"God of War: A Chronological Play Guide"

The God of War series, a cornerstone of PlayStation's iconic franchises, has captivated gamers since its debut on the PS2. From its origins, the series has evolved from a tale of divine revenge led by the Spartan demigod Kratos into a seminal action-adventure saga. Over the last two decades, God of War has refined its action gameplay, deepened its lore, and crafted a compelling narrative, especially with an older, more empathetic Kratos at its helm. The latest installment, God of War Ragnarok, has further solidified the series' place among the gaming elite. For fans new and old, we present a comprehensive chronology of the series to guide your journey through Kratos' epic saga.

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

Sony has brought us a total of 10 God of War games across various platforms: six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and a text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Below is a detailed list of every God of War game released, starting from the series' inception. See All!

We've omitted God of War: Mimir’s Vision, a mobile AR game that enriches the series' lore but doesn't contribute to the main storyline. Also excluded is PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, despite its inclusion in the God of War canon. Note that the series also spans into novels and comics, but our focus here is solely on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While God of War: Ascension marks the chronological start, for newcomers, God of War (2018) is an ideal entry point. It's accessible on PS4, PS5, and PC, offering a fresh start to Kratos' journey in the Norse realms.

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

The following descriptions contain mild spoilers regarding characters, settings, and story elements.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game by release but first in the timeline, delves into Kratos's early days as a Spartan demigod, exploring his transformation into the God of War. Set months after Ares manipulates Kratos into killing his family, Ascension follows Kratos's refusal to honor his oath to Ares, leading to a confrontation with the Furies. The game ends with Kratos leaving his home, still haunted by his actions.

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 Sun God, amidst his servitude to the gods. The game explores Kratos's struggle with his past and the temptation offered by Persephone to reunite with his daughter, setting the stage for his ongoing journey.

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

3. God of War (2005)

This game introduces Kratos's tragic backstory and his quest to defeat Ares after being promised forgiveness for his past sins. The narrative weaves through Kratos's rise to becoming the God of War, culminating in his acceptance of 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)

Set between the first and second games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's familial ties, reuniting him with his mother and brother Deimos. Their battle against Thanatos concludes with Kratos further estranged from 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 game, part of the canon, sees Kratos framed for the murder of Argos, escalating tensions with Olympus. Though no longer available on modern platforms, its story sets the stage for God of War 2.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007)

In this sequel, Kratos's feud with the gods culminates in a battle with Zeus. With the help of Gaia, Kratos seeks to alter his fate, leading to a climactic assault on Mount Olympus.

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

7. God of War 3 (2010)

Following directly from the previous game, God of War 3 sees Kratos's final battle against Zeus and the Olympians. His journey ends with a sacrifice to bring hope to mankind, closing his Greek saga.

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 his mother Faye, setting the stage for the 2018 game. Though no longer playable, its narrative adds depth to Kratos's family dynamics.

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

9. God of War (2018)

Years after the Greek saga, Kratos finds himself in the Norse realm of Midgard, embarking on a journey with his son Atreus to spread Faye's ashes. Their adventure unfolds across the Nine Realms, culminating in the onset of Fimbulwinter, a precursor to Ragnarök.

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 follows Kratos and Atreus through the end of Fimbulwinter and into the Norse apocalypse. Their quest to survive Ragnarök explores themes of identity and destiny, leaving room for future stories.

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 not announced a new God of War game, the success of the 2018 title and Ragnarok suggests more adventures await. The PC port of Ragnarok is a recent development, and a God of War TV series is in the works for Amazon’s Prime Video, set to adapt the 2018 game's story. Despite production challenges, the future looks bright for Kratos and company.

For fans eager to explore other series in chronological order, consider diving into:

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