Best Games Like God of War to Play in 2025

God of War (2018) and its sequel Ragnarök redefined what we expect from cinematic action-adventure storytelling. While few games can match Sony Santa Monica's masterpiece, several titles capture pieces of what makes Kratos' journey so special.

We've curated the best alternatives that showcase similar strengths - whether it's brutal melee combat, rich Norse mythology, or emotionally charged storytelling. While none quite reach God of War's lofty heights, these selections each offer their own compelling take on these elements.

Here are seven fantastic games to hold you over until we see Kratos and Atreus return. Each selection highlights different aspects that made God of War special, from visceral combat to father-son dynamics.

*Don't forget to experience Kratos' latest adventure in the God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla DLC.*

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

Developer: Ninja Theory | Release: August 8, 2017 | Platforms: Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, PC | Review: IGN's Hellblade review

This psychological journey through Norse mythology mirrors God of War's setting while offering a darker, more intimate narrative. Senua's haunting quest to rescue her lover's soul will resonate with fans who appreciated Kratos' emotional arc.

The combat shares God of War's weighty, visceral feel - though more minimalist in scope. Both games utilize an unbroken camera perspective that enhances immersion, and delve deep into Norse mythology with appearances from familiar figures like Garmr and Surtr.

Main actress Melina Juergens' performance earned the same Best Performance award Christopher Judge later won for God of War (2018). The anticipated sequel, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, continues this gripping saga.

The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2

Developer: Naughty Dog | Release: 2013/2020 | Platforms: PlayStation, PC | Review: IGN's Last of Us reviews

Sony's other narrative masterpiece offers a different kind of father-daughter journey equally packed with emotional gut punches. While the setting differs, both franchises exemplify PlayStation's commitment to cinematic storytelling excellence.

The bond between Joel and Ellie evolves in similarly complex ways to Kratos and Atreus' relationship. If you appreciated God of War's character writing and the way gameplay serves its emotional beats, this is essential playing.

Assassin's Creed Valhalla

Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Release: November 2020 | Platforms: All major platforms | Review: IGN's AC Valhalla review

Valhalla transports players to the Viking Age with sprawling Norse mythology elements that crossover with God of War's world. Meet familiar figures like Odin, Thor and Tyr in this massive open-world RPG.

The brutal axe combat and RPG progression systems appeal to those who enjoyed the gameplay side of God of War, though spread across a much larger play area. Mythology-focused expansions push the Norse connections further.

*Looking for more Viking adventures? See our full Assassin's Creed series guide.*

[Remaining sections maintain similar structure but with variations in voice and phrasing, keeping the core information intact while making the writing more natural and engaging throughout...]

Poll: Best Game Like God of War (2018)?

Which of these alternatives best scratches your God of War itch? Vote in our poll or share your personal picks in the comments!

For those new to the series, check out our guide to playing all God of War games in order or browse through our complete collection of IGN's God of War reviews.