"God of War: Chronological Play Guide"

The God of War series, a cornerstone of PlayStation's iconic franchises, has captivated gamers since its inception during the PS2 era. Known for its exhilarating action gameplay and the compelling narrative of Kratos, the Spartan demigod, the series has evolved over two decades into a premier action-adventure saga. The latest entries, set in the Norse mythology, showcase a more mature and empathetic Kratos, blending refined action with deeper lore and a robust storyline. With the release of God of War Ragnarok, which has been hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, this guide offers a detailed chronology for fans eager to experience or revisit the series from the beginning.

Jump to:

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

Sony has released 10 God of War games in the series—six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and one text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Here's a comprehensive list of every God of War release, from the very beginning. See All!

We’re excluding its second mobile release, God of War: Mimir’s Vision, as this AR game doesn’t add to the ongoing narrative but instead provides players with background lore from the world of God of War. We’re also excluding PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale in this chronology, despite its comical inclusion in the God of War canon.

There are several God of War stories told through novels and comics as well, though this list only includes games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

Although technically the first game in the series chronologically was God of War: Ascension, realistically you'll probably want to start with God of War (2018). Not only is it available on both PS4 and PS5, you can also play it on PC. It's a great starting point for anyone just getting into the series.

For PlayStation God of War (2018)

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

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

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh God of War game by release date but the first chronologically, delves into the early days of Kratos's transformation from a Spartan demigod into the God of War. The story unfolds months after Kratos was manipulated into killing his wife and daughter by Ares, the Greek God of War. Refusing to honor his oath to Ares, Kratos sets off on a path of vengeance against the Furies, who seek to punish his betrayal. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, tormented by his grief.

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

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

In this PSP title, Kratos embarks on a mission to rescue Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, from the underworld at Athena's request. Set during the midpoint of his ten-year servitude to the gods, Kratos faces Persephone, who tempts him with a chance to reunite with his daughter. The game explores Kratos's struggle between fulfilling his duty and the apocalyptic consequences of his choices.

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

3. God of War (2005)

The inaugural game in the series begins with Kratos's despair-driven leap off a cliff. A flashback reveals his final task from Athena: to defeat Ares and save Athens. Kratos's journey to obtain Pandora’s Box and confront Ares is fraught with trials in the underworld. After his victory, Athena offers him a place on Olympus, marking his ascension to God of War. The game also provides backstory through cut scenes, detailing Kratos's 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 main games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's quest in Atlantis, where he encounters his mother and long-lost brother Deimos. The narrative ties up loose ends in Kratos's family history and culminates in a battle against Thanatos, the God of Death. The game deepens Kratos's fury and resentment towards the Olympians.

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

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile 2D sidescroller sees Kratos framed for killing Argos, a giant serving Hera, further straining his relationship with Olympus. Zeus sends a messenger to stop Kratos's rampage, but Kratos responds with violence, setting the stage for God of War 2. Although not available on modern mobile platforms, it can be accessed 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)

Kratos's defiance against Olympus reaches a boiling point, leading Zeus to kill him. Revived by Gaia, Kratos seeks to alter his fate by confronting the Sisters of Fate. His journey reveals his true parentage and ends with him leading the Titans against Olympus, setting up the events of 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)

Directly following God of War 2, this game concludes Kratos's Greek saga with his final battle against Zeus. Amidst a war that devastates the world, Kratos seeks to end his vengeance and restore hope to mankind.

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

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

This Facebook Messenger text-adventure introduces Kratos's son Atreus and his unique abilities, set before the events of God of War 2018. Although no longer playable, playthroughs can be found on YouTube.

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

9. God of War (2018)

Set years after God of War 3, Kratos and his son Atreus embark on a journey to fulfill Faye’s dying wish. Their path through the Norse realms introduces them to various mythological figures and forces Kratos to confront his past and fatherhood. The adventure concludes with the onset of Fimbulwinter, heralding Ragnarök.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Given the recency of Ragnarok's release, this plot synopsis is especially vague to avoid spoilers.

Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the impending Ragnarök. The narrative focuses on Atreus's growth and his exploration of his identity and powers. The game traverses all nine realms, culminating in a battle against the Asgards and a quest for survival.

Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War Ragnarok 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 Ragnarok (2022)

What’s Next for God of War?

For fans looking for more chronological guides, explore these other series:

• Assassin's Creed Games in Order
• Halo Games in Order
• Batman Arkham Games in Order
• Resident Evil Games in Order
• Pokemon Games in Order