God of War: Chronological Play Guide

The God of War series has become a cornerstone of PlayStation's gaming legacy, starting from the PS2 era and evolving into one of gaming's premier action-adventure franchises. Initially recognized for its exhilarating action, the saga of Kratos, the Spartan demigod, has captivated players with its tale of divine revenge. Over the span of two decades, the series has matured, intertwining its refined action with deeper narrative elements and a more empathetic portrayal of an aging Kratos.

With the release of God of War Ragnarok, which has secured its place among the greatest video games, we present a comprehensive chronology for those eager to embark on or revisit the epic journey of Kratos.

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• How to play chronologically
• How to play by release date
• How Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has enriched the gaming world with **10 God of War games** spread across various platforms: six for home consoles, two for portable consoles, one for mobile devices, and a unique text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Explore the entire saga of Kratos with this detailed list of all God of War releases since the series' inception. Each game's entry is accompanied by a brief overview to help you understand its significance within the franchise.

We have excluded God of War: Mimir’s Vision, an AR mobile game, from this chronology as it does not contribute to the main storyline but rather enriches the lore. Similarly, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is omitted, despite its inclusion in the God of War canon.

Additionally, the God of War universe extends to novels and comics, though this guide focuses exclusively on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While God of War: Ascension is the chronological starting point of the series, for new players, we recommend beginning with God of War (2018). This entry is accessible on both PS4 and PS5, as well as PC, making it an ideal starting point for newcomers to the franchise.

For PlayStation God of War (2018)

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

These descriptions include mild spoilers to provide context on characters, settings, and plot points.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game in the series by release but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early days as he transforms from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set shortly after being tricked by Ares into killing his family, Kratos's refusal to honor his oath to Ares triggers the Furies' pursuit, leading to his eventual departure from Sparta, haunted by his past.

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

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

In this PSP-exclusive title, Kratos is halfway through his decade-long servitude to the gods. Tasked with rescuing Helios from the underworld, Kratos confronts Queen Persephone, who tempts him with a chance to reunite with his daughter, challenging his loyalty to the gods.

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

3. God of War (2005)

The game that started it all, set 10 years after Ascension, follows Kratos as he nears the end of his servitude. Tasked with defeating Ares to save Athens, Kratos retrieves Pandora’s Box and confronts his inner demons, ultimately becoming the God of War himself.

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

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

Taking place between the original God of War and its sequel, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's familial ties, leading him to Atlantis where he reconnects with his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos. The game culminates in a battle against Thanatos, further fueling Kratos's rage against the gods.

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, canon to the series, sees Kratos framed for killing Argos, causing further tension with Olympus. As Kratos defies Zeus's messenger, the game sets the stage for God of War 2, though it's not available on modern platforms.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007)

Kratos's conflict escalates as he battles Zeus, who kills him after Kratos refuses peace. With Gaia's help, Kratos manipulates time to return to his moment of death, setting the stage for an epic confrontation with Olympus, culminating in a war led by the Titans.

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

7. God of War 3 (2010)

Continuing directly from God of War 2, Kratos's Greek saga concludes with a devastating war against the Olympians. Betrayed once more, Kratos teams up with an ally to defeat Zeus, ending his vengeance and sacrificing himself to spread hope to mankind.

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

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

This text-adventure on Facebook Messenger introduces Kratos's son, Atreus, and sheds light on his abilities and relationships, set before the events of God of War 2018. Though no longer playable, its story is not crucial to the main narrative.

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

9. God of War (2018)

Years after God of War 3, Kratos and his son Atreus embark on a journey to fulfill Faye's dying wish in the Norse realm of Midgard. Their adventure through multiple realms tests Kratos's fatherhood and reveals truths about their identities, culminating in the onset of Fimbulwinter.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok focuses on Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the impending Ragnarök. The narrative delves deeper into Atreus's identity and powers, while Kratos confronts his past and future, leaving the series open for further exploration.

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

• 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?

Although Sony has not officially announced a new God of War game, the success of the 2018 reboot and Ragnarok suggests more is on the horizon. The PC port of God of War Ragnarok is a recent development, and a TV series based on the 2018 game is in the works for Amazon’s Prime Video, despite facing production challenges.

For fans of chronological guides, explore similar journeys in other beloved franchises:

• Assassin's Creed Games in Order
• Halo Games in Order
• Batman Arkham Games in Order
• Resident Evil Games in Order
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