"God of War Games: Chronological Play Order Guide"

The *God of War* series has solidified its status as one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, captivating gamers since its inception during the PS2 era. Known for its thrilling action gameplay, the saga of divine vengeance, and the unforgettable protagonist, Kratos, the Spartan demigod, *God of War* has evolved over 20 years into a pinnacle of action-adventure gaming. This evolution has seen the series refine its action mechanics while delving deeper into its lore and narrative, with an older, more empathetic Kratos at the helm.

With *God of War Ragnarok* earning its place among the greatest video games, we present a comprehensive chronology for fans eager to experience the series from the beginning or revisit their favorite moments.

Jump to:

• How to play chronologically
• How to play by release date
• How Many God of War Games Are There?

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Sony has released a total of **10 God of War games** in the series. These span across six home console releases, two portable console games, one mobile game, and a unique text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Here's an overview of every *God of War* release, marking the journey from the dawn of the gods to the latest adventures. See All!

Santa Monica Studio

Santa Monica Studio

Sony Online Entertainment

Ready At Dawn Studios

Bluepoint Games

Santa Monica Studio

Ready At Dawn Studios

Ready At Dawn Studios

SCE Studios Santa Monica

Santa Monica Studio

We've excluded *God of War: Mimir's Vision*, a mobile AR game that enriches the lore without advancing the main storyline, and *PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale*, despite its amusing nod to the *God of War* canon. Additionally, while there are novels and comics that expand on the *God of War* universe, this guide focuses solely on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While *God of War: Ascension* marks the chronological beginning of the series, starting with *God of War (2018)* is advisable for new players. It's accessible on PS4, PS5, and PC, serving as an excellent entry point into the saga.

For PlayStation God of War (2018)

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

*These summaries include mild spoilers regarding characters, settings, and story elements.*

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

*Ascension*, the seventh game by release date but the first in the chronological timeline, delves into Kratos's early days as he transitions from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set months after Kratos unwittingly kills his family at Ares's manipulation, *Ascension* follows Kratos's refusal to honor his oath to Ares, prompting a vengeful pursuit by the Furies. The game concludes with Kratos abandoning his Spartan home, still haunted by his grief.

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

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

In *Chains of Olympus*, a PSP title, Kratos is halfway through his decade-long servitude to the gods, five years before the original *God of War*. Tasked by Athena to rescue Helios, Kratos confronts Persephone, who tempts him with a reunion with his daughter, challenging his loyalty to the gods and his mission.

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

3. God of War (2005)

Set roughly a decade after *Ascension*, the original *God of War* begins with Kratos's suicide attempt, followed by a flashback detailing his final task from Athena: to defeat Ares and save Athens. Kratos's journey for redemption leads him to Pandora's Box and a climactic battle with Ares, culminating in his ascension to the throne of the God of War on Olympus.

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

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

*Ghost of Sparta*, the second PSP entry, unfolds between the original *God of War* and *God of War 2*. It follows Kratos's quest to Atlantis, where he reconnects with his mortal mother and discovers his long-lost brother, Deimos. Their confrontation with Thanatos ends tragically, further fueling Kratos's anger towards the gods.

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

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

A 2D sidescroller for mobile devices, *Betrayal* is officially part of the *God of War* canon. Framed for the murder of Argos by an unseen assassin, Kratos's defiance against the gods escalates, setting the stage for *God of War 2*. Due to its age, *Betrayal* is no longer available on modern platforms but can be experienced via a Java emulator.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007)

In *God of War 2*, Kratos's warpath leads to a direct confrontation with Zeus, resulting in his death and subsequent revival by Gaia. With the power of the Loom of Fate, Kratos alters time to gather 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

7. God of War 3 (2010)

Continuing directly from *God of War 2*, *God of War 3* sees Kratos and the Titans clashing with the Olympians. Kratos's journey through betrayal and vengeance culminates in a final battle against Zeus, ending with a sacrifice to restore hope to humanity amidst a devastated world.

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

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

A text-based adventure on Facebook Messenger, *A Call from the Wilds* introduces Kratos's son, Atreus, and his unique abilities, set before the events of *God of War (2018)*. Although no longer playable, its story can be viewed through online playthroughs.

Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)

9. God of War (2018)

Years after *God of War 3*, Kratos finds himself in the Norse realm of Midgard with his son, Atreus. Their journey to spread Faye's ashes leads them through multiple realms, confronting Norse mythology figures and Kratos's struggles with fatherhood and his past.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

*God of War: Ragnarok* unfolds three years after *God of War (2018)*, as Fimbulwinter nears its end and Ragnarök looms. Kratos and Atreus navigate personal quests and the looming threat of Ragnarök across the Nine Realms, with the story hinting at future adventures.

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 yet to announce a new *God of War* game, the success of *God of War (2018)* and *Ragnarok* suggests more is on the horizon. The recent PC release of *God of War: Ragnarok* and a planned TV series for Amazon's Prime Video further expand the franchise's reach. Despite production challenges, the series promises to bring Kratos's saga to a broader audience.

For those interested in similar chronological guides, explore other series like Assassin's Creed, Halo, Batman Arkham, Resident Evil, and Pokémon for a comprehensive gaming journey.