribute to the ongoing narrative but instead provides background lore from the God of War world. We’re also not including PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale in this chronology, despite its humorous inclusion in the God of War canon.

There are also several God of War stories told through novels and comics, but this list focuses solely on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While God of War: Ascension is the first game chronologically, starting with God of War (2018) is recommended. It's available on both PS4 and PS5, as well as on PC, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers to the series.

### For PlayStation God of War (2018)

16Upgrade to PS5 version through the PlayStation Store.See it at AmazonGod of War Games in Chronological Order

These summaries contain mild spoilers, including details about characters, settings, and story arcs.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game by release date but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early days as he transitions from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set months after Kratos's manipulation into killing his family by Ares, Ascension follows Kratos's refusal to honor his oath to Ares, leading to a battle against the Furies, who seek to punish his betrayal. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by grief.

Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review

2. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)

In this PSP title, Kratos embarks on a mission to rescue Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, from the underworld at Athena's request. Set midway through Kratos's ten-year servitude to the gods, the game features a confrontation with Persephone, who tempts Kratos with the chance to reunite with his daughter, forcing him to weigh the apocalyptic consequences of his actions.

Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review

3. God of War (2005)

Set a decade after Ascension, the original God of War opens with Kratos's despair-driven leap into the Aegean Sea, followed by a flashback to the events that led him to this point. Tasked by Athena to defeat Ares and save Athens, Kratos's journey to obtain Pandora’s Box and confront Ares is a grueling odyssey. Despite his victory, Kratos remains tormented, and his ascent to becoming the God of War is complete when Athena saves him and offers him a throne on Olympus.

Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review

4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)

This PSP game, set between the first and second games, explores Kratos's familial ties. In Atlantis, Kratos encounters his mortal mother and long-lost brother Deimos, kidnapped by the gods to prevent a prophecy. Their battle against the God of Death, Thanatos, ends in victory but further deepens Kratos's fury and weariness toward the Olympians.

Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile 2D sidescroller, part of the God of War canon, follows Kratos's continued rampage, which angers the gods. Framed for killing Argos, Kratos's defiance against Zeus sets the stage for God of War 2. Betrayal is no longer available on modern platforms but can be emulated.

Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review

6. God of War 2 (2007)

In God of War 2, Kratos's conflict with Zeus reaches a climax. After rejecting peace and continuing his rampage, Zeus kills Kratos, who is then revived by Gaia to alter his fate. Kratos's journey leads him to the Sisters of Fate, and after manipulating the Loom of Fate, he recruits the Titans for an assault on Mount Olympus, setting up the events of God of War 3.

Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review

7. God of War 3 (2010)

Directly following God of War 2, this game concludes Kratos's Greek saga with a final confrontation against Zeus and the Olympians. Kratos's epic journey through betrayal, alliances, and battles ends with him sacrificing himself to release hope to humanity, amidst a world in ruins.

Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review

8. God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)

God of War: A Call from the Wilds is a Facebook Messenger text-adventure that introduces Kratos's son, Atreus, and provides insight into his abilities and relationships. Set before the 2018 game, it's no longer playable but can be experienced through YouTube playthroughs.

Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)

9. God of War (2018)

Set years after God of War 3, this game transitions Kratos to the Norse realm of Midgard, where he and his son Atreus embark on a journey to fulfill Faye’s dying wish. Their travels through multiple realms and encounters with Norse mythology figures challenge Kratos as a father and reveal secrets about his past and Atreus's identity, leading to the onset of Fimbulwinter.

Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

To avoid spoilers, this summary of Ragnarok is intentionally vague.

Set three years after the 2018 game, God of War Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus through the Nine Realms during Fimbulwinter, nearing Ragnarök. The narrative focuses on Atreus's exploration of his identities and powers, alongside their quest to defeat the Asgards and survive the impending apocalypse. The game leaves room for future stories and offers a New Game Plus mode for continued play.

Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War Ragnarok Review

How to Play the God of War Games By Release Date ------------------------------------------------

God of War (2005)God of War 2 (2007)God of War: Betrayal (2007)God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)God of War 3 (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 Ragnarok (2022)What’s Next for God of War?

While Sony has yet to announce a new God of War game, the series' critical and commercial success suggests more entries are likely. The latest development is the PC port of God of War: Ragnarok, and we’ve compiled a guide to help you navigate this new release. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon’s Prime Video, though production faced delays in 2024 due to the departure of key creative staff.

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