How to Play the God of War Games in Chronological Order

The Norse-saga *God of War* games have solidified their place among PlayStation’s most iconic franchises. Beginning its legendary run 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 compelling narratives, all anchored by a more nuanced and empathetic Kratos.

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

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How to Play Chronologically
How to Play by Release Date
How Many God of War Games Are There?

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

The Complete God of War Playlist

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

We're excluding the second mobile release, God of War: Mimir's Vision, as its AR format doesn't contribute to the main narrative but offers supplemental lore. PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is also omitted, despite its humorous inclusion in the God of War canon. This list focuses solely on the games. Numerous novels and comics expand the God of War universe, but they are not included here.

Where to Begin Your God of War Journey?

While God of War: Ascension is chronologically first, God of War (2018) is the recommended starting point. Its availability on PS4, PS5, and PC makes it incredibly accessible and provides a fantastic introduction to the series.

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

(Mild spoilers ahead for characters, settings, and plot points.)

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Chronologically first, Ascension depicts Kratos's early transformation from Spartan demigod to God of War. Months after Ares manipulates him into killing his family, a traumatized Kratos defies his oath to Ares, leading to a conflict with the Furies. He ultimately kills them to break free from his oath, leaving his Spartan life behind.

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

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

Taking place during Kratos's ten-year servitude to the gods (five years before the original God of War), Chains of Olympus sees him rescue Helios, the sun god, from Persephone, Queen of the Underworld. He grapples with the possibility of reuniting with his daughter and the consequences of his actions.

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

3. God of War (2005)

Ten years after Ascension, Kratos, consumed by grief, attempts suicide. The game flashes back to reveal his final task for Athena: defeat Ares and save Athens. He obtains Pandora's Box and kills Ares, earning a throne on Olympus and becoming the God of War. The game also details his past as a Spartan captain and his pact with Ares.

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

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

Set between the first two God of War games, Ghost of Sparta focuses on Kratos's journey to Atlantis, where he encounters his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos. They battle Thanatos, the God of Death, but Kratos's journey leaves him more weary and enraged.

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

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile game, canon according to Sony Santa Monica, shows Kratos facing the wrath of the gods after killing Argos, a giant servant of Hera. He is framed for the murder, setting up his conflict with Zeus in the next game.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007)

Kratos battles Zeus, who kills him. With Gaia's help, Kratos manipulates the Sisters of Fate to undo his death. He then rallies the Titans against 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)

The Titans and Kratos wage war against the Olympians. Betrayals and descents into the Underworld lead to a final showdown with Zeus. Kratos ends his vengeance, sacrificing himself to bring hope to humanity.

Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN's 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 before the events of God of War (2018).

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

9. God of War (2018)

Years after God of War 3, 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's God of War 2018 Review

10. God of War Ragnarök (2022)

Three years after the previous game, Kratos and Atreus face Ragnarök, traversing the Nine Realms and confronting figures like Odin and Thor.

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

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 Ragnarök (2022)

The Future of God of War

Looking for more chronological game guides? Check out these:

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