The God of War series has solidified its status as one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, beginning its epic journey during the PS2 era. With its signature blend of thrilling action gameplay, a compelling narrative of divine revenge, and the unforgettable protagonist Kratos, the series has evolved over 20 years into a seminal action-adventure saga. The latest entries, set in the Norse realms, showcase a refined action experience, enriched lore, and a more introspective and empathetic Kratos.
With the critically acclaimed God of War Ragnarok now part of the pantheon of greats, we've crafted this guide to help fans navigate the series, whether embarking on the journey for the first time or revisiting the saga.
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How to play chronologicallyHow to play by release dateHow Many God of War Games Are There?
Sony has released 10 God of War games in the series — six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and one text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.
God of War: The Complete Playlist
Here's a comprehensive look at every God of War release since the series' inception. See All
There are also several God of War stories told through novels and comics, but this list focuses solely on the games.
Which God of War Game Should You Play First?
While God of War: Ascension is technically the first game in the series chronologically, starting with God of War (2018) is recommended for newcomers. It's available on PS4, PS5, and PC, making it an excellent entry point into the series.
### For PlayStation God of War (2018)
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These blurbs contain mild spoilers for each game, including characters, settings, and story beats.
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Ascension, the seventh game by release date but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early transformation from a Spartan demigod into the God of War. Set months after Kratos is tricked into killing his family by Ares, Ascension follows his struggle against the Furies, who seek to enforce his oath to Ares. Kratos's journey ends with him leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by his grief.
Available on: PS3 | IGN's God of War: Ascension Review
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
Kratos's next adventure unfolds in the PSP game, God of War: Chains of Olympus. Set five years before the original God of War, Kratos is tasked with rescuing Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, from the underworld. His encounter with Persephone presents him with a choice between reuniting with his daughter and fulfilling his duty to the gods.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN's God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
God of War (2005)
Set roughly 10 years after Ascension, the first God of War game begins with Kratos's attempted suicide. The story then flashes back to Kratos's final task for the gods: defeating Ares and saving Athens. With the promise of redemption, Kratos obtains Pandora's Box and kills Ares, but remains tormented by his past. Athena offers him a place on Olympus, marking his ascension to becoming the God of War.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN's God of War Review
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
Set between the first and second games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's familial ties. He journeys to Atlantis, where he meets his mortal mother and his long-lost brother Deimos. Their battle against Thanatos, the God of Death, ends in tragedy, deepening Kratos's resentment toward the Olympians.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN's God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
A 2D sidescroller for mobile devices, Betrayal is canon within the God of War universe. Kratos faces Argos, a giant sent by Hera, and is framed for its murder, further straining his relationship with the gods. The game sets up the events leading to God of War 2.
Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN's God of War: Betrayal Review
God of War 2 (2007)
In God of War 2, Kratos's quest for vengeance pits him against Zeus. After rejecting peace and continuing his rampage, Zeus kills him. With the help of Gaia, Kratos manipulates the Loom of Fate to alter his past and recruits the Titans for an assault on Olympus, setting the stage for God of War 3.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN's God of War 2 Review
God of War 3 (2010)
Continuing directly from the previous game, God of War 3 concludes Kratos's Greek saga. His battle with the Olympians culminates in a final confrontation with Zeus. Kratos ends his vengeance and sacrifices himself to release hope to humanity.
Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN's God of War 3 Review
God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
This Facebook Messenger text-adventure introduces Kratos's son Atreus and provides background on his abilities. Set before the 2018 game, it can be skipped but offers additional context to Kratos and Atreus's relationship.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
God of War (2018)
Set years after God of War 3, the 2018 game transports Kratos to Midgard in the Norse realm. Alongside Atreus, he fulfills his late wife Faye's wish to spread her ashes from the highest peak. Their journey through the Nine Realms reveals secrets about Kratos's past and Atreus's identity, leading to the onset of Fimbulwinter.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN's God of War 2018 Review
God of War Ragnarok (2022)
To avoid spoilers, this synopsis is kept brief.
Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the end of Fimbulwinter and the impending Ragnarök. The game deepens Atreus's character and explores his new powers and identities. Their quest to defeat the Asgards and survive Ragnarök leaves 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 recent titles suggests more entries are likely. The latest development is God of War: Ragnarok's PC release. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon's Prime Video, adapting the story of the 2018 game, though production faced delays in 2024.For more chronological guides, explore these series:
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