Guide To Playing God Of War In Chronological Order (2024)

Chronologically, the God of War franchise is unlike anything seen before when it comes to melding fiction and history. Originally taking place during the Greek Empire before moving to the age of Vikings, God of War uses the backdrop of mythology to push the limits of what was possible and how the Gods could've affected it. But while following Kratos' story, what is the best spot to begin playing?

This article will discuss the chronological order needed to understand the full story of God of War. Because the game isn't parallel to any realistic timeframe, the order is in relation to some of the biggest entries in the series set in the Greek and Viking ages. By following the order, players can experience the full and tragic story of Kratos and his future family leading up to God of War: Ragnarök.

Updated on June 12, 2024 by Antonio Samson: God of War has one of the most intriguing stories for players to experience. However, as a series as old and rich in lore, it can be hard to figure out where to start Kratos' story. This article has been updated to provide more information on each game and to meet CBR's editorial and formatting standards.

1 Ascension Is Set 10 Years Before God Of War

A Prelude to Kratos' Vengeance

God of War: Ascension marks the beginning of Kratos' quest for vengeance. The story unfolds only six months after Ares, the God of War, tricks Kratos into murdering his own wife and daughter. Tormented by his actions, Kratos vows to break free from Ares' control.

The game chronicles his battles against the Furies, mythical beings sent to capture him and punish his rebellion. Through intense combat and emotional turmoil, Kratos eventually severs his bond with Ares, setting the stage for his relentless pursuit of retribution and freedom.

2 Chains Of Olympus Details Kratos' Service To Olympus

Kratos Battles in the Underworld

During the decade of his service to the Gods, Chains of Olympus follows Kratos as he faces the Persian army in the city of Attica. His journey leads him to the Underworld, where he encounters an opportunity to reunite with his deceased daughter in the Elysian Fields.

However, confronted with the choice between personal happiness and a higher purpose, Kratos saves the world, solidifying his role as the Ghost of Sparta. This installment delves into the complexities of his character, highlighting his inner struggles and unwavering sense of duty.

3 God Of War Actually Falls Third In The Timeline

The Rise of the Ghost of Sparta

The original God of War introduces players to Kratos and sets the foundation for his epic saga. In this game, Kratos aids the Goddess Athena in her quest to defeat Ares, seeking redemption for his past sins. The narrative reveals the gods' manipulative nature as they use Kratos for their own ends.

Despite acquiring the Blades of Athena and ascending to the status of the new God of War, Kratos' journey is far from over. The game lays the groundwork for the complex relationship between Kratos and the Olympian deities.

4 Ghost Of Sparta Explores Kratos' Time As God Of War

Kratos Unveils Family Secrets

Ghost of Spartaprovides a more introspective look at Kratos' past and his time as the God of War. The game introduces key characters, such as his mother Callisto and brother Deimos, while also depicting the fall of Atlantis. Players gain deeper insights into Kratos' backstory and his burdens through these events.

Notably, the game reveals that Athena is Kratos' sibling, adding another layer of complexity to his tumultuous relationship with the Gods. This installment is pivotal in understanding Kratos' motivations and the familial ties that shape his destiny.

5 In God Of War: Betrayal, Kratos Faces Punishment

Kratos Defies Zues' Orders

Although only a mobile game, God of War: Betrayal plays a crucial role in Kratos' narrative. As the first instance where Kratos oversteps his divine boundaries, the story follows his pursuit of an assassin who threatens his rule. Defying Zeus' orders to cease his violent rampage, Kratos kills Hermes' son, Ceryx.

This act of defiance marks the beginning of Zeus' mistrust and the subsequent punishment that Kratos must endure. The game highlights the escalating tension between Kratos and the Olympian Gods, setting the stage for future conflicts.

6 God of War II Takes Place 13 Years After The Original

The Betrayal and War Against Olympus

God of War II continues the saga with Zeus' betrayal of Kratos, propelling the latter on a quest to alter his fate and confront the King of the Gods. In this sequel, Kratos forms an alliance with the Titans and declares war on Olympus.

The game features significant events, including the death of Athena and the revelation that Zeus is Kratos' father. These developments intensify the already volatile relationship between Kratos and the Olympian pantheon, driving the narrative toward an epic showdown that reshapes the mythological landscape.

The Fall of the Olympian Gods

God of War III is the climactic conclusion to Kratos' war against the Olympian Gods. The game begins with Kratos' assault on Mount Olympus, aided by the Titans. Throughout the game, Kratos confronts and defeats several major Greek Gods, only to face betrayal from the Titans themselves.

His final confrontation with Zeus brings closure to his quest for vengeance, leading to a moment of self-forgiveness and the start of a new path. The game culminates the themes and conflicts that have defined Kratos' journey, offering a powerful resolution to his story.

8 A Call From The Wilds Is A Prelude To God Of War (2018)

Atreus' First Adventure Begins

A Call from the Wilds is a text-based prequel available on Facebook Messenger that introduces Kratos' son, Atreus, as the central character. The story follows Atreus on his first adventure, providing a glimpse into the new setting and dynamics between father and son.

This brief narrative sets the stage for the deeper exploration of their relationship in God of War (2018). Through player choices, the game teases the challenges and bonds that will be further developed in the main title, offering a taste of the emotional journey to come.

9 God Of War (2018) Is A Father/Son Journey

A New Chapter in a Mythological Norse Landscape

Since God of War III, Kratos has found a new home, taken a new wife, and had a son, Atreus. After the death of his second wife, Kratos embarks on a journey with Atreus to fulfill her final wish of scattering her ashes from the highest peak in the realm.

Their adventure brings them into conflict with Norse Gods and tests their bond. The game shifts from the chaotic action of previous entries to a more nuanced and emotional narrative, exploring themes of fatherhood, legacy, and redemption as Kratos faces new challenges in a foreign land.

10 God of War: Ragnarök Follows Kratos Through The Nine Realms

The Prophesied End Approaches

God of War: Ragnarök continues the journey of Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the impending doom of Fimbulwinter and the prophesied Ragnarök. With new and formidable adversaries such as Thor and Freya, the father-son duo must traverse the nine realms, facing numerous trials that test their strength and resolve.

This installment delves deeper into the rich tapestry of Norse mythology, pushing the characters to their limits as they confront the end of the world. The game is an epic conclusion to the Norse saga, filled with intense battles and emotional moments that define the God of War series.

God of War

God of War is an action-adventure gamefranchisecreated by David Jaffe at Sony's Santa Monica Studio.

Created by

David Jaffe

First TV Show

God of War

Character(s)

Kratos

Video Game(s)

God of War , God of War Ragnarok , God of War 2 , God of War: Chains of Olympus , God of War: Betrayal , God of War: Ghost of Sparta , God of War: Ascension