God of War

In short: God of War is an action game released in 2018 by Santa Monica Studio, available on PlayStation and PC. Our score: 9.5/10 (highly recommended).

God of War

Kratos, now a father, and his son Atreus embark on a perilous journey in the Norse wilds, facing mythical beasts and gods while trying to fulfill a somber promise.

God of War (2018) is a masterful reimagining of the iconic series, transplanting Kratos from the sun-drenched pantheon of Greek mythology to the frost-bitten realms of Midgard. This new saga emphasizes a more mature and introspective Kratos, burdened by his past and now responsible for his young son, Atreus. The narrative is a deeply personal journey, exploring themes of fatherhood, loss, and the struggle to escape a cycle of violence, all while navigating the treacherous Norse wilds. The bond between Kratos and Atreus is the emotional core of the game, evolving from reluctant guidance to a profound partnership, making every challenge they face feel impactful. The gameplay has undergone a significant overhaul, shifting from the fixed camera and hack-and-slash combat of previous entries to a more intimate, over-the-shoulder perspective. Combat is visceral and strategic, relying on Kratos' powerful Leviathan Axe and Atreus' ranged bow attacks. Players must master parries, dodges, and elemental attacks to overcome a diverse array of Norse mythological creatures and formidable gods. The game seamlessly blends intense combat encounters with engaging environmental puzzles and exploration, rewarding players who delve into every corner of its beautifully crafted world, uncovering secrets and lore. Graphically, God of War is a stunning achievement. The world of Midgard is breathtakingly rendered, from the intricate details of character models and armor to the majestic, sprawling land…

Game details

Our review

God of War (2018) is a masterpiece, a profound evolution of a beloved series. The narrative delves deep into Kratos's struggle with fatherhood, set against a stunning Norse backdrop. Combat is visceral and incredibly satisfying, rewarding strategic thinking alongside brute force. The graphical fidelity and art direction are simply breathtaking, bringing Midgard to life with unparalleled detail. While the initial learning curve for new combat mechanics might be a slight hurdle for some, the journey is ultimately rewarding and unforgettable. This game is a must-play for any fan of action-adventure games or compelling storytelling.

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FAQ

Is God of War (2018) a reboot or a sequel?
It's a soft reboot and a direct sequel to the original Greek saga. Kratos's past is acknowledged, but the story focuses on his new life in the Norse realms.
Do I need to play previous God of War games to understand the story?
While not strictly necessary, having knowledge of Kratos's past deeds will enrich your understanding of his character and motivations in this game. The game does a good job of providing context, however.
How long is the main story of God of War (2018)?
The main story typically takes around 20-25 hours to complete. However, factoring in side quests, exploration, and optional challenges can easily extend playtime to 40-50+ hours.
Is there a New Game+ mode?
Yes, God of War (2018) features a robust New Game+ mode that allows you to start the game over with all your acquired gear, skills, and upgrades, facing tougher enemies and new customization options.
Are there difficulty options?
Yes, the game offers several difficulty settings, ranging from 'Give Me a Story' for players who want to focus on the narrative to 'Give Me God of War' for a truly brutal and challenging experience.

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Last updated: 01/04/2026