In Which Order Should You Play God of War Games

This guide explores the optimal order for experiencing the God of War series, catering to both newcomers and seasoned fans. The series boasts a rich history, spanning the Greek and Norse sagas, making the ideal starting point a matter of debate.

All God of War Games (Essential Titles):

The series comprises ten games, but only eight are crucial to the overarching narrative. God of War: Betrayal (mobile) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (Facebook) can be safely omitted. The essential titles are:

1. God of War 1
2. God of War 2
3. God of War 3
4. God of War: Chains of Olympus
5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
6. God of War: Ascension
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök

Popular Play Orders:

Two primary approaches exist: release order and chronological order.

• Release Order: This follows the games' original launch sequence, offering a historical perspective on the series' evolution. However, note that some earlier titles (like Chains of Olympus and Ghost of Sparta) may not match the later games' production quality.

  1. God of War 1 (2005)
  2. God of War 2 (2007)
  3. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
  4. God of War 3 (2010)
  5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
  6. God of War: Ascension (2013)
  7. God of War (2018)
  8. God of War Ragnarök (2022)
  9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)

• Chronological Order: This prioritizes narrative flow, but be prepared for inconsistencies in gameplay and graphical fidelity. The starting game is often considered the weakest.

  1. God of War: Ascension
  2. God of War: Chains of Olympus
  3. God of War 1
  4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
  5. God of War 2
  6. God of War 3
  7. God of War (2018)
  8. God of War Ragnarök
  9. God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla (Free DLC)

Recommended Play Order:

This order balances narrative coherence and gameplay experience, preventing player fatigue.

1. God of War 1
2. God of War: Chains of Olympus
3. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
4. God of War 2
5. God of War 3
6. God of War: Ascension
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök
9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode

This sequence strategically places prequels before their main entries, ensuring a smoother transition. Ascension, while the weakest, is included for narrative completeness. Consider skipping it and watching a summary if it proves too tedious.

Alternative Play Order (Norse Saga First):

This approach prioritizes the improved gameplay and visuals of the Norse Saga, potentially enhancing the mystery surrounding Kratos' past. However, it disrupts the chronological storyline.

1. God of War (2018)
2. God of War Ragnarök
3. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode
4. God of War: Ascension
5. God of War: Chains of Olympus
6. God of War 1
7. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
8. God of War 2
9. God of War 3

Ultimately, the best order depends on individual preferences. This guide provides various options to help you embark on your epic God of War journey.