The God of War franchise, a titan in the action-adventure genre, boasts a compelling history filled with brutal combat, mythological tales, and iconic characters. But for newcomers or those simply curious, a question often arises: just how many God of War games are there? The answer isn't as simple as a single number, as it depends on how you define "game." Let's delve into the complete history of Kratos's bloody journey.
Mainline God of War Games
The core God of War experience centers around a series of numbered titles, each building upon the narrative and expanding the lore. These are the main installments that form the backbone of the franchise:
- God of War (2005): This PlayStation 2 title launched the entire saga, introducing Kratos and his bloody revenge against the Olympian gods.
- God of War II (2007): Kratos's wrath continues on the PlayStation 2, pitting him against even greater foes and shaping his destiny.
- God of War III (2010): The epic conclusion to the Greek saga (for a time!) on the PlayStation 3, featuring a massive scale and unforgettable boss battles.
- God of War (2018): A soft reboot, shifting the setting to Norse mythology and offering a fresh perspective on Kratos while maintaining the series' core gameplay. This is a critical turning point in the franchise.
- God of War Ragnarök (2022): The highly-anticipated sequel to the 2018 title, continuing Kratos and Atreus's journey through the Norse realms.
Spin-offs and Related Titles
Beyond the main numbered entries, the God of War franchise has branched out into other related media, blurring the lines of what constitutes a "game" in the franchise:
- God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008): A prequel for the PlayStation Portable, exploring Kratos's past before the events of the first main game.
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010): Another PlayStation Portable prequel, detailing more of Kratos's backstory and his relationship with his family.
- God of War: Ascension (2013): A PlayStation 3 prequel that explores events before God of War.
While these spin-offs significantly contribute to the overall lore, they are often considered secondary to the mainline numbered entries.
How Many Games is Too Many?
The number of God of War games available depends on your definition: If you count only the main numbered titles, you have five. If you include the spin-offs, the total jumps to eight. Each entry provides a unique experience within the wider narrative, offering players an extensive and richly detailed world of mythology, war, and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the chronological order of the God of War games?
The chronological order of God of War games, starting with the earliest events, is: Chains of Olympus, Ghost of Sparta, Ascension, God of War (2005), God of War II, God of War III, God of War (2018), and God of War Ragnarök.
Are the God of War games connected?
Yes, the God of War games are interconnected. The spin-offs, while prequels, build upon the core story presented in the mainline games. The 2018 game and Ragnarök represent a new chapter in the broader saga, but elements of the Greek mythology storyline persist.
Which God of War game should I play first?
While you can technically play them in chronological order (as described above), many suggest starting with God of War (2018). It offers a fresh narrative that's easily accessible to newcomers, while still hinting at the events of the earlier games. However, experienced players might enjoy starting with the very first God of War to experience the complete evolution of Kratos.
This comprehensive overview should provide a clear understanding of the extent and interconnectedness of the God of War franchise. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, this journey through mythology and vengeance promises hours of thrilling gameplay.
