God of War Games: Complete Chronological Order

The God of War franchise has established itself as one of PlayStation's most iconic series over the past 20 years. Originally launched during the PS2 era, the series has evolved from a straightforward action game into a seminal action-adventure franchise with deep lore and narrative complexity.

Sony has released a total of 10 God of War games across various platforms. These include six home console titles, two portable games, one mobile game, and a text-adventure on Facebook Messenger. While the series began with Greek mythology, it later transitioned to Norse mythology, cementing its status as a flagship PlayStation property.

For players looking to experience the series, there are two main approaches: chronological order or release order. Although God of War: Ascension is technically the first game in the timeline, the 2018 reboot serves as the most accessible entry point for newcomers, available on PS4, PS5, and PC.

The God of War franchise spans two decades of gaming history, beginning with the original 2005 release. The series has consistently featured the Spartan demigod Kratos as its protagonist, taking players through a journey of divine revenge and personal redemption.

According to available information, the franchise consists of 10 distinct games. The breakdown includes:

• Six games released on home consoles
• Two games released on portable consoles
• One game released on mobile devices
• One text-adventure game available on Facebook Messenger

It is important to note that certain spin-off titles are excluded from the main chronology. God of War: Mimir's Vision, an augmented reality mobile game, is excluded because it provides background lore rather than contributing to the ongoing narrative. Additionally, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is excluded despite its comical inclusion in the series canon. The chronology focuses strictly on the main narrative games, excluding novels and comics that expand the universe.

Playing the God of War games in chronological order reveals the complete evolution of Kratos's character from a vengeful servant to a protective father. The timeline begins long before the original game's release.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Despite being the seventh game released, God of War: Ascension is the first chronologically. Set months after Kratos was manipulated into killing his wife and daughter by the Greek God of War Ares, the game explores Kratos's early transformation. Kratos refuses to honor the oath he swore to Ares, leading to a conflict with the Furies, three beings tasked with punishing betrayal. The game ends with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, still tormented by grief.

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

This PSP title takes place halfway through Kratos's ten-year servitude to the gods, specifically five years before the original game. The narrative tasks Kratos with rescuing Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, from the underworld. He encounters Persephone, the Queen of the Underworld, who offers him a chance to reunite with his daughter, creating a moral dilemma regarding the apocalyptic repercussions of that reunion.

3. God of War (2005)

Set roughly 10 years after Ascension, the original game begins with Kratos jumping off a cliff into the Aegean Sea. The story flashes back three weeks to reveal his final task from Athena: defeat Ares and save the city of Athens. Kratos obtains Pandora's Box and kills Ares. Despite his victory, Kratos remains troubled by his past. Athena offers him a throne on Olympus, completing his ascension to becoming the God of War. The game provides backstory on how Kratos, a revered Spartan captain, offered himself to Ares in exchange for victory against barbarians, resulting in the fusion of his arms with the Blades of Chaos.

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

Set between the original God of War and God of War 2, this PSP game explores Kratos's familial connections. The subtitle refers to Kratos's nickname, derived from his pale-white appearance caused by an oracle's curse that fastened the ashes of his wife and child to his skin. Kratos travels to Atlantis to find his mortal mother and his long-lost brother Deimos, who was kidnapped by the gods as a child to prevent a prophecy of Olympus's demise. The climax involves a battle with the Greek God of Death, Thanatos.

For those interested in playing the series in the order they were released, the timeline follows a specific progression that reflects the technological advancements of the time.

Release Order List

The games were released in the following order:

1. God of War (2005)
2. God of War 2 (2007)
3. God of War: Betrayal (2007)
4. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
5. God of War 3 (2010)
6. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
7. God of War: Ascension (2013)
8. God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
9. God of War (2018)
10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Where to Start?

While God of War: Ascension is the chronological starting point, the 2018 reboot is widely considered the best entry point for new players. It is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC. This version introduces an older, more empathetic Kratos and blends refined action gameplay with a stronger narrative hook, making it accessible to a modern audience.

The series has grown into gaming's seminal action-adventure franchise, with God of War Ragnarok earning its place in the pantheon of all-time greats. The narrative has shifted from the Greek pantheon to the Norse mythology, offering a fresh setting while maintaining the core themes of the series.