How to Play the God of War Games in Chronological Order
- By Brooklyn
- Mar 27,2025
The God of War franchise, an iconic staple of PlayStation's gaming library, has evolved dramatically since its inception during the PS2 era. Known for its thrilling action gameplay and the compelling narrative centered around the Spartan demigod Kratos, the series has solidified its status as a seminal action-adventure saga over the past two decades. As the franchise transitioned into the Norse mythology with God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarok, it not only refined its action mechanics but also deepened its storytelling, focusing on a more mature and empathetic Kratos.
With God of War Ragnarok cementing its place among the all-time greats, we present a comprehensive chronology of the series for those eager to experience or revisit the saga from its roots.
Jump to:
- How to play chronologically
- How to play by release date
- How Many God of War Games Are There?
Sony has enriched the God of War universe with **10 games** across various platforms, including six for home consoles, two for portable consoles, one for mobile, and one text-adventure for Facebook Messenger.
God of War: The Complete Playlist
Here's a journey through every God of War release, from the original to the latest Norse epics. Explore them all!
We've omitted God of War: Mimir's Vision, an AR mobile game that enriches the lore but doesn't advance the narrative. Also excluded is PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, despite its humorous nod to the God of War universe.
Beyond the games, the God of War saga extends into novels and comics, but our focus here remains on the gaming experience.
Which God of War Game Should You Play First?
While God of War: Ascension marks the chronological start of the series, diving into God of War (2018) might be your best entry point. Available on PS4, PS5, and PC, it offers a fresh start with Kratos in the Norse realms, making it ideal for newcomers and veterans alike.
For PlayStation God of War (2018)
Upgrade to the PS5 version through the PlayStation Store. See it at Amazon.
God of War Games in Chronological Order
*These summaries include mild spoilers about characters, settings, and plot points.*
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Ascension delves into Kratos's early days, setting the stage for his transformation into the God of War. The story unfolds shortly after Kratos, manipulated by Ares, kills his family, leading him to break his oath to the God of War. Pursued by the Furies, Kratos embarks on a quest for freedom from his oath, culminating in his departure from Sparta, still haunted by his past.
Available on: PS3 | IGN's God of War: Ascension Review
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
Chains of Olympus follows Kratos halfway through his decade-long servitude to the gods. Tasked with rescuing Helios, Kratos faces Persephone, who tempts him with a reunion with his daughter. The game explores Kratos's struggle between his duties and the chance to reclaim his past.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN's God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
God of War (2005)
The original God of War game captures Kratos's final days of servitude, culminating in his battle against Ares to save Athens. Through flashbacks, we learn of Kratos's pact with Ares, his rise in the Spartan army, and his path to becoming the God of War after defeating Ares.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN's God of War Review
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
Ghost of Sparta fills in the gaps between the first two games, exploring Kratos's origins and family. Kratos uncovers his mother's fate and reunites with his brother Deimos, battling the God of Death, Thanatos, only to find more strife with the Olympians.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN's God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
This mobile game, though less accessible today, is part of the canon. Kratos's ongoing conflict with the gods escalates as he's framed for the murder of Argos, further damaging his relationship with Olympus and setting the stage for God of War 2.
Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN's God of War: Betrayal Review
God of War 2 (2007)
Kratos's war against the gods intensifies as he faces Zeus, leading to his temporary death and subsequent quest for vengeance. With Gaia's help, he manipulates time to challenge Zeus again, rallying the Titans for a final assault on Olympus.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN's God of War 2 Review
God of War 3 (2010)
God of War 3 concludes Kratos's Greek saga with a brutal campaign against the Olympians. After epic battles and betrayals, Kratos ends his quest for vengeance by sacrificing himself to release hope to humanity.
Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN's God of War 3 Review
God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
A text-adventure on Facebook Messenger, this game introduces Atreus and his abilities, setting the stage for his relationship with Kratos. Although no longer playable, its story adds depth to the 2018 game.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
God of War (2018)
Transporting Kratos to the Norse realm of Midgard, this game follows his journey with Atreus to fulfill Faye's last wish. As they traverse the Nine Realms, Kratos grapples with fatherhood and hidden truths, leading to the onset of Fimbulwinter.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN's God of War 2018 Review
God of War Ragnarok (2022)
*To avoid spoiling the recent release, this summary remains brief.*
God of War Ragnarok continues the Norse saga as Kratos and Atreus navigate the impending Ragnarök. With new characters like Odin and Thor, the game explores themes of identity and survival, leaving room for future stories.
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?
While Sony has not yet announced a new God of War game, the success of the recent entries suggests more adventures are on the horizon. The PC release of God of War Ragnarok marks the latest development, and a God of War TV series is also in the works for Amazon's Prime Video, though it faced delays following the departure of key creatives in 2024.
For those interested in other chronological game guides, explore these series:
- Assassin's Creed Games in Order
- Halo Games in Order
- Batman Arkham Games in Order
- Resident Evil Games in Order
- Pokemon Games in Order
