"God of War: Chronological Play Guide"

The God of War series has firmly established itself as one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, tracing its roots back to the PS2 era. With its inception marked by intense action gameplay, a compelling narrative of divine revenge, and the unforgettable Spartan demigod Kratos, the series has evolved over the past two decades into a cornerstone of action-adventure gaming. Today, it seamlessly blends refined action mechanics with richer lore and a more profound narrative, highlighted by the transformation of Kratos into a more empathetic figure.

Following the monumental success of God of War Ragnarok, which has secured its place among gaming's all-time greats, we've curated a comprehensive chronology for fans eager to experience the series from its beginning or revisit it.

Jump to:

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

Sony has released a total of **10 God of War games** across various platforms, including six for home consoles, two for portable consoles, one for mobile, and a unique text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Here's a rundown of every God of War game released since the franchise's inception. From the original gripping tales to the expansive Norse sagas, embark on a journey through Kratos's legendary adventures.

We're excluding the second mobile release, God of War: Mimir’s Vision, as it's an AR game that focuses on background lore rather than advancing the main storyline. Additionally, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, while part of the God of War canon, is omitted from this chronology.

The God of War universe also extends into novels and comics, but this guide focuses solely on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

Although God of War: Ascension is the first game chronologically, the recommended starting point for newcomers is God of War (2018). It's accessible on PS4, PS5, and PC, making it an ideal entry into the saga.

For PlayStation God of War (2018)

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

*These summaries include mild spoilers on characters, settings, and story arcs.*

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game released but the first in chronological order, delves into Kratos's early days as he transitions from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set shortly after Ares manipulates Kratos into killing his family, Ascension follows Kratos's quest to break free from his oath to Ares, battling the Furies. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his homeland, haunted by his past.

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, as instructed by Athena. The journey leads him to confront Persephone, who offers Kratos a chance to reunite with his daughter, forcing him to weigh the consequences of his actions against his duty.

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

3. God of War (2005)

Set a decade after Ascension, the original God of War follows Kratos as he battles Ares to save Athens and atone for his past. The game narrates Kratos's servitude to the gods and his ultimate ascension to the God of War, marked by intense action and poignant storytelling.

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

4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)

Taking place between the first and second games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's quest to Atlantis, where he reunites with his mother and long-lost brother Deimos. The game delves deeper into Kratos's familial ties and his escalating conflict with 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, part of the God of War canon, follows Kratos as he faces off against the gods' attempts to curb his rampage. Framed for the murder of Argos, Kratos's defiance against Olympus sets the stage for future conflicts.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007)

God of War 2 sees Kratos challenging Zeus after rejecting peace. Betrayed and killed by Zeus, Kratos allies with Gaia to alter his fate, leading to a climactic battle against the Olympians and a setup for the next game.

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

7. God of War 3 (2010)

Picking up immediately after God of War 2, the third installment concludes Kratos's Greek saga with a massive battle against the Olympians. Kratos's journey through betrayal and vengeance culminates in a sacrifice that releases 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 abilities, set before the 2018 game. Although no longer playable, its story can be explored through online playthroughs.

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

9. God of War (2018)

Years after the Greek saga, Kratos finds himself in the Norse realm of Midgard with his son Atreus. Their journey to fulfill Faye's dying wish leads them through the Nine Realms, encountering Norse mythology's denizens and deepening their bond.

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 sees Kratos and Atreus navigating the end of Fimbulwinter and the looming Ragnarök. The narrative focuses on Atreus's growth and their quest to thwart the Asgards, leaving room for future adventures.

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?

While Sony has yet to announce the next God of War game, the series's critical and commercial success suggests more entries are on the horizon. The latest development includes the PC release of God of War: Ragnarok, alongside a forthcoming TV adaptation for Amazon's Prime Video, which aims to bring the 2018 game's story to life.

For fans looking to explore other series in chronological order, consider these guides:

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