God of War: A Chronological Playthrough Guide

The God of War series has firmly established itself as one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, originating during the PS2 era and evolving into a cornerstone of gaming's action-adventure genre. Initially known for its gripping action gameplay and the compelling narrative of divine revenge led by the Spartan demigod Kratos, the series has matured over the last two decades. Now, it offers a blend of refined action, deep lore, and a more nuanced narrative centered around an older, more empathetic Kratos.

With the release of God of War Ragnarok, which has secured its place among the all-time greats, we've crafted a comprehensive guide for those eager to explore or revisit the series from the beginning.

Jump to:

• How to play chronologically
• How to play by release date
• How Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has released 10 God of War games in the series — six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and one text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Here's a look at every God of War game released since its inception. See All

We're not including the second mobile release, God of War: Mimir’s Vision, as this AR game doesn't contribute to the main narrative but provides additional lore. Similarly, we're omitting PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale from this chronology, despite its humorous inclusion in the God of War canon.

Additionally, there are God of War stories told through novels and comics, but this list focuses solely on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While God of War: Ascension is the first game in the series chronologically, God of War (2018) is a more suitable starting point. It's available on PS4, PS5, and PC, making it accessible to a broader audience and serving as an excellent entry point for new players.

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

These blurbs contain mild spoilers for each game, including characters, settings, and story beats.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game in the series by release date but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early transformation from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set months after Kratos was manipulated into killing his family by Ares, the game follows his refusal to honor his oath to the god, prompting a revenge-driven plot involving the Furies. The story concludes with Kratos abandoning his Spartan home, still tormented by his actions.

Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review

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

In Chains of Olympus, Kratos embarks on a quest during his servitude to the gods, five years before the original God of War. Tasked by Athena to rescue Helios, Kratos confronts Persephone, who tempts him with the chance to reunite with his daughter, forcing him to grapple with apocalyptic consequences.

Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review

3. God of War (2005)

Set roughly 10 years after Ascension, the first God of War game begins with Kratos's suicide attempt, flashing back to his final task from Athena: defeat Ares and save Athens. Kratos's journey to obtain Pandora’s Box and confront Ares is filled with trials, ultimately leading to his ascension to the God of War throne.

Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review

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

Set between the first God of War and God of War II, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's familial ties, including his mother and long-lost brother Deimos. The narrative culminates in a battle against Thanatos, further deepening Kratos's conflict with the Olympians.

Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile 2D sidescroller, officially part of the God of War canon, sees Kratos framed for the murder of Argos and further alienates him from Olympus. Betrayal sets the stage for God of War II but is no longer available on modern mobile platforms.

Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review

6. God of War II (2007)

In God of War II, Kratos's rampage leads to his death at the hands of Zeus. Revived by Gaia, Kratos seeks to alter his fate by confronting the Sisters of Fate, ultimately recruiting the Titans for an assault on Olympus, setting up God of War III.

Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review

7. God of War III (2010)

God of War III concludes Kratos's Greek saga with his final battle against Zeus and the Olympians. After a series of betrayals and epic battles, Kratos sacrifices himself to release hope to humanity.

Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review

8. God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)

A Call from the Wilds, a text-adventure on Facebook Messenger, introduces Kratos's son Atreus and explores his abilities and relationships before the events of God of War (2018). Though no longer playable, it adds depth to the characters.

Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)

9. God of War (2018)

Set years after God of War III, Kratos and his son Atreus embark on a journey in Norse mythology to fulfill Faye's dying wish. Their adventure through multiple realms leads to the onset of Fimbulwinter, signaling the approach of Ragnarök.

Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

In God of War: Ragnarok, set three years after the previous game, Kratos and Atreus navigate the Nine Realms during Fimbulwinter, facing new challenges and exploring their identities amidst the looming Ragnarök. The game leaves room for future stories while offering a New Game Plus mode for replayability.

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 Ragnarok (2022)

What’s Next for God of War?

Sony has yet to announce a new God of War game, but given the success of God of War (2018) and Ragnarok, future installments seem likely. The latest development is the PC release of God of War: Ragnarok. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon’s Prime Video, though it faced delays in 2024 following key departures from the production team.

For more chronological gaming guides, consider exploring:

• Assassin's Creed Games in Order
• Halo Games in Order
• Batman Arkham Games in Order
• Resident Evil Games in Order
• Pokemon Games in Order