How to Play the God of War Games in Chronological Order

The Norse saga of God of War has solidified its place among PlayStation's most iconic franchises. Beginning its reign on the PS2, the series quickly gained recognition for its thrilling action, captivating tale of revenge, and the unforgettable Spartan demigod, Kratos. Two decades later, God of War has evolved into a seminal action-adventure series, seamlessly blending refined combat with richer lore and a more compelling narrative, all anchored by an older, more empathetic Kratos.

With God of War Ragnarök achieving legendary status, we've crafted this chronological guide for those eager to experience (or revisit) the series from its beginning.

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Chronological Play Order | Release Date Play Order | How Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has released ten God of War games—six for home consoles, two for portable consoles, one mobile title, and a text adventure on Facebook Messenger.

The Complete God of War Playlist

Here's every God of War game since the dawn of the gods. See All!

We're excluding God of War: Mimir's Vision (a mobile AR game offering background lore) and PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale (despite its inclusion in the God of War canon). This list focuses solely on the main games.

Numerous God of War stories exist in novels and comics, but this chronology covers only the games.

Where to Begin Your God of War Journey?

While God of War: Ascension is chronologically first, God of War (2018) serves as the ideal starting point. Available on PS4, PS5, and PC, it offers a fantastic introduction to the series.

God of War Games in Chronological Order

(Note: These descriptions contain minor spoilers.)

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, chronologically first, depicts Kratos's early transformation from Spartan demigod to God of War. Months after killing his family under Ares' manipulation, Kratos defies his oath, leading to conflict with the Furies. He ultimately escapes his oath, leaving his Spartan past behind.

Available on: PS3 | IGN Review: God of War: Ascension Review

2. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)

Taking place five years before the first God of War, Kratos serves the gods, haunted by visions. He rescues Helios from Persephone, wrestling with a potential reunion with his daughter and the consequences.

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

3. God of War (2005)

Ten years after Ascension, Kratos, consumed by grief, attempts suicide. The game reveals his past: a Spartan captain who made a pact with Ares, leading to his family's death. He is tasked by Athena to defeat Ares, obtaining Pandora's Box and ultimately becoming the God of War.

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

4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)

Set between the first two main games, Kratos confronts his past, traveling to Atlantis to encounter his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos. He battles Thanatos, the God of Death, but finds little solace in victory.

Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN Review: God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile game shows Kratos defying the gods, culminating in his framing for the murder of Argos and a subsequent confrontation with Zeus's messenger.

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

6. God of War II (2007)

Kratos battles Zeus, only to be killed. Aided by Gaia, he manipulates the Sisters of Fate, recruiting Titans for his war against Olympus.

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

7. God of War III (2010)

The climactic battle against Zeus and the Olympians concludes. Kratos, betrayed again, descends into the Underworld, ultimately defeating Zeus and sacrificing himself to bring hope to humanity.

Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN Review: God of War 3 Review

8. God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)

A Facebook Messenger text adventure introducing Atreus and providing backstory on his abilities and relationships.

Available on: N/A (previously Facebook Messenger)

9. God of War (2018)

Years after God of War III, Kratos and Atreus journey through the Norse realms to fulfill Faye's dying wish, encountering various Norse figures. Kratos struggles with fatherhood and hidden truths.

Available on: PS5, PS4, PC | IGN Review: God of War 2018 Review

10. God of War Ragnarök (2022)

Three years after 2018's game, Kratos and Atreus face Ragnarök, traversing the Nine Realms and confronting Odin and Thor. The story focuses on their personal quests and the fight for survival.

Available on: PS5, PS4, PC | IGN Review: God of War Ragnarök Review

How to Play the God of War Games By Release Date

God of War (2005) | God of War II (2007) | God of War: Betrayal (2007) | God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008) | God of War III (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 Ragnarök (2022)

What's Next for God of War?

While Sony hasn't announced a new God of War game, the success of 2018's title and Ragnarök suggests future installments are likely. A God of War TV series is also in development for Amazon Prime Video.

Interested in other chronological game guides? Check out:

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