The Norse saga of God of War has solidified its place as a PlayStation icon. Beginning its reign on the PS2, the series quickly gained notoriety for its thrilling action, captivating tale of vengeance, 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 compelling narrative, all anchored by an older, more empathetic Kratos.
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 beginnings.
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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 on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one mobile title, and a text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.
God of War: The Complete Playlist
Here's every God of War game since the dawn of the franchise. See All
We're excluding the mobile game, God of War: Mimir's Vision, as it's supplementary lore, not a core narrative addition. 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. Numerous novels and comics expand the lore, but are not included here.
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 excellent entry point for newcomers.
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God of War Games in Chronological Order
(Mild spoilers below)
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Chronologically first, Ascension depicts Kratos's early transformation, exploring the events leading to his becoming the God of War. Months after killing his family under Ares' manipulation, Kratos defies his oath, leading to conflict with the Furies. He ultimately leaves Sparta, haunted by his past.
Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
Set midway through Kratos's ten-year servitude to the gods, Chains of Olympus sees him rescue Helios, the Sun God, while facing Persephone, Queen of the Underworld. He grapples with a potential reunion with his daughter and the consequences.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
God of War (2005)
Ten years after Ascension, Kratos, consumed by grief, attempts suicide. The game reveals his past: his service to Ares, his deal for victory, and his ultimate quest to defeat Ares and obtain Pandora's Box. He's offered a throne on Olympus, becoming the God of War.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
Between God of War and God of War II, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's journey to Atlantis, where he encounters his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos. They confront Thanatos, the God of Death, but Kratos remains tormented.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
This mobile game, canon according to Sony Santa Monica, shows Kratos framed for killing Argos and defying Zeus, setting the stage for God of War II. Availability is limited to Java emulators.
Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review
God of War 2 (2007)
Kratos battles Zeus, defying Athena's plea for peace. Killed by Zeus, he's aided by Gaia, manipulating the Sisters of Fate to alter his destiny and recruit the 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 conclusion of Kratos's Greek saga, God of War III depicts his war against Zeus and the Olympians. Betrayal, descent into the Underworld, and a final showdown with Zeus lead to Kratos's sacrifice and the release of hope for humanity.
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, A Call from the Wilds, introduces Atreus and provides backstory on his abilities and his parents' relationship. No longer playable, playthroughs are available online.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
God of War (2018)
Years after God of War III, Kratos and Atreus journey through the Norse realms to fulfill Faye's dying wish, encountering various figures from Norse mythology. Kratos struggles with fatherhood and hidden truths. Fimbulwinter begins.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review
God of War Ragnarök (2022)
Three years after 2018's God of War, Ragnarök sees the Nine Realms nearing Ragnarök. Kratos and Atreus face Odin, Thor, and others, embarking on personal and epic quests for 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, given the success of *God of War* (2018) and *Ragnarök*, no official announcements have been made. *Ragnarök*'s PC release is noteworthy, and a God of War TV series for Amazon Prime Video is in development, though it experienced production setbacks in 2024.Looking for more chronological game guides? Check out:
Assassin's Creed Games in Order
Halo Games in Order
Batman Arkham Games in Order
Resident Evil Games in Order
Pokemon Games in Order
