In Which Order Should You Play God of War Games

This guide explores the optimal order for playing the God of War games, 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.

All God of War Games (Essential Titles Only):

The series comprises ten games, but only eight are essential for a complete narrative experience. We can safely omit God of War: Betrayal (mobile) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (Facebook). The core games are:

1. God of War (2005)
2. God of War II (2007)
3. God of War III (2010)
4. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
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)

Popular Play Orders:

Two primary approaches exist: release order and chronological order.

Release Order: This follows the games' original release dates, offering a historical perspective on the series' evolution. However, note that some prequels (like Chains of Olympus and Ghost of Sparta) may have lower production values than the main trilogy.

Chronological Order: This prioritizes narrative flow, but be aware of potential inconsistencies in gameplay and graphics across different titles. The starting game (Ascension) is generally considered the weakest.

Recommended Play Order:

This balanced approach considers both narrative and gameplay progression, aiming for an optimal player experience.

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 the gameplay feels dated; a YouTube summary suffices)
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök (2022)
9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)

Alternative Play Order (Norse Saga First):

For players prioritizing modern gameplay and visuals, starting with the Norse Saga offers a smoother entry point. This approach sacrifices chronological order but provides a more consistent experience. The mystery surrounding Kratos' past might also enhance the narrative.

1. God of War (2018)
2. God of War Ragnarök (2022)
3. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)
4. God of War: Ascension (Consider skipping if the gameplay feels dated; a YouTube summary suffices)
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)

Ultimately, the "best" order depends on individual preferences. This guide provides options to suit various play styles and priorities.