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Embarking on the epic journey of the God of War series can be daunting, especially with its rich tapestry spanning both the Greek and Norse Sagas. Newcomers might feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of games, but fear not—this guide is here to help you navigate the best path through Kratos' legendary saga, ensuring you don't miss out on any of the thrilling moments.
All God Of War Games In The Series
There are 10 God of War games in total, but you can focus on the essential eight for a complete experience. Two games, God of War: Betrayal (2007) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018), can be skipped without losing significant story or gameplay. The core titles that trace Kratos' journey are:
- God of War 1
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarok
Most Popular Orders To Play The God Of War Games
When diving into a series as expansive as God of War, you have two primary approaches: release order or chronological order. Each method offers a unique experience, especially considering the prequels that enrich the main trilogy.
Release Order
Playing in release order is the most straightforward approach, allowing you to experience the series as it unfolded for long-time fans. However, keep in mind that some titles, like Chains of Olympus and Ghost of Sparta, may not match the production quality of the main trilogy. This order also showcases the evolution of gameplay mechanics and design improvements over time.
The release order is as follows:
- God of War 1 (2005)
- God of War 2 (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 (2018)
- God of War Ragnarok (2022)
- God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)
Chronological Order
If you're more interested in the narrative flow, playing in chronological order is ideal. Be prepared for some variation in graphics and gameplay quality as you move between different titles. The first game in this order, Ascension, is often considered the weakest, so don't let it color your view of the entire series.
The chronological order is as follows:
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War 1
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarok
- God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla (Free DLC)
Best Order To Play The God Of War Games
While opinions vary among fans, the following order balances narrative coherence with gameplay enjoyment, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for new players:
- God of War 1
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarok
- God of War Ragnarok Valhalla Mode
Begin with the original God of War, then delve into its prequels, Chains of Olympus and Ghost of Sparta, before moving on to God of War 2 and 3. After completing the Greek Saga with Ascension, transition to the Norse Saga with God of War (2018), followed by Ragnarok and its Valhalla DLC.
Note that Ascension is often seen as the weakest link. If it's not to your liking, consider skipping it and catching up on its story via a YouTube recap. However, its over-the-top action might still be worth experiencing.
Alternate Order To Play God Of War Games
If the older games feel dated, there's an alternative approach: start with the Norse Saga before exploring the Greek Saga. This method offers a fresh entry point with improved combat, stunning visuals, and a mysterious backdrop to Kratos' past.
The alternate order is as follows:
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarok
- God of War Ragnarok Valhalla Mode
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War 1
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
