The God of War series has solidified its status as one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, originating during the PS2 era and evolving over two decades into a seminal action-adventure saga. Initially known for its gripping action gameplay and the story of Kratos, the Spartan demigod driven by divine revenge, the series has matured with deeper lore and a more compelling narrative centered around an older, more empathetic Kratos. The latest installment, God of War Ragnarok, has rightfully earned its place among the greatest video games, prompting fans to explore or revisit the entire saga from the beginning.
With Sony releasing a total of 10 God of War games across various platforms, including six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and a text-adventure on Facebook Messenger, there's a rich history to delve into. Below is a comprehensive chronology of the series, offering insights into how to experience the saga either by chronological order or by release date.
How to Play Chronologically
While God of War: Ascension is technically the first game chronologically, for new players, starting with God of War (2018) is highly recommended. Available on PS4, PS5, and PC, this game serves as an excellent entry point into the series, introducing the Norse mythology setting and Kratos's journey with his son, Atreus.
How to Play by Release Date
For those interested in following the series as it was released, the order is as follows:
- 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)
God of War: The Complete Playlist
Here's a detailed look at every God of War release, complete with brief descriptions and availability:
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Ascension, the first game chronologically, explores Kratos's early days as a Spartan demigod, detailing his transformation into the God of War after being manipulated by Ares. Kratos's refusal to honor his oath to Ares sets off a chain of events involving the antagonistic Furies. The game concludes with Kratos 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)
Set halfway through Kratos's ten-year servitude to the gods, Chains of Olympus follows Kratos as he rescues the Titan God of the Sun, Helios, from the underworld. The game delves into Kratos's internal struggle between his desire to reunite with his daughter and his duty to the gods.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
God of War (2005)
The original God of War begins with Kratos's attempted suicide, flashing back to explain his journey. Tasked by Athena to defeat Ares and save Athens, Kratos's quest leads him to Pandora’s Box. The game ends with Kratos ascending to become the God of War after defeating Ares.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
Taking place between the first and second games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's quest to find his mother and brother, Deimos, in Atlantis. The game concludes with Kratos growing more disillusioned with 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 sees Kratos framed for killing Argos and continuing his conflict with the gods. Though no longer available on modern platforms, it can be experienced via a Java emulator.
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 war against Olympus reaches a climax when Zeus kills him. Revived by Gaia, Kratos manipulates the Loom of Fate to change the past and recruit the Titans for his war against the gods, setting up the events of God of War 3.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review
God of War 3 (2010)
Picking up directly after God of War 2, the third installment concludes Kratos's Greek saga with a final confrontation against Zeus. Kratos sacrifices himself to release hope to mankind, ending his cycle of vengeance.
Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review
God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
A text-adventure released on Facebook Messenger, A Call from the Wilds introduces Atreus and explores his extrasensory abilities and relationships before the events of God of War (2018). Although no longer playable, it can be watched on YouTube.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
God of War (2018)
Set years after God of War 3, this game moves Kratos to the Norse realm of Midgard, where he and his son, Atreus, fulfill Faye's dying wish by spreading her ashes. Their journey through the Nine Realms introduces Norse mythology and Kratos's struggles with fatherhood and his past.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review
God of War Ragnarok (2022)
Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok continues Kratos and Atreus's journey through the Nine Realms as they face the impending Ragnarök. The game explores Atreus's newfound identities and powers while leaving room for future stories.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War Ragnarok Review
What's Next for God of War?
While Sony has yet to announce a new God of War game, the success of the 2018 installment and Ragnarok suggests more entries are likely. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon's Prime Video, adapting the story of the 2018 game. Despite production challenges, fans eagerly await further developments.
For those interested in similar chronological guides, explore the series order for Assassin's Creed, Halo, Batman Arkham, Resident Evil, and Pokemon games.
