7 God of War Alternatives to Play in 2025

2018's God of War and its sequel, God of War Ragnarok, set a new standard for immersive, narrative-driven action-adventure games. Comparing any game to these masterpieces might seem daunting, but there are several titles that can satisfy fans awaiting the next chapter in Kratos and Atreus' saga. These games share key elements with the recent God of War titles, from visceral combat to compelling narratives and rich world designs.

As we eagerly anticipate updates on Kratos and Atreus' journey, here are seven games that God of War enthusiasts might find appealing. Whether you're drawn to the series for its intense third-person combat, inspired world design, gripping storytelling, or exploration of Norse mythology, these titles have something to offer.

For more adventures with Kratos, don't miss out on the 2023 God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla DLC.

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

Developer: Ninja Theory | Publisher: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 8, 2017 | Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC | Review: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice review

For fans of God of War’s combat, Norse setting/mythological exploration, and/or story.

Senua's journey in Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice mirrors Kratos' quest in God of War (2018). Driven by the loss of a loved one, Senua explores a world steeped in Norse mythology, venturing into Helheim and encountering familiar characters like Garmr and Surtr. Much like Kratos, she carries a decapitated head that adds depth to her narrative. The game's third-person combat and one-shot cinematic approach enhance immersion, much like God of War. Both games feature standout performances, with Melina Juergens and Christopher Judge winning Best Performance at The Game Awards in 2017 and 2022, respectively.

For more, check out the sequel, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2.

The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2

Developer: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony | Release Date: Remastered Part 1: September 2, 2022; Part 2: June 19, 2020 | Platforms: Part 2: PS5, PS4; Part 1: PS5, PS4, PS3, PC | Review: IGN's The Last of Us Part 1 review and The Last of Us Part 2 review

For fans of God of War’s story, immersive world, and/or cinematic qualities.

While The Last of Us differs in setting and gameplay, it shares the same commitment to storytelling and technical excellence as God of War. Both series are prime examples of Sony's mastery in crafting narrative-rich, third-person action-adventure games. Fans of Kratos and Atreus' dynamic will appreciate the similar bond between Joel and Ellie, as both pairs navigate a harsh world filled with moral complexities.

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release Date: November 10, 2020 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4/5, Xbox One, PC, Stadia, Luna | Review: IGN’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla review

For fans of God of War’s Norse setting/mythological exploration, combat, and/or RPG mechanics.

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla immerses players in Norse mythology, featuring familiar deities like Odin and Thor. Its melee combat and RPG elements, including skill trees, loot, and crafting, should appeal to God of War fans.

Explore more games like Assassin's Creed if you enjoyed Valhalla.

Jotun

Developer: Thunder Lotus Games | Publisher: Thunder Lotus Games | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Wii U, PC, Mac, Linus, Stadia | Review: IGN’s Jotun review

For fans of God of War’s Norse mythology and/or boss fights.

Jotun offers a unique take on Norse mythology with its hand-drawn art style. The game focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving but ramps up with intense boss battles against giant Norse foes.

Rise of the Tomb Raider

Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Publisher: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios | Release Date: November 10, 2015 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, Mac | Review: IGN’s Rise of the Tomb Raider review

For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design.

Rise of the Tomb Raider shares God of War's semi-open-world approach, featuring areas that expand as you progress. Its third-person combat and snowy settings will feel familiar to fans, as will its character-driven narrative.

Learn how to play the Tomb Raider games in order with our guide.

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order & Survivor

Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: Fallen Order: November 15, 2019; Survivor: April 28, 2023 | Platforms: Survivor: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC; Fallen Order: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Review: IGN’s Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order review and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor review

For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design and/or combat.

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Survivor feature explorable hubs and progression-based abilities similar to God of War. Fans will appreciate the satisfying melee combat and challenging boss fights, along with the immersive world and compelling story, influenced by former God of War 3 director Stig Asmussen.

Discover our top picks for the best Star Wars games of all time.

The Walking Dead: Season 1

Developer: Telltale Games | Publisher: Telltale Games | Release Date: April 24, 2012 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Mobile | Review: IGN's The Walking Dead: The Game review

For fans of God of War’s story.

Telltale’s The Walking Dead focuses on storytelling through choice-based gameplay and QTEs. Its narrative, centered on the relationship between Lee and Clem, mirrors the emotional depth of Kratos and Atreus' journey.

If you're new to the God of War series, check out our guide on how to play the games in chronological order, or explore our collection of every IGN God of War review.

Every God of War Review

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