The Norse-inspired *God of War* games have solidified their place as PlayStation icons. Originating on the PS2, the series initially captivated players with its thrilling action, compelling revenge narrative, and the unforgettable Spartan demigod, Kratos. Two decades later, *God of War* has evolved into a seminal action-adventure franchise, seamlessly blending refined combat with richer lore and a more nuanced story, anchored by a Kratos who's older and more empathetic.
With *God of War Ragnarök* achieving legendary status, we've crafted this chronological guide for those eager to experience (or revisit) the series from its beginning.
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How to play chronologically
How to play by release date
How Many God of War Games Are There?
Sony has released ten God of War games—six for home consoles, two for portable consoles, one mobile game, and a text adventure on Facebook Messenger.
God of War: The Complete Playlist
Here's every God of War release since the dawn of the gods. See All
We're excluding the second mobile release, God of War: Mimir's Vision, as its augmented reality format doesn't impact the main narrative, offering only supplementary lore. PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is also omitted, despite its humorous inclusion in the God of War canon. This list focuses solely on the games.
Which God of War Game Should You Play First?
While God of War: Ascension is chronologically first, starting with God of War (2018) is recommended. Its availability on PS4, PS5, and PC makes it an ideal entry point for newcomers.
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God of War Games in Chronological Order
(These blurbs contain mild spoilers.)
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Chronologically first, Ascension depicts Kratos's early transformation from Spartan demigod to God of War. Months after being manipulated into killing his family by Ares, a traumatized Kratos defies his oath, leading to conflict with the Furies. He ultimately leaves Sparta, still tormented by grief.
Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
Set during Kratos's ten-year servitude to the gods (five years before the first God of War), Chains of Olympus sees him rescue Helios from Persephone, Queen of the Underworld. Kratos grapples with the potential reunion with his daughter and the consequences of his actions.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
God of War (2005)
Ten years after Ascension, Kratos, nearing the end of his servitude, is tasked by Athena to defeat Ares. This journey reveals his past as a Spartan captain who made a pact with Ares, leading to his family's death. After defeating Ares, Kratos becomes the new God of War.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
Set between the first two main God of War games, Ghost of Sparta sees Kratos journey to Atlantis, encountering his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos. Their battle against Thanatos leads to further turmoil for Kratos.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
This mobile game, canonically part of the series, shows Kratos framed for killing Argos, furthering his conflict with Olympus. Zeus sends a messenger, leading to Kratos’s continued defiance.
Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review
God of War 2 (2007)
Kratos confronts Zeus, leading to his death. With Gaia's help, Kratos manipulates fate, recruiting Titans for his war against Olympus.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review
God of War 3 (2010)
The Titans and Kratos battle the Olympians. Kratos's betrayal and descent into the Underworld lead to a final confrontation with Zeus. Having achieved his vengeance, Kratos sacrifices himself.
Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review
God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
A Facebook Messenger text adventure introducing Atreus and providing backstory.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
God of War (2018)
Years after God of War 3, Kratos and Atreus journey through the Nine Realms, fulfilling Faye's dying wish. Kratos struggles with fatherhood and hidden truths.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review
God of War Ragnarök (2022)
Three years after 2018's God of War, Kratos and Atreus face Ragnarök, encountering Odin and Thor. Their journey focuses on identity and survival.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War Ragnarok Review
How to Play the God of War Games By Release Date ------------------------------------------------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 Ragnarök (2022)
What’s Next for God of War?
While future entries are anticipated, *God of War Ragnarök*'s PC release and an upcoming Amazon Prime Video series are currently in development.Looking for more order guides? Check out these:
Assassin's Creed Games in Order
Halo Games in Order
Batman Arkham Games in Order
Resident Evil Games in Order
Pokemon Games in Order
