This guide explores the optimal order for playing the God of War games, catering to both newcomers and seasoned fans. The series boasts a rich history, spanning the Greek and Norse sagas, making the choice of starting point crucial.
All God of War Games (Essential Titles Only):
The series includes ten games, but only eight are essential to the overarching narrative. We'll exclude God of War: Betrayal (mobile) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (Facebook).
- God of War 1
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarök
Popular Play Orders:
Two primary approaches exist: release order and chronological order.
Release Order: This mirrors the games' original release dates, offering a historical perspective on the series' evolution. However, note that earlier titles may have lower production values than the main trilogy.
- God of War 1 (2005)
- God of War 2 (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 (2018)
- God of War Ragnarök (2022)
- God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)
Chronological Order: This follows the storyline's timeline, prioritizing narrative coherence. However, be aware of potential inconsistencies in gameplay and graphics across different titles.
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War 1
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarök
- God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla (Free DLC)
Recommended Play Order:
This balanced approach considers both narrative flow and gameplay experience.
- God of War 1
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarök
- God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode
This order strategically places prequels before their corresponding main entries, ensuring a smoother narrative transition. God of War: Ascension, while the weakest entry, is included for narrative completeness. Consider skipping it and watching a summary if the gameplay proves too challenging.
Alternative Play Order (Norse Saga First):
This unconventional approach prioritizes modern gameplay and visuals. Starting with the Norse Saga offers a more polished experience, but may spoil some elements of the Greek Saga's narrative.
- God of War (2018)
- God of War Ragnarök
- God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode
- God of War: Ascension
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- God of War 1
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta
- God of War 2
- God of War 3
Ultimately, the best order depends on individual preferences. This guide offers various options to help you embark on your epic God of War journey.