Image credit: Ninja Theory
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Developer: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 2017 | Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC
For those who enjoyed God of War's Norse mythology and character-driven storytelling, Hellblade delivers a psychologically intense journey. Protagonist Senua battles both external foes and her own traumatic visions during a quest inspired by Norse legends. The game shares God of War's cinematic single-shot camera technique and emotionally powerful performances, earning similar critical acclaim.
The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2
Image credit: Sony
Developer: Naughty Dog | Release Date: Various (2013-2022) | Platforms: PlayStation, PC
While differing in setting, these masterful narrative experiences match God of War's exceptional storytelling quality. The evolving relationship between Joel and Ellie echoes Kratos and Atreus' dynamic, with both stories exploring difficult parental relationships in dangerous worlds. The games set similar standards for cinematic quality in gaming.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Release Date: November 2020 | Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
This massive Viking adventure shares God of War's Norse mythology roots while offering deeper RPG mechanics. Players familiar with gods like Odin and Thor from God of War will encounter alternative interpretations here. The brutal melee combat and mythological elements make this a natural recommendation for Kratos fans.
Jotun
Image credit: Thunder Lotus Games
Developer: Thunder Lotus Games | Release Date: 2015 | Platforms: Multiplatform
This beautifully hand-drawn indie title offers a stylized take on Norse mythology through epic boss battles against towering giants. While mechanically simpler than God of War, it captures the mythological essence with appearances from familiar figures like Thor and Odin. Perfect for those who enjoyed God of War's mythological references.
Rise of the Tomb Raider
Image credit: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios
Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Release Date: November 2015 | Platforms: Multiplatform
Lara Croft's adventure shares God of War's satisfying blend of combat, exploration and puzzle-solving in intricately designed environments. The semi-open world structure and focus on skill-based progression will feel familiar to God of War players, despite the different tone and setting.
Star Wars Jedi Series
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Release Date: 2019/2023 | Platforms: Multiplatform
Directed by God of War 3's Stig Asmussen, these action-adventure games apply God of War's formula to the Star Wars universe. The combat system emphasizes timing and skill similar to God of War's axe mechanics, while the world design follows comparable exploration principles. Ideal for those who enjoyed God of War's gameplay fundamentals.
The Walking Dead: Season 1
Developer: Telltale Games | Release Date: April 2012 | Platforms: Multiplatform
While completely different in gameplay, Telltale's masterpiece shares God of War's emotional depth in exploring a surrogate father-daughter relationship. The narrative focus on protection, morality and difficult choices resonates similarly, making this an unexpected but compelling recommendation for story-driven God of War fans.
Which Game Matches God of War Best?
Vote for your favorite alternative to God of War in our poll, or share your own recommendations below. For newcomers to the series, we recommend checking out our guide to playing the God of War games in chronological order.
Every God of War Review
Explore IGN's complete reviews of every God of War title in the franchise's history.
