The God of War series has solidified its status as one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, starting from its inception during the PS2 era. With its gripping action gameplay, a compelling narrative of divine revenge, and the unforgettable protagonist Kratos, the series has evolved over the past two decades into a benchmark for action-adventure gaming. The latest entries, set in the Norse mythology, showcase a matured Kratos, offering deeper lore and a more emotionally resonant story. With the monumental success of God of War Ragnarok, now is the perfect time to explore or revisit the saga from the 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 a total of **10 God of War games** in the series, spanning across home consoles, portable devices, mobile, and even a unique text-adventure on Facebook Messenger. Here's a detailed look at each game:

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Below is a comprehensive list of all God of War games released to date, complete with images and studio information:

We've omitted the mobile release, God of War: Mimir’s Vision, as it's an AR game that enriches the lore but doesn't advance the main storyline. Also, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, despite its humorous inclusion in the God of War canon, is not listed here.

Additionally, the God of War universe expands through novels and comics, but this guide focuses solely on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While God of War: Ascension is the first game chronologically, the ideal starting point for newcomers is God of War (2018). Available on PS4, PS5, and PC, it introduces the series' latest narrative arc, making it accessible for new players.

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

*These summaries include mild spoilers, covering characters, settings, and key story elements.*

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game in the series by release but the first in the timeline, delves into Kratos's early days as he transforms from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set shortly after Kratos's tragic manipulation by Ares into killing his family, Ascension follows Kratos's refusal to honor his oath to Ares, leading to a confrontation with the Furies. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by his grief.

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

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

In this PSP title, set five years before the original God of War, Kratos is midway through his decade-long servitude to the gods. Tasked with rescuing Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, from the underworld, Kratos faces Persephone, who tempts him with the chance to reunite with his daughter. The game explores Kratos's struggle between fulfilling his duty and the apocalyptic consequences of his personal desires.

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

3. God of War (2005)

The original God of War, set a decade after Ascension, opens with Kratos attempting suicide by jumping off a cliff. A flashback reveals his journey to defeat Ares and save Athens, driven by the promise of forgiveness. After a harrowing quest to obtain Pandora's Box, Kratos kills Ares but remains tormented. The game ends with Athena offering him a throne on Olympus, marking his ascension to God of War.

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

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

The second PSP game, set between the first and second God of War, explores Kratos's pale-white appearance, a result of an oracle's curse. Ghost of Sparta ties up loose ends with Kratos's family, as he journeys to Atlantis to confront his mortal mother and long-lost brother Deimos. The game culminates in a battle against Thanatos, leaving Kratos more embittered and furious with the gods.

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 canon, follows Kratos as he's framed for killing Argos, a giant serving Hera. The gods attempt to curb his bloodlust, but Kratos's defiance sets the stage for God of War 2. While no longer available on modern mobile platforms, Betrayal can be experienced through a Java emulator.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007)

God of War 2 sees Kratos challenging Zeus after years of rampaging across Greece. Zeus kills Kratos, but Gaia revives him, sending him on a quest to alter his fate. Kratos's journey leads him to the Sisters of Fate, where he learns of his true parentage and recruits the Titans for his war against Olympus, setting the stage for God of War 3.

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

7. God of War 3 (2010)

Following directly from God of War 2, this game concludes Kratos's Greek saga. His battle against Zeus and the Olympians leads to catastrophic consequences, with Kratos facing betrayal and a descent into the Underworld. The game ends with Kratos sacrificing himself to release hope to humanity, amidst a world in ruins.

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

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

This Facebook Messenger text-adventure, released before God of War (2018), introduces Atreus and explores his extrasensory abilities and his relationships with Kratos and his mother, Faye. Though no longer playable, its story can be experienced through YouTube playthroughs.

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

9. God of War (2018)

Set years after God of War 3, this game shifts Kratos to the Norse realm of Midgard, where he and his son Atreus embark on a journey to fulfill Faye's dying wish. Their adventure spans multiple realms, introducing characters from Norse mythology and exploring Kratos's struggles with fatherhood and secrets. The game concludes with the onset of Fimbulwinter, leading to Ragnarök.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok continues Kratos and Atreus's journey as the Nine Realms near the end of Fimbulwinter. This narrative-rich entry introduces new characters like Odin and Thor, focusing on Atreus's exploration of his identities and powers. The game spans all nine realms, leading to a climactic battle against the Asgards and the survival of Ragnarök. Ragnarok leaves room for future stories and offers a New Game Plus mode for continued play.

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

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?

While Sony has not announced a new God of War game, the success of the 2018 title and Ragnarok suggests more entries are likely. Recently, God of War: Ragnarok was released on PC, and a guide to the PC port is available. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon’s Prime Video, adapting the 2018 game's story, though it faced production challenges in 2024.

For fans interested in similar chronological 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