In Which Order Should You Play God of War Games

This guide explores the optimal order for experiencing the God of War series, catering to both newcomers and seasoned fans. The series boasts a rich history spanning Greek and Norse sagas, making the choice of starting point crucial.

Essential Games & Skipped Titles:

Ten God of War games exist, but only eight are essential to the overarching narrative. God of War: Betrayal (mobile) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (Facebook) can be safely omitted.

Popular Play Orders:

Two main approaches exist: release order and chronological order.

• Release Order: This mirrors the games' original launch sequence, offering a glimpse into the evolution of gameplay mechanics. However, some earlier titles may feel less polished than the main trilogy. The order is: 1. God of War (2005), 2. God of War II (2007), 3. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008), 4. God of War III (2010), 5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010), 6. God of War: Ascension (2013), 7. God of War (2018), 8. God of War Ragnarök (2022), 9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023).

• Chronological Order: This prioritizes narrative flow, but involves gameplay inconsistencies across titles. The order is: 1. God of War: Ascension, 2. God of War: Chains of Olympus, 3. God of War (2005), 4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta, 5. God of War II (2007), 6. God of War III (2010), 7. God of War (2018), 8. God of War Ragnarök, 9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla (Free DLC).

Recommended Play Order:

This order balances narrative coherence with gameplay enjoyment:

1. God of War (2005)
2. God of War: Chains of Olympus
3. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
4. God of War II (2007)
5. God of War III (2010)
6. God of War: Ascension (Consider skipping if gameplay feels dated; a YouTube summary suffices)
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök
9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode

This sequence allows for a gradual introduction to the series' mechanics and story, culminating in the modern Norse Saga.

Alternate Play Order (Norse Saga First):

For players prioritizing modern gameplay and visuals, this order is viable:

1. God of War (2018)
2. God of War Ragnarök
3. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode
4. God of War: Ascension (Consider skipping)
5. God of War: Chains of Olympus
6. God of War (2005)
7. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
8. God of War II (2007)
9. God of War III (2010)

This approach might enhance the mystery surrounding Kratos' past, but sacrifices the chronological narrative flow.