God of War: Chronological Play Order Guide

The *God of War* series has become a cornerstone of PlayStation's iconic franchises, evolving from its roots in the PS2 era to a celebrated action-adventure saga. Initially launched with gripping action gameplay and the compelling tale of Kratos, a Spartan demigod seeking vengeance against the gods, the series has matured over two decades. Today, it's renowned not only for its refined action but also for its deeper lore and emotionally resonant storytelling, featuring a more mature and empathetic Kratos.

Following the monumental success of *God of War Ragnarok*, we present a comprehensive chronology for fans eager to experience or revisit the series from its inception.

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How to play chronologicallyHow to play by release dateHow Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has released a total of **10 God of War games** in the series, spanning across six home console titles, two portable games, one mobile release, and a unique text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Below is a detailed list of every *God of War* game released, showcasing the evolution of this epic saga:

God of War [2005]Santa Monica StudioGod of War IISanta Monica StudioGod of War: BetrayalSony Online EntertainmentGod of War: Chains of OlympusReady At Dawn StudiosGod of War CollectionBluepoint GamesGod of War IIISanta Monica StudioGod of War: Ghost of SpartaReady At Dawn StudiosGod of War OriginsReady At Dawn StudiosGod of War SagaSCE Studios Santa MonicaGod of War: AscensionSanta Monica Studio

We've excluded *God of War: Mimir's Vision*, an AR mobile game that enriches the lore but does not contribute to the main storyline. Additionally, *PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale* is omitted from this chronology, despite its humorous inclusion in the *God of War* canon.

While there are numerous novels and comics expanding the *God of War* universe, this guide focuses solely on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

Although *God of War: Ascension* marks the beginning of the series chronologically, for new players, starting with *God of War (2018)* is highly recommended. Available on PS4, PS5, and PC, it serves as an excellent entry point into the series.

### For PlayStation God of War (2018)

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*These descriptions include mild spoilers regarding characters, settings, and key story elements.*

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game by release but the first in the timeline, delves into Kratos's early journey from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set months after being tricked into killing his family by Ares, Kratos breaks his oath, prompting the Furies to pursue him. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by his grief.

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

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

In Chains of Olympus, Kratos is halfway through his ten-year servitude to the gods, tasked with rescuing Helios from the underworld. Here, he confronts Persephone, who tempts him with the chance to reunite with his daughter, forcing Kratos to grapple with his past and his duties.

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

3. God of War (2005)

The original God of War begins with Kratos's suicide attempt, flashing back to his final task: defeating Ares to save Athens. Kratos's journey to obtain Pandora's Box and confront Ares is fraught with trials, culminating in his ascension to the God of War, yet his past continues to haunt him.

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

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

Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's familial ties, taking place between the first two games. Kratos journeys to Atlantis, reuniting with his mother and brother Deimos, only to face the God of Death, Thanatos. The game deepens Kratos's fury and weariness towards the Olympians.

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

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

Betrayal, a 2D sidescroller for mobile, is canon within the God of War universe. Kratos is framed for killing Argos, escalating tensions with the gods. This game sets the stage for God of War 2, 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 2 (2007)

In God of War 2, Kratos's defiance leads to his death at Zeus's hands. Revived by Gaia, he seeks to alter his fate, confronting the Sisters of Fate and rallying the Titans for an assault on Olympus, setting the stage 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)

God of War 3 concludes Kratos's Greek saga with a devastating war against the Olympians. After numerous betrayals and battles, Kratos faces Zeus in a final showdown, ultimately sacrificing himself to release 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 Call from the Wilds, a text-adventure on Facebook Messenger, introduces Atreus and his extrasensory abilities, set before God of War (2018). Though no longer playable, its story can be experienced through online playthroughs.

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 through the Norse realms to fulfill Faye's dying wish. Their adventure introduces them to Norse mythology's key figures and explores Kratos's struggles with fatherhood and hidden truths.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

God of War: Ragnarok continues Kratos and Atreus's saga three years later, as they navigate the impending Ragnarök. The game deepens Atreus's character and explores his powers, while Kratos faces personal and cosmic challenges across the Nine Realms.

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

For those interested in experiencing the series as it was released:

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 not announced a new *God of War* game, the success of *God of War (2018)* and *Ragnarok* suggests more entries are likely. The recent PC release of *Ragnarok* and a planned TV series for Amazon's Prime Video, adapting the 2018 game's story, indicate the franchise's continued expansion.

For fans of chronological guides, explore similar journeys with:

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