"Chronological Guide to Playing God of War Games" %v

The God of War series has become one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, thanks to its Norse-set masterpieces. Originating during the PS2 era, the series quickly distinguished itself with thrilling action gameplay, an enthralling story of divine revenge, and the unforgettable protagonist, the Spartan demigod Kratos. Two decades on, God of War has evolved into a seminal action-adventure series, seamlessly blending refined action mechanics with richer lore and a compelling narrative, now led by an older, more empathetic Kratos.

With God of War Ragnarok securing its status among the greatest games of all time, we've crafted this comprehensive chronology for fans looking to dive into the series from the beginning or revisit it.

God of War Games in Chronological Order

These blurbs contain mild spoilers for each game, including characters, settings, and story beats.

God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh God of War game by release date but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early days as a Spartan demigod and his transformation into the God of War. Set months after Kratos is tricked into killing his family by Ares, Ascension follows Kratos as he refuses to honor his oath to Ares, leading to a confrontation with the Furies. The story concludes with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by his grief.

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

God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)

In this PSP title, Kratos's journey unfolds halfway through his ten-year servitude to the gods. Tasked by Athena to rescue Helios, Kratos battles Persephone in the underworld. The game explores Kratos's internal struggle between reuniting with his daughter and fulfilling his duty to the gods.

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

God of War (2005)

Set a decade after Ascension, the original God of War begins with Kratos's attempted suicide, flashing back three weeks to explain his journey. Tasked by Athena to defeat Ares and save Athens, Kratos seeks redemption through Pandora's Box. His victory leads him to become the new God of War, though his past continues to haunt him.

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

God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)

Set between the first God of War and God of War II, Ghost of Sparta follows Kratos as he uncovers family secrets in Atlantis. Encountering his mother and long-lost brother Deimos, Kratos battles Thanatos, the God of Death. The game deepens Kratos's resentment towards the Olympians.

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

God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This 2D mobile sidescroller is part of the God of War canon. Kratos, framed for killing Argos, continues his defiance against the gods. Betrayal sets the stage for God of War II, though it's no longer available on modern mobile platforms and can be skipped.

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

God of War II (2007)

Kratos's war against the gods escalates in God of War II, where he faces Zeus. After being killed by Zeus, Kratos, with Gaia's help, manipulates the Loom of Fate to alter the past. The game ends with Kratos leading the Titans against Olympus, setting up God of War III.

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

God of War III (2010)

Following directly from God of War II, Kratos's saga concludes with a devastating war against the Olympians. His journey through the Underworld and epic battles culminate in a final confrontation with Zeus, ending with Kratos sacrificing himself to restore hope to mankind.

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

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

God of War: A Call from the Wilds is a text-adventure on Facebook Messenger that introduces Atreus and his abilities. Set before the 2018 game, it can be skipped but offers additional backstory.

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

God of War (2018)

Years after God of War III, Kratos and his son Atreus journey through the Norse realm of Midgard to fulfill Faye's dying wish. Their adventure spans multiple realms and involves encounters with Norse mythology figures, culminating in the onset of Fimbulwinter, signaling the approach of Ragnarök.

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

God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the impending Ragnarök. The game focuses on Atreus's identity and powers, with the duo traversing all nine realms. Ragnarok leaves room for future stories, with a New Game Plus mode available for replay.

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?

Sony has not announced a new God of War game yet, but given the success of the 2018 game and Ragnarok, future entries are anticipated. The latest news includes God of War: Ragnarok coming to PC. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon's Prime Video, adapting the 2018 game's story, though it faced delays in 2024 due to changes in the production team.

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