God of War: Chronological Play Order Guide

The God of War franchise has solidified its status as one of PlayStation's most iconic series, evolving from its origins in the PS2 era into a cornerstone of action-adventure gaming. Initially recognized for its gripping action and the compelling story of Kratos, the Spartan demigod driven by divine revenge, the series has matured over 20 years. Today, it offers a more refined action experience intertwined with deeper lore and a narrative centered around an older, more empathetic Kratos.

With the release of God of War Ragnarok, which has joined the ranks of gaming's all-time greats, we've crafted a comprehensive chronology for fans eager to embark on or revisit the journey from the beginning.

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How to play chronologicallyHow to play by release dateHow 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 every single God of War release since the dawn of the gods. See All

Santa Monica StudioSanta Monica StudioSony Online EntertainmentReady At Dawn StudiosBluepoint GamesSanta Monica StudioReady At Dawn StudiosReady At Dawn StudiosSCE Studios Santa MonicaSanta Monica StudioWe’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?

While the first game in the series chronologically is God of War: Ascension, a more practical starting point for newcomers is God of War (2018). This title is accessible on both PS4 and PS5, and even on PC, making it an ideal entry point into the saga.

### For PlayStation God of War (2018)

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

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game in the series by release but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos’s early transformation from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set months after Kratos is tricked into killing his family by Ares, Ascension follows Kratos as he breaks his oath to Ares, leading to a confrontation with the Furies. The game ends with Kratos abandoning his Spartan home, still haunted by his past.

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

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

Set halfway through Kratos’s ten-year servitude to the gods, Chains of Olympus sees Kratos tasked with rescuing Helios from the underworld. The game introduces Persephone, who tempts Kratos with a chance to reunite with his daughter, challenging his loyalty to the gods.

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

3. God of War (2005)

Set roughly 10 years after Ascension, the original God of War begins with Kratos’s suicide attempt and a flashback to his final task: defeating Ares to save Athens. Kratos’s journey to obtain Pandora’s Box and his eventual ascension to the God of War position are central to the plot, with crucial backstory provided through cut scenes.

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 game and God of War II, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos’s familial ties. He journeys to Atlantis to confront his past, meeting his mother and long-lost brother Deimos. The game ends with Kratos more embittered towards the Olympians.

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

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

A 2D sidescroller that fits into the God of War canon, Betrayal follows Kratos as he battles Argos and faces accusations of betrayal from the gods. The game sets the stage for God of War II, though it's no longer available on modern platforms.

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

6. God of War II (2007)

God of War II sees Kratos turn against Zeus, leading to his death and subsequent resurrection by Gaia. Kratos’s quest to alter his fate and wage war on Olympus sets up the events of God of War III.

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

7. God of War III (2010)

Following directly from the previous game, God of War III concludes Kratos’s Greek saga. His battle with the Olympians leads to a final confrontation with Zeus, culminating in Kratos releasing 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 text-adventure released on Facebook Messenger, A Call from the Wilds introduces Kratos’s son, Atreus, and offers backstory on his abilities. Set before the 2018 game, it’s no longer playable but adds depth to the characters.

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

9. God of War (2018)

Set years after God of War III, this game shifts the setting to Norse mythology. Kratos and Atreus embark on a journey to fulfill Faye’s dying wish, encountering various Norse figures and dealing with Kratos’s struggles with fatherhood.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok focuses on Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the impending Ragnarök. The game delves deeper into Atreus’s identity and powers, leaving the door open for future stories.

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 II (2007)God of War: Betrayal (2007)God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)God of War III (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?

While Sony hasn’t announced a new God of War game, the success of the recent entries suggests more is on the horizon. The PC port of God of War Ragnarok is a recent development, and a TV series adapting the 2018 game is in the works for Amazon’s Prime Video, despite some production challenges.

Looking for more in order guides like this? Take a look at these other chronological adventures:

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