View source for Software:God of War (franchise)

{{Short description|Video game series}}
{{Infobox video game series
| title = God of War 
| image = God of War (Norse) logo.png
| caption = The Norse-based logo of the franchise introduced in 2016; 2022's ''[[Software:God of War Ragnarök|Ragnarök]]'' and its related merchandise uses blue for the Omega symbol instead of red
| genre = {{plainlist|
*Action-adventure
*[[Software:Hack and slash|Hack and slash]]}}
| developer = '''Primary'''{{plainlist|
*[[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]{{efn|Main installments: [[Software:God of War (2005 video game)|''God of War'' (2005)]], ''[[Software:God of War II|God of War II]]'', ''[[Software:God of War III|God of War III]]'', ''[[Software:God of War: Ascension|Ascension]]'', [[Software:God of War (2018 video game)|''God of War'' (2018)]], and ''[[Software:God of War Ragnarök|Ragnarök]]''}}
*[[Company:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]]{{efn|PSP installments: ''[[Software:God of War: Chains of Olympus|Chains of Olympus]]'' and ''[[Software:God of War: Ghost of Sparta|Ghost of Sparta]]''}}
*[[Company:Javaground|Javaground]]/SOE-LA{{efn|Mobile installment: ''[[Software:God of War: Betrayal|Betrayal]]''}}
}}'''Ports'''{{plainlist|
*[[Company:Bluepoint Games|Bluepoint Games]]{{efn|''God of War Collection'' for PS3}}
*[[Company:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]]{{efn|''God of War: Origins Collection'' for PS3}}
*[[Company:Sanzaru Games|Sanzaru Games]]{{efn|''God of War Collection'' for PS Vita}}
*Wholesale Algorithms{{efn|''God of War III Remastered'' for PS4}}
*Jetpack Interactive{{efn|[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)|''God of War'' (2018)]] for Windows}}}}
| publisher = {{plainlist|
*[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]{{efn|Formerly [[Software:Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]. Published all installments except ''[[Software:God of War: Betrayal|Betrayal]]''.}}
*Sony Pictures Digital{{efn|Published ''[[Software:God of War: Betrayal|Betrayal]]'' for mobile phones}}}}
| creator = David Jaffe
| artist = Charlie Wen
| writer = {{ubl|Marianne Krawczyk (Greek games)|Matt Sophos (Norse games)|Richard Gaubert (Norse games)}}
| platforms = {{plainlist|
*[[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]]
*[[Java Platform, Micro Edition|Java ME]]
*[[Engineering:PlayStation Portable|PlayStation Portable]]
*[[Engineering:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]]
*[[Engineering:PlayStation Vita|PlayStation Vita]]
*[[Engineering:PlayStation 4|PlayStation 4]]
*[[Engineering:PlayStation 5|PlayStation 5]]
*[[Software:Windows|Windows]]}}
| first release version = ''[[Software:God of War (2005 video game)|God of War]]''
| first release date = March 22, 2005
| latest release version = ''God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla''
| latest release date = December 12, 2023
}}

'''''God of War''''' is an [[Software:Action-adventure game|action-adventure game]] franchise created by David Jaffe at Sony's [[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]. It began in 2005 on the [[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]] (PS2) [[Engineering:Video game console|video game console]] and has become a flagship series for [[Engineering:PlayStation|PlayStation]], consisting of nine installments across multiple platforms. Based on ancient mythologies, the story follows Kratos, a Spartan warrior and later the Greek God of War, who was tricked into killing his family by his former master, the original Greek God of War Ares. This sets off a series of events that leads to wars with the different mythological pantheons. The [[Religion:Greek mythology|Greek]]-based games see Kratos follow a path of vengeance due to the machinations of the Olympian gods, while the Norse-based games which take place many years after the Greek-based ones and introduce his son Atreus as a secondary protagonist, show an older Kratos on a path of redemption and inadvertently coming into conflict with the [[Religion:List of Germanic deities|Norse gods]].

Santa Monica has developed all main entries, while [[Company:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]] and [[Company:Javaground|Javaground]]/Sony Online Entertainment-Los Angeles (SOE-LA) developed the three side games. [[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]] (SIE) has published all games except the mobile phone installment, which was published by Sony Pictures Digital. The first seven games make up the Greek era of the franchise. ''[[Software:God of War (2005 video game)|God of War]]'' (2005), ''[[Software:God of War II|God of War II]]'' (2007), and ''[[Software:God of War III|God of War III]]'' (2010) comprise its main trilogy; the first two were released on the PS2 with the third on the [[Engineering:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]] (PS3). A prequel, ''[[Software:God of War: Ascension|Ascension]]'' (2013), was also released for the PS3. Other games include ''[[Software:God of War: Chains of Olympus|Chains of Olympus]]'' (2008) and ''[[Software:God of War: Ghost of Sparta|Ghost of Sparta]]'' (2010) for the [[Engineering:PlayStation Portable|PlayStation Portable]] (PSP) and ''[[Software:God of War: Betrayal|Betrayal]]'' (2007) for mobile phones that supported the [[Java Platform, Micro Edition]] (Java ME). The Norse era began with the April 2018 game ''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)|God of War]]'', which released for the [[Engineering:PlayStation 4|PlayStation 4]] (PS4) and later [[Software:Windows|Windows]] in January 2022. It was accompanied by a short prequel, ''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)#God of War: A Call from the Wilds|A Call from the Wilds]]'' (2018), a [[Software:Text-based game|text-based game]] through [[Software:Facebook Messenger|Facebook Messenger]]. A sequel, ''[[Software:God of War Ragnarök|Ragnarök]]'', was released in November 2022 for the PS4 and [[Engineering:PlayStation 5|PlayStation 5]] (PS5), followed by a DLC expansion ''Valhalla'' in December 2023 and concluded the Norse era.

Games in the series have been praised as some of the best action games of all time. The series has received numerous awards, including several Game of the Year recognitions for the 2005 and 2018 installments. Some games have also been remastered for newer PlayStation platforms. As of November 2023, the franchise has sold an estimated 66+ million games worldwide, and is Playstation’s most profitable first-party brand. Strong sales and support of the series led to the franchise's expansion into other media, such as three comic book series and three novels. A film adaptation of the original installment had been in development but was ultimately canceled; however, a television series adaptation of the Norse era is in development for [[Software:Amazon Prime Video|Amazon Prime Video]]. Merchandise includes artwork, clothing, toys, and [[Engineering:Prop replica|prop replica]]s, as well as the games' soundtracks, including a heavy metal album, ''Blood & Metal'' (2010), featuring original [[Physics:Music|music]] by various bands who were inspired by the series.

== Games ==
{{Timeline of release years
| subtitle = {{legend0|#ff7207}}{{legend0|#B74F05}} Greek mythology {{legend0|#4d86bb}}{{legend0|#3D6A91}} Norse mythology<br />Main installments in '''bold text'''<br>*Asterisks are re-releases
| range1       = 2005–2015
| range1_color = #ff7207 #B74F05 <!-- colors are based on the series' logos -->
| range2       = 2016-2017
| range2_color = #ccc
| range3       = 2018–2023
| range3_color = #4d86bb #3D6A91
| 2005  = '''''[[Software:God of War (2005 video game)|God of War]]'''''
| 2007a = '''''[[Software:God of War II|God of War II]]'''''
| 2007b = ''[[Software:God of War: Betrayal|God of War]]''
| 2008  = ''[[Software:God of War: Chains of Olympus|God of War]]'' (PSP)
| 2009  = *''God of War Collection'' (PS3)
| 2010a = '''''[[Software:God of War III|God of War III]]'''''
| 2010b = ''[[Software:God of War: Ghost of Sparta|God of War]]''
| 2011  = *''God of War: Origins Collection''
| 2012  = *''God of War Saga''
| 2013  = '''''[[Software:God of War: Ascension|God of War]]'''''
| 2014  = *''God of War Collection'' (Vita)
| 2015  = *''God of War III Remastered''
| 2018a = ''God of War: A Call from the Wilds''
| 2018b = '''''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)|God of War]]'''''
| 2022  = '''''[[Software:God of War Ragnarök|God of War Ragnarök]]'''''
|2023   = ''God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla''
}}

===First era (Greek mythology)===
'''''[[Software:God of War (2005 video game)|God of War]]''''' was first released in North America on March 22, 2005, for the [[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]]. After ten years in the service of the Olympian gods, Spartan soldier Kratos is tasked by Athena to find Pandora's box, the key to defeating Ares, the God of War, who is running amok through [[Place:Athens|Athens]]. A series of flashbacks reveals that Kratos was once the servant of Ares, who saved Kratos and his army from annihilation in battle, but tricked him into killing his family, which forced his metamorphosis into the "Ghost of Sparta". Kratos eventually finds Pandora's Box, and after finally killing Ares, he ascends to Mount Olympus to become the new God of War.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war/ps2-661321 |title=God of War&nbsp;– PlayStation 2 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120519074716/http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war/ps2-661321 |archive-date=May 19, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War II|God of War II]]''''' was first released in North America on March 13, 2007, for the PlayStation 2. Angry at his fellow gods, Kratos runs amok across the city of Rhodes. [[Religion:Zeus|Zeus]] intervenes and betrays Kratos, who is saved by the Titan [[Religion:Gaia|Gaia]]. She tells him he must now find the [[Philosophy:Moirai|Sisters of Fate]], who can change his fate and prevent his death at the hands of Zeus. Kratos is ultimately successful and as he is about to kill the god, Athena sacrifices herself to save Zeus and preserve Olympus, and tells Kratos that he is Zeus' son and that he betrayed Kratos out of fear. Kratos then joins forces with Gaia and the Titans to attack Olympus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-ii/ps2-811719 |title=God of War II&nbsp;– PlayStation 2 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130701044411/http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-ii/ps2-811719 |archive-date=July 1, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War: Betrayal|God of War]]''''' was released on June 20, 2007, for mobile phones supporting the [[Java Platform, Micro Edition]]. It is the only game in the series to be released as a [[2D computer graphics|two-dimensional]] (2D) side-scroller and the first that was released on a non-[[Engineering:PlayStation|PlayStation]] platform. The narrative of the game takes place between the events of ''Ghost of Sparta'' and ''God of War II''. Kratos is framed for murder, and rampages across Greece seeking the true assassin. Kratos succumbs to bloodlust and kills Ceryx, the son of the god [[Religion:Hermes|Hermes]]—an act that alienates him from his fellow gods.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-betrayal/cell-904604|title=God of War: Betrayal&nbsp;– Wireless|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|work=IGN|access-date=July 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160325105750/http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-betrayal/cell-904604|archive-date=March 25, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Betrayalreview">{{cite web|url=http://wireless.ign.com/articles/799/799811p1.html |title=God of War: Betrayal Review |date=June 27, 2007 |last=Buchanan |first=Levi |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121031081152/http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/06/27/god-of-war-betrayal-review |archive-date=October 31, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War: Chains of Olympus|God of War]]''''' was first released in North America on March 4, 2008, for the [[Engineering:PlayStation Portable|PlayStation Portable]]. Its narrative takes place sometime between ''Ascension'' and ''God of War'' during Kratos' ten years of service to the gods. Kratos halts a Persian invasion of the Greek city of [[Place:Attica|Attica]], and learns that the world has been plunged into darkness by the god [[Unsolved:Morpheus|Morpheus]]. Kratos investigates the abduction of the sun god [[Religion:Helios|Helios]], and prevents the Machiavellian plan of the goddess [[Religion:Persephone|Persephone]] to use the Titan [[Religion:Atlas (mythology)|Atlas]] to destroy the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus/psp-886122 |title=God of War: Chains of Olympus&nbsp;– PlayStation Portable |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328123457/http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus/psp-886122 |archive-date=March 28, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War III|God of War III]]''''' was first released in North America on March 16, 2010, for the [[Engineering:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]]. Reigniting the Great War, Kratos is soon abandoned by the Titans, who were only using him to exact their own revenge. Now seeking revenge against both the Titans and Olympian gods, he is helped by the spirit of Athena, who was elevated to a new level of understanding and instructs him to seek the Flame of Olympus in order to defeat Zeus. Kratos engages the gods and the Titans in a series of battles across the [[Unsolved:Underworld|Underworld]] and Olympus and learns that Pandora's Box is within the Flame. He discovers that [[Religion:Pandora|Pandora]] herself is the key to pacifying the Flame and allowing him to open the Box, at the expense of her life. After finally killing Zeus and with Olympus destroyed, Kratos refuses to help Athena assume the role of new patron of mankind and disappears.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-iii/ps3-886158 |title=God of War III&nbsp;– PlayStation 3 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120515103052/http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-iii/ps3-886158 |archive-date=May 15, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War: Ghost of Sparta|God of War]]''''' was first released in North America on November 2, 2010, for the PlayStation Portable. Set between the events of ''God of War'' and ''Betrayal'', the God of War Kratos is still haunted by visions of his mortal past and embarks on a quest to discover his origins by finding his mother, Callisto. He learns that his brother Deimos was taken by the gods and imprisoned by the God of Death, [[Religion:Thanatos|Thanatos]], and decides to find and save his sibling. Although successful, Thanatos engages the brothers in combat, and kills Deimos. Kratos then kills Thanatos and returns to Olympus, further enraged at the gods.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta/psp-735806 |title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta&nbsp;– PlayStation Portable |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120517010536/http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta/psp-735806 |archive-date=May 17, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War: Ascension|God of War]]'''''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-ascension/ps3-121511 |title=God of War: Ascension&nbsp;– PlayStation 3 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511170536/http://www.ign.com/games/god-of-war-ascension/ps3-121511 |archive-date=May 11, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> was first released in North America on March 12, 2013, for the PlayStation 3.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/19/god-of-war-ascension-is-coming-to-ps3/ |title=God of War: Ascension is Coming to PS3 |date=April 19, 2012 |last=Pappy |first=Todd |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=April 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106071856/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/19/god-of-war-ascension-is-coming-to-ps3/ |archive-date=November 6, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It is the only game in the series to feature multiplayer, which is online-only for both competitive and [[Software:Cooperative video game|cooperative]] play.<ref name="Joystiq preview">{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer/ |title=God of War: Ascension takes godslaying online with multiplayer focus |date=April 30, 2012 |last=Matos |first=Xav de |publisher=AOL |work=Joystiq |access-date=May 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028012435/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer/ |archive-date=October 28, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/06/04/e3-2012-god-of-war-ascension-unleashes-on-ps3-next-march/ |title=E3 2012: God of War: Ascension Unleashes on PS3 Next March |date=June 4, 2012 |last=Papy |first=Todd |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=March 12, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109123022/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/06/04/e3-2012-god-of-war-ascension-unleashes-on-ps3-next-march/ |archive-date=November 9, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Predating ''Chains of Olympus'', the game is set roughly six months after Kratos was tricked into killing his wife and daughter, and sees him imprisoned by the three Furies for breaking his blood oath to Ares. With the help of the oath keeper and Ares' estranged son [[Religion:Horkos|Orkos]], Kratos learns that the God of War and the Furies plan to overthrow Mount Olympus and that Ares chose Kratos as his servant to help him for that very purpose. The Spartan escapes his imprisonment and eventually kills the Furies, as well as Orkos, who begs for release. Although free of Ares' bond, Kratos begins to suffer the nightmares that plague him for years.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.g4tv.com/thefeed/blog/post/727543/god-of-war-ascension-enemies-revealed-meet-the-furies/ |title=God of War: Ascension Enemies Revealed; Meet the Furies |date=August 31, 2012 |last=Gaskill |first=Jake |publisher=G4 Media |work=G4tv.com |access-date=September 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130114031102/http://www.g4tv.com/thefeed/blog/post/727543/god-of-war-ascension-enemies-revealed-meet-the-furies/ |archive-date=January 14, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Second era (Norse mythology)===
'''''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)#God of War: A Call from the Wilds|God of War: A Call from the Wilds]]''''' is a short [[Software:Text-based game|text-based game]], released through [[Software:Facebook Messenger|Facebook Messenger]] on February 1, 2018. The game serves as a prequel story to 2018's ''God of War'', and follows Atreus on his first adventure in the Norse wilds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/02/01/god-of-war-facebook-text-adventure-explores-atreus-past|title=God of War Facebook Text Adventure Explores Atreus' Past|date=February 1, 2018|last=Gilyadov|first=Alex|work=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=February 11, 2018|archive-date=April 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413203931/http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/02/01/god-of-war-facebook-text-adventure-explores-atreus-past|url-status=live}}</ref> Additionally, a smartphone companion app called ''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)#God of War: Mímir's Vision|Mimir's Vision]]'' released on April 17, 2018, and provides some background for the Norse setting.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.playstation.mimirsvision&hl=en_US&gl=US|title=God of War &#124; Mimir's Vision – Apps on Google Play|website=play.google.com|access-date=October 20, 2021|archive-date=September 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210910020327/https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.playstation.mimirsvision&hl=en_US&gl=US|url-status=live}}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)|God of War]]''''' was released worldwide on April 20, 2018, for the [[Engineering:PlayStation 4|PlayStation 4]], and for [[Software:Microsoft Windows|Windows]] (PC) through [[Software:Steam (service)|Steam]] on January 14, 2022, which marked the first main installment released on a non-PlayStation platform.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2022-01-12|title=PCGamesN - God of War PC release time confirmed - Steam News|url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/god-of-war/pc-release-time|access-date=2022-01-21|website=www.pcgamesn.com|language=en}}</ref> The game was a new direction for the series, not only by its new mythological setting, but also by its gameplay. Many years after the events of ''God of War III'', Kratos has ended up in the world of Norse mythology in ancient {{wipe|Norway}} in the realm of [[Religion:Midgard|Midgard]], and has a son named Atreus. After Kratos' second wife—Atreus' mother—Faye passes away, the two set out on a journey to fulfill her final wish of spreading her ashes at the highest peak of the [[Norse cosmology|nine realms]], later revealed to be in Jötunheim by new ally Mímir. Along their journey, they are attacked by the [[Religion:Æsir|Æsir]] god Baldur, who was sent by the Allfather [[Religion:Odin|Odin]] to get to Faye in order to prevent [[Unsolved:Ragnarök|Ragnarök]], unaware she had died. After Kratos eventually kills Baldur, the three-year-long Fimbulwinter begins, with Ragnarök soon to follow. While Baldur's mother, the Vanir goddess Freya, swears revenge on Kratos, he and Atreus complete their journey and discover that Faye was a Giant who had foreseen the future and that Atreus was originally named Loki.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2018/01/23/god-of-war-will-release-in-april.aspx|title=God Of War Releases On April 20|last=Juba|first=Joe|magazine=Game Informer|publisher=[[Company:GameStop|GameStop]]|date=January 23, 2018|access-date=January 23, 2018|archive-date=April 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413202026/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2018/01/23/god-of-war-will-release-in-april.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>

'''''[[Software:God of War Ragnarök|God of War Ragnarök]]''''' was released worldwide on November 9, 2022, for the PlayStation 4 and the [[Engineering:PlayStation 5|PlayStation 5]], marking the first cross-gen release in the series.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hermen Hulst Q&A: What's Next for PlayStation Studios|url=https://blog.playstation.com/2021/06/02/hermen-hulst-qa-whats-next-for-playstation-studios/#sf246401757|last=Shuman|first=Sid|date=June 2, 2021|access-date=June 2, 2021|website=PlayStation.Blog|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]|archive-date=June 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603203837/https://blog.playstation.com/2021/06/02/hermen-hulst-qa-whats-next-for-playstation-studios/#sf246401757|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="release-date-confirmed">{{Cite web |date=July 6, 2022 |title=God of War Ragnarök launches November 9, new CG trailer revealed |url=https://blog.playstation.com/2022/07/06/god-of-war-ragnarok-launches-november-9-new-cg-trailer-revealed/ |last=Orlady |first=Grace |access-date=July 6, 2022 |work=PlayStation.Blog |publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]] |language=en-US}}</ref> At the end of the three-year Fimbulwinter, Kratos, Atreus, and Mímir are confronted by Odin and the God of Thunder [[Religion:Thor|Thor]]. After dueling Thor, the three set out on a journey across the nine realms in hopes of finding a way to prevent the world-ending event, Ragnarök. Along the way, they are confronted by a vengeful Freya, but they eventually make amends. Unable to prevent Ragnarök—which is discovered to only destroy [[Unsolved:Asgard|Asgard]], the home of the Æsir—Kratos, Atreus, and their allies unite the realms in a war against the Æsir gods in their home realm. Kratos battles Thor once again, but Thor is killed by Odin for refusing to kill Kratos. Kratos, Atreus, Mímir, and Freya then engage Odin in battle and defeat the Allfather as Asgard is destroyed. Returning home to Midgard, Atreus, as Loki, decides that he needs to go and find any remaining Giants and bids a heartfelt farewell while Kratos learns that he is destined to become a revered god. Along with Freya and Mímir, they begin to rebuild the realms and restore peace.<ref>{{Citation|title=PlayStation Showcase 2021 [ENGLISH]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5VtfD2i3rc|language=en|access-date=2021-09-09|archive-date=October 20, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020011036/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5VtfD2i3rc|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-09-10 |title=God Of War Ragnarök: Who Kratos & Atreus Are Looking For |url=https://screenrant.com/god-war-ragnarok-who-kratos-atreus-find-tyr/ |access-date=2022-04-15 |website=ScreenRant |language=en-US}}</ref> A free [[Software:Downloadable content|downloadable content]] pack titled ''Valhalla'' was released on December 12, 2023, and serves as an epilogue to ''Ragnarök'', following Kratos and Mímir in a series of trials in [[Unsolved:Valhalla|Valhalla]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/god-of-war-ragnarok-valhalla-is-free-roguelike-dlc-that-launches-next-week-game-awards-2023|title=God of War Ragnarok Valhalla Is Free Roguelike DLC That Launches Next Week {{!}} Game Awards 2023|date=December 7, 2023|last=Cripe|first=Michael|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=December 7, 2023}}</ref> In this additional DLC, Kratos is invited to Valhalla by an anonymous challenger to help assist face his past and complete the ultimate Quest to conclude his journey, where he meets challenges from his long avoided Past, and ultimately accepts it, becoming the God of Hope at last.

===Collections and remasters===
'''''God of War Collection''''' was first released in North America on November 17, 2009, for the PlayStation 3—the franchise's first appearance on the platform. It is a remastered port of the original ''God of War ''and ''God of War II''.<ref name="HD">{{cite web|last=Sliwinski |first=Alexander |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/classics-hd-line-for-ps3-in-europe-starting-with-sly-collecti/ |title='Classics HD' line for PS3 in Europe, starting with Sly Collection and God of War |publisher=AOL |work=Joystiq |date=June 28, 2010 |access-date=July 5, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028012454/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/classics-hd-line-for-ps3-in-europe-starting-with-sly-collecti/ |archive-date=October 28, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The games were ported by [[Company:Bluepoint Games|Bluepoint Games]] and feature high-definition [[Engineering:1080p|1080p]] [[Multisample anti-aliasing|anti-aliased]] graphics at 60 frames per second and trophies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/10/god-of-war-collection-ships-november-17th-plan-your-trophy-hunt-now/ |title=God of War Collection Ships November 17th, Plan Your Trophy Hunt Now! |last=Caiazzo |first=Anthony |date=October 27, 2009 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=November 3, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120925092724/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/10/27/god-of-war-collection-ships-november-17th-plan-your-trophy-hunt-now/ |archive-date=September 25, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Company:Sanzaru Games|Sanzaru Games]] later ported the collection to the [[Engineering:PlayStation Vita|PlayStation Vita]] and it was released in May 2014—the franchise's only appearance on this platform.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/02/10/god-of-war-collection-coming-to-ps-vita-may-6th/ |title=God of War Collection Coming to PS Vita May 6th |date=February 10, 2014 |last=Barlog |first=Cory |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=February 11, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205024513/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2014/02/10/god-of-war-collection-coming-to-ps-vita-may-6th/ |archive-date=February 5, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

'''''God of War: Origins Collection''''' was first released in North America on September 13, 2011, for the PlayStation 3. It is a remastered port of the two PlayStation Portable installments in the series—''Chains of Olympus'' and ''Ghost of Sparta''. ''God of War Origins'' was ported by Ready at Dawn and features 1080p high-definition video, anti-aliased graphics at 60 frames per second, DualShock 3 rumble features, trophies,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2011/09/13/god-of-war-origins-collection-trophies-guide-ps3.htm |title=God of War: Origins Collection Trophies Guide (PS3) |date=September 13, 2011 |author=Josh |publisher=Video Games Blogger |access-date=May 2, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111228172907/http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2011/09/13/god-of-war-origins-collection-trophies-guide-ps3.htm |archive-date=December 28, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and it is the only ''God of War'' release to feature Stereoscopic 3D.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/06/07/god-of-war-origins-collection-coming-in-3d-watch-the-trailer/ |title=God of War: Origins Collection Coming in 3D, Watch the Trailer |date=June 7, 2011 |last=Turndorf |first=Marc |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=June 9, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121125065842/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/06/07/god-of-war-origins-collection-coming-in-3d-watch-the-trailer/ |archive-date=November 25, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

'''''God of War Saga''''' was released in North America on August 28, 2012. It is a collection of five of the ''God of War'' games for the PlayStation 3, released as part of Sony's PlayStation Collections line. The collection includes the original ''God of War'', ''God of War II'', ''God of War III'', ''Chains of Olympus'', and ''Ghost of Sparta''. It features two [[Engineering:Blu-ray|Blu-ray]] Discs—''God of War I'' and ''II'' on the first and ''III'' on the second—and a voucher to download ''Chains of Olympus'' and ''Ghost of Sparta''. The games retain the same features as their first PS3 releases.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/08/06/never-stop-playing-with-playstation-collections/ |title=Never Stop Playing With PlayStation Collections |date=August 6, 2012 |last=Cardona |first=Christian |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=August 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105062450/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/08/06/never-stop-playing-with-playstation-collections/ |archive-date=November 5, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/08/28/playstation-collections-available-at-retail-today-god-of-war-infamous-ratchet-clank/ |title=PlayStation Collections Available at Retail Today: God of War, inFAMOUS, Ratchet & Clank |date=August 28, 2012 |last=Cardona |first=Cristian |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=August 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121218110454/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/08/28/playstation-collections-available-at-retail-today-god-of-war-infamous-ratchet-clank/ |archive-date=December 18, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

'''''God of War III Remastered''''' was first released in North America on July 14, 2015, for the PlayStation 4—the franchise's first appearance on the platform. It is a remastered version of ''God of War III'', and features full 1080p support targeted at 60 frames per second, a photo mode, and all downloadable content of the original. The game's announcement and release was in celebration of the franchise's tenth anniversary.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/03/20/god-of-war-iii-remastered-coming-to-ps4-on-july-14th/ |title=God of War III Remastered Coming to PS4 on July 14th |date=March 20, 2015 |last=Barlog |first=Cory |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=March 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402121949/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/03/20/god-of-war-iii-remastered-coming-to-ps4-on-july-14th/ |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> It was ported by Wholesale Algorithms.<ref name="10th">{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/07/14/god-of-war-iii-remastered-out-today-on-ps4/ |title=God of War III Remastered Out Today on PS4 |date=July 14, 2015 |last=Velasquez |first=Bruno |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=July 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304093254/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/07/14/god-of-war-iii-remastered-out-today-on-ps4/ |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Gameplay==
The series consists of eight [[Software:Single-player video game|single-player-only games]], and one that includes multiplayer. Throughout the first era, the games featured a third-person, [[Software:Virtual camera system#Fixed|fixed]] cinematic camera with the exception of ''Betrayal'', which is the only installment to feature a 2D side-scrolling view.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://news.verizonwireless.com/news/2007/06/pr2007-06-20.html |title=Sony Pictures Television Launches God Of War: Betrayal For Verizon Wireless Subscribers |date=June 20, 2007 |last=Nelson |first=Jeffrey |work=Verizon Wireless News Center |publisher=[[Company:Verizon Communications|Verizon Communications]] |access-date=May 30, 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130615085341/http://news.verizonwireless.com/news/2007/06/pr2007-06-20.html |archive-date=June 15, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> For 2018's ''God of War'' and ''Ragnarök'', the camera was switched from being fixed and became an [[Software:Virtual camera system#Interactive|over-the-shoulder free camera]].<ref name="GS-E32016">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-revealed-for-ps4-at-e3-2016/1100-6440819/|title=God of War Revealed for PS4 at E3 2016|date=June 13, 2016|last1=Newhouse|first1=Alex|last2=Crossley|first2=Rob|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=GameSpot|access-date=June 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413194458/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-revealed-for-ps4-at-e3-2016/1100-6440819/|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> A first-person camera is featured in ''God of War III''<ref name="GoW3manual">{{Harvnb|Santa Monica Studio, ed.|(2010)|pages=6–7|ref=GoW3manual}}</ref> and ''Ascension''<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Software:God of War: Ascension|God of War]]|developer=[[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]|publisher=[[Software:Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|year=2013|platform=[[Engineering:PlayStation 3|PlayStation 3]]|scene=Castor and Pollux}}</ref> during certain scripted sequences. Throughout the series, the player controls the character Kratos in a combination of [[Software:Hack and slash|hack and slash]] combat, [[Software:Platform game|platforming]], and [[Software:Puzzle video game|puzzle game]] elements to achieve goals and complete the story (platforming elements were removed from the second era games due to the camera change).<ref name="GoWCmanual">{{Harvnb|Santa Monica Studio, ed.|(2009)|pages=6–7|ref=GoWCmanual}}</ref><ref>{{Harvnb|Santa Monica Studio, ed.|(2009)|pages=9–10|ref=GoWCmanual}}</ref> The 2018 installment added Kratos' son Atreus, and although the game is played entirely as Kratos, there are times when the player may choose to passively control Atreus (a button is dedicated to Atreus, and he will fire an arrow from his bow depending on where the camera is pointed).<ref name="TakeKratosSeriously">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-director-on-the-challenge-of-making/1100-6440945/|title=God of War PS4 Director on the Challenge of Making People Take Kratos Seriously|date=June 15, 2016|last=Hussain|first=Tamoor|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=GameSpot|access-date=June 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413193941/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-director-on-the-challenge-of-making/1100-6440945/|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> While Atreus is still an accompanying character in ''Ragnarök'' (in addition to a couple of other characters), there are some story missions where the player takes full control of Atreus; his combat is similar to Kratos' but he uses a bow.<ref name="Forbes-gameplay">{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2022/11/12/god-of-war-ragnarok-what-i-couldnt-talk-about-in-my-review/|title=God Of War Ragnarok: What I Couldn't Talk About In My Review|date=November 12, 2022|last=Tassi|first=Paul|work={{wipe|Forbes}}|publisher=Integrated Whale Media Investments|access-date=November 12, 2022}}</ref>

Throughout the Greek games, Kratos' main weapon is a pair of [[Software:Dual wield|double-chained blades]] that appear in three iterations: the Blades of Chaos, the Blades of Athena (or Athena's Blades), and the Blades of Exile. They each perform similarly, but differ in the types of [[Software:Combo (video gaming)|combo]]s and amount of damage each yields, as well as cosmetic differences. Other weapons are also obtained during the games and vary in gameplay.<ref name="GoWCmanual2">{{Harvnb|Santa Monica Studio, ed.|(2009)|pages=12–13|ref=GoWCmanual}}</ref> Magic is also used, and four abilities are typically acquired.<ref>{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn, ed.|(2008)|page=12|ref=CoOmanual}}</ref> ''God of War III'' differs in that instead of separate abilities, there are four primary weapons that possess their own respective magic offensive. The game also features "Items"—additional secondary weapons with limited usage, such as the Bow of [[Unsolved:Apollo|Apollo]].<ref name="GoW3manual"/> With each new game, most weapons and magic are lost via a plot device, and a new arsenal of weapons and abilities are acquired during gameplay.<ref>{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn|(2010)|pages=7|ref=GoSmanual}}</ref> ''Ascension'' differs from the previous games in that instead of acquiring new weapons that are kept throughout the entire game, the player collects up to five World Weapons (such as a sword or a javelin) that have limited usage. When there is not a World Weapon equipped, the player can punch or kick foes as part of a new mechanic added to the game.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2013/02/07/hands-on-with-god-of-war-ascension/ |title=Hands-On with God of War: Ascension |date=February 7, 2013 |last=Shuman |first=Sid |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=February 7, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130210110541/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2013/02/07/hands-on-with-god-of-war-ascension/ |archive-date=February 10, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In the Norse games, Kratos' primary weapon is a magical battle axe called the Leviathan Axe. It can be thrown and summoned back to his hand, similar to [[Religion:Thor|Thor]]'s hammer [[Mjölnir]]. Later on in 2018's ''God of War'', he recovers the Blades of Chaos, which is retained in ''Ragnarök''. They perform similarly as they did during the Greek games, but with different abilities. Both the Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos, as well as the Draupnir Spear introduced in ''Ragnarök'', can be upgraded to use special magical attacks called runic attacks. Each weapon has a light and heavy runic attack, and the player can choose which runic attacks to equip on the weapons.<ref name="axeorigin">{{cite web|url=http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2017/12/13/god-of-war-podcast-details-the-origin-of-the-leviathan-axe/|title=Latest God of War Podcast Episode Details the Origin of the Leviathan Axe|date=December 13, 2017|last=Henges|first=Elizabeth|publisher=CraveOnline|work=PlayStation LifeStyle|access-date=December 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413185953/http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2017/12/13/god-of-war-podcast-details-the-origin-of-the-leviathan-axe/|archive-date=April 13, 2018|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

The series offers combo-based combat, and includes a quick time event (QTE) feature, also called context sensitive attacks, which is initiated when the player has weakened a foe or to perform a defensive maneuver. It allows limited control of Kratos during the QTE cinematic sequence; success ends the battle, while failure usually results in damage to the player.<ref name="GoW3manual"/><ref name="CoOmanual">{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn, ed.|(2008)|pages=4 & 10–12|ref=CoOmanual}}</ref> As well as the QTE system, ''Ascension'' features a prompt-less free-form system, allowing players the choice of when to attack or dodge based on the enemy's actions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/06/05/e3-2012-god-of-war-ascension-single-player-revealed |title=E3 2012: God of War: Ascension Single-Player Revealed, Releasing March 2013 |date=June 4, 2012 |last=Dyer |first=Mitch |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120617192918/http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/06/05/e3-2012-god-of-war-ascension-single-player-revealed |archive-date=June 17, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> A grab maneuver can be used on minor foes.<ref name="GoSmanual"/> The Norse games changed this up; after an enemy has been weakened enough, a prompt will appear above its head, and depending on the enemy, Kratos may rip it in half or grab them and throw them into other enemies, among other possible outcomes. He will also jump on top of and ride large enemies, such as ogres, causing them to attack other enemies, similar to the cyclopes in the Greek games.<ref name="GIp42">{{harvnb|ref=GIcoverstory|Juba|2018|p=42}}</ref>
[[Image:God of war action.jpg|thumb|left|150px|A cropped gameplay screenshot from the original ''God of War'' (2005): weakening foes allows the use of controller buttons for greater damage or finishing moves. This gameplay mechanic has been utilized throughout the series.|alt=Two video game characters fight in a brown-colored room with mystical symbols.]]
Relics, which the player can use in successive games (such as Poseidon's Trident obtained in the original ''God of War'' allowing Kratos to swim underwater for extended periods) are also found and necessary for game progression.<ref name="GoWCmanual"/> Kratos often has a special ability, which provides temporary invulnerability and increased attack damage. This ability has become an ongoing feature of gameplay throughout the series—Rage of the Gods in the original ''God of War'' and ''Ascension'', Rage of the Titans in ''God of War II'', Rage of Sparta in ''God of War III'', and Thera's Bane in ''Ghost of Sparta''.<ref name="GoW3manual"/> This ability can be recharged by building hits on foes in combat, and gaining game-specific orbs. Thera's Bane, however, is recharged automatically.<ref name="GoW3manual"/><ref name="GoWCmanual"/><ref name="GoSmanual">{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn, ed.|(2010)|pages=2 & 7|ref=GoSmanual}}</ref> While Kratos does not retain any relics from the Greek era in 2018's ''God of War'', he does have a rage ability, called Spartan Rage, and with this ability, Kratos uses powerful bare-handed attacks, as opposed to weapons, to greatly damage enemies.<ref name="GS-E32016"/><ref name="GIp41">{{harvnb|ref=GIcoverstory|Juba|2018|p=41}}</ref> ''Ragnarök'' enhanced the Spartan Rage ability, giving two other variants, one providing health and another delivering a powerful weapon attack depending on the weapon equipped.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pushsquare.com/guides/god-of-war-ragnarok-all-spartan-rages-locations-and-upgrades|title=God of War Ragnarok: All Spartan Rages Locations and Upgrades|date=November 8, 2022|last=Barker|first=Sammy|work=Push Square|publisher=Gamer Network|access-date=November 14, 2022}}</ref>

[[Unsolved:Gorgon|Gorgon]] Eyes and [[Unsolved:Phoenix (mythology)|Phoenix]] Feathers, found throughout the Greek games in unmarked [[Software:Power-up|chests]] (white chests in ''Ascension''), increase the maximum amount of [[Software:Health (game terminology)|health]] and magic, respectively.<ref name="GoWCmanual"/><ref>{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn, ed.|(2008)|p=8|ref=CoOmanual}}</ref> [[Unsolved:Minotaur|Minotaur]] Horns, which increase the Items and Fire meter's maximum length, are available in ''God of War III'' and ''Ghost of Sparta'', respectively. The Items meter allows the use of secondary weapons, called Items, and the Fire meter allows the use of the Thera's Bane ability. The meters are increased in increments and reach their maximum once a certain number of Eyes, Feathers, and Horns are found. Other chests contain green, blue, or red [[Software:Power-up#Token abilities|orbs]].<ref>{{Harvnb|Santa Monica Studio, ed.|(2010)|p=10|ref=GoW3manual}}</ref> Green orbs replenish the player's health, blue orbs replenish magic allowing further usage, and red orbs provide [[Software:Experience point|experience point]]s (XP) for upgrading weapons and magic for new, more powerful attacks, and replenish the Rage meter in the original ''God of War''. Gold orbs found in ''God of War II'' and ''Ascension'', and white orbs in ''God of War III'', replenish the Rage meter instead of red orbs; the Rage meter in ''Ascension'' is also refilled by landing attacks on foes. Chests with changing colors, which allow players to choose which meter to replenish, have also been available.<ref>{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn, ed.|(2010)|p=6|ref=GoSmanual}}</ref> Red orbs can also be collected by killing foes and destroying certain inanimate objects. Bosses and more powerful opponents release a combination of colored orbs when killed via the quick-time feature.<ref name="GoWCmanual"/> For the Norse games, [[Biology:Golden apple|Apples]] of Iðunn replaced the Gorgon Eyes to increase the maximum length of the health meter, while Horns of [[Chemistry:Mead|Blood Mead]] increase the maximum length of the rage meter. The Norse games change the green and red orbs to stones, which need to be stomped in order to replenish the health and rage meters. Magic is also done differently. Instead of collecting blue orbs to replenish magic, there is a cool down time on magical runic attacks, and once that cool down time is up, the magical runic attack can be used again. Furthermore, players accumulate different crafting resources, primarily Hacksilver, to create and purchase new [[Software:Item (gaming)|items]], such as new armor or upgrading existing armor and weapons, and XP is used for learning new combat skills. Chests in the Norse games provide a variety of different items.<ref name="MadeMeCare">{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/06/14/e3-2016-god-of-war-made-me-care-about-the-series-for-the-first-time|title=E3 2016: God of War Made Me Care About The Series For The First Time|date=June 14, 2016|last=Sliva|first=Marty|publisher=Ziff Davis|work=IGN|access-date=June 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413195831/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/06/14/e3-2016-god-of-war-made-me-care-about-the-series-for-the-first-time|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref><ref name="newgameplay">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-god-of-war-set-after-third-game-wont-be-open-w/1100-6440887/?ftag=GSS-05-10aaa0a|title=New God of War Set After Third Game, Won't Be Open World|date=June 14, 2016|last=Paget|first=Mat|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=GameSpot|access-date=June 15, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413194345/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-god-of-war-set-after-third-game-wont-be-open-w/1100-6440887/?ftag=GSS-05-10aaa0a|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref>

With the exception of ''Ascension'', each installment offers a challenge mode, which yields extra red orbs (or XP), secret costumes, and behind-the-scenes videos.<ref>{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn, ed.|(2008)|p=5|ref=CoOmanual}}</ref> [[Software:Unlockable (gaming)|Bonus content]] can also be unlocked by defeating the game's difficulty levels.<ref>{{Harvnb|Ready at Dawn, ed.|(2010)|p=3|ref=GoSmanual}}</ref> The Norse games also include a challenge mode, located in the realm Muspelheim, which rewards various items upon completion. Battle arenas, which allow players to set difficulty levels and choose their own opponents, are included in ''God of War II'', ''God of War III'', and ''Ghost of Sparta''.<ref>{{Harvnb|Santa Monica Studio, ed.|(2010)|p=11|ref=GoW3manual}}</ref> Excluding ''Betrayal'', the Greek games were known for including a quick-time sex [[Software:Minigame|minigame]] in each installment until ''Ascension'', which dropped the mini-game.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maxim.com/gaming/the-10-most-important-sex-scenes-recent-video-games |title=The 10 Most Important Sex Scenes in Recent Video Games |date=October 7, 2011 |last=Gaudiosi |first=John |publisher=Alpha Media Group |work=Maxim.com |access-date=July 27, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120902134008/http://www.maxim.com/gaming/the-10-most-important-sex-scenes-recent-video-games |archive-date=September 2, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

''Ascension'' is the only installment in the series to feature multiplayer, which is [[Software:Online game|online-only]] for both competitive and cooperative play. Up to eight players on two teams of two to four players (or a four to eight player [[Software:Deathmatch (video games)|deathmatch]]) battle for control of a map in order to earn rewards from the gods. Players can also fight each other in one-on-one matches. Players must sell their champion's soul to either Zeus, Hades, Ares, or Poseidon, which allows players to try different weapons, armor sets, and powers inspired by the god of their choice, and extras can be unlocked.<ref name="Joystiq preview"/><ref>{{Harvnb|Santa Monica Studio, ed.|(2013)|pages=4, 6–10, & 18–25|ref=GoWAmanual}}</ref>
{{Clear}}

==Development==
===Main series===
[[File:Cory barlog gdc 2019 (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright|Cory Barlog, one of the main contributors to the ''God of War'' series; to date, he has worked on six games, with his most notable roles being game director of 2007's ''God of War II'' and 2018's ''God of War'']]

====PlayStation 2====
After the success of their first game ''[[Software:Kinetica|Kinetica]]'' (2001), [[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]] began development of the original ''God of War'' in 2002, and unveiled it two years later at [[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|SCEA]] Santa Monica Gamers' Day 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/493/493536p1.html |title=SCEA Santa Monica Gamers' Day: Sony Announces God of War |date=February 19, 2004 |last=Dunham |first=Jeremy |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=June 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140219215217/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/02/20/scea-santa-monica-gamers-day-sony-announces-god-of-war |archive-date=February 19, 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Game director and creator David Jaffe said that although the idea for ''God of War'' was his own, the concept owed a debt to [[Company:Capcom|Capcom]] because he had played ''[[Software:Onimusha|Onimusha]]'' and said "let's do that with [[Religion:Greek mythology|Greek mythology]]".<ref name="DJeuroint"/> He was inspired in part by the 1981 [[Engineering:Feature film|feature film]], ''Clash of the Titans'', saying, "the real high concept for me was&nbsp;... merging it with ''Heavy Metal'' magazine".<ref name="DJeuroint"/> He said he liked both "the kids stuff&nbsp;... with Greek mythology" and the idea of adding more adult themes such as sex and violence.<ref name="DJeuroint">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/i_godofwar_ps2 |title=Godlike |date=July 11, 2005 |last=Reed |first=Krisan |publisher=Eurogamer Network |work=Eurogamer |access-date=June 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108135508/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/i_godofwar_ps2 |archive-date=November 8, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> He was also inspired by the 1981 film ''Raiders of the Lost Ark''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/130957/dice_feature_the_search_for_.php |title=DICE Feature: 'The Search For Perfection: David Jaffe Goes To War' |date=February 10, 2006 |last=Cifaldi |first=Frank |publisher=Think Services |work=Gamasutra |access-date=November 13, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109031253/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/130957/dice_feature_the_search_for_.php |archive-date=November 9, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Although the game is based on Greek mythology, the development team gave themselves "lots of freedom" to modify the myths, and Jaffe said they took the "coolest aspects of the subject" and created art and story using those elements.<ref name="IGN6/10/04"/> Director of visual development and lead concept artist, Charlie Wen, drew inspiration from these films as well as more contemporary films such as ''Gladiator'' (2000) for tonal inspiration to lead the visual design of Kratos, other characters, and the world of ''God of War''.<ref name="IGN6/10/04">{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/522/522557p1.html|title=God of War Interview|date=June 10, 2004|last=Lewis|first=Ed|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|work=IGN|access-date=June 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114095213/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/06/10/god-of-war-interview|archive-date=November 14, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> The gameplay of the ''[[Software:Strider (1989 arcade game)|Strider]]'' arcade franchise was also a vital influence on ''God of War'',<ref>{{cite web |last=Fahey |first=Rob |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/strider-1-2-review |title=Strider 1/2 • |work=Eurogamer |publisher=Gamer Network |date=January 1, 2007 |access-date=September 7, 2020 |archive-date=January 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127162324/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/strider-1-2-review |url-status=live }}</ref> and the developers described the gameplay "as merging the action of ''[[Software:Devil May Cry|Devil May Cry]]'' with the puzzle-solving of ''[[Software:Ico|Ico]]''" and noted that players would be able to "sunder enemies with a single move, such as by ripping them in half".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/god-of-war/previews/god-of-war-e3-2004-hands-on-impressions-6097956/ |title=God of War E3 2004 Hands-On Impressions |date=May 12, 2004 |last=Shoemaker |first=Brad |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=GameSpot |access-date=November 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130124000012/http://www.gamespot.com/god-of-war/previews/god-of-war-e3-2004-hands-on-impressions-6097956/ |archive-date=January 24, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The game uses Santa Monica's Kinetica [[Software:Game engine|engine]], which they developed for ''Kinetica''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/03/21/the-house-that-god-of-war-built-sony-santa-monica |title=The House That God of War Built: Sony Santa Monica |first=Colin |last=Moriarty |date=March 21, 2012 |publisher=Ziff Davis |work=IGN |access-date=March 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402170550/http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/03/21/the-house-that-god-of-war-built-sony-santa-monica |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

A sequel to ''God of War'' was first teased at the end of its credits, which stated, "Kratos Will Return".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/columns/extra-punctuation/7417-Kratos.2 |title=Kratos |date=April 13, 2010 |last=Croshaw |first=Ben |publisher=Themis Group |work=The Escapist |access-date=June 22, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515160723/http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/columns/extra-punctuation/7417-Kratos.2 |archive-date=May 15, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War II'' was officially announced at the 2006 [[Software:Game Developers Conference|Game Developers Conference]] (GDC).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/697/697619p1.html |title=GDC 06: God of War II Announced |date=March 22, 2006 |author=Nix |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=June 16, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131027130447/http://www.ign.com/articles/2006/03/22/gdc-06-god-of-war-ii-announced |archive-date=October 27, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> David Jaffe stepped down and became the creative director of its sequel and ''God of War''{{'}}s lead animator Cory Barlog assumed the role of game director.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/141892/interviews/god-of-war-ii/?page=1#top_banner |title=God of War II |page=1 |date=June 21, 2006 |last=Houlihan |first=John |publisher=Future plc |work=Computer and Video Games |access-date=December 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141209145047/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/141892/interviews/god-of-war-ii/?page=1 |archive-date=December 9, 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> Barlog said that in the game, players would see "a larger view of Kratos' role within the mythological world."<ref name="CVG2">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/141892/interviews/god-of-war-ii/?page=2#top_banner |title=God of War II |page=2 |date=June 21, 2006 |last=Houlihan |first=John |publisher=Future plc |work=Computer and Video Games |access-date=December 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202092210/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/141892/interviews/god-of-war-ii/?page=2 |archive-date=December 2, 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> Like ''God of War'', the game uses Santa Monica's Kinetica engine. Magic attacks became an integral part of the combat system and it was more refined. New creatures and heroes from the mythology, and more boss battles were added.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/141892/interviews/god-of-war-ii/?page=3#top_banner |title=God of War II |page=3 |date=June 21, 2006 |last=Houlihan |first=John |publisher=Future plc |work=Computer and Video Games |access-date=December 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202092207/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/141892/interviews/god-of-war-ii/?page=3 |archive-date=December 2, 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> Both Jaffe and Barlog said that they did not view ''God of War II'' as a sequel, but rather a continuation of the previous game. Jaffe said that they did not want to include the Roman numeral number two (II) in the title for this reason, but they did not want the title to convey the impression it was an [[Software:Expansion pack|expansion pack]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYc9oa0c4JE |title=God of War II PlayStation 2 Interview&nbsp;– David Jaffe and Cory Barlog |publisher=IGN Entertainment |work=IGN [[Company:YouTube|YouTube]] channel |date=May 21, 2011 |access-date=June 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120123223739/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYc9oa0c4JE |archive-date=January 23, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Both Jaffe and Barlog said that the reason ''God of War II'' appeared on the PlayStation 2 instead of the PlayStation 3—which was released four months prior to ''God of War II''—was because "there's a 100 million people out there that will be able to play ''God of War II'' as soon as it launches."<ref name="PALGN7/26/06"/><ref name="Spike5/5/06"/> Barlog assured that the game would be playable on the newer platform, which originally had PlayStation 2 [[Backward compatibility|backwards compatibility]].<ref name="PALGN7/26/06">{{cite web|url=http://palgn.com.au/playstation-2/4950/god-of-war-ii-interview/ |title=God of War II interview |date=July 26, 2006 |last=Leigh |first=Chris |website=PALGN |access-date=June 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016224740/http://palgn.com.au/playstation-2/4950/god-of-war-ii-interview/ |archive-date=October 16, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="Spike5/5/06">{{cite web|url=http://www.spike.com/video-clips/0t973v/god-of-war-ii-gametrailers-interview-with-david-jaffe |title=God of War II&nbsp;– GameTrailers Interview with David Jaffe |date=May 5, 2006 |publisher=Viacom |work=[[Spike.com]] |access-date=August 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611125110/http://www.spike.com/video-clips/0t973v/god-of-war-ii-gametrailers-interview-with-david-jaffe |archive-date=June 11, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

====PlayStation 3====
''God of War III'' was first mentioned by Cory Barlog at a ''God of War II'' launch event,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3164206 |title=Cory Barlog Leaving SCEA |last=Leone |first=Matt |date=November 6, 2007 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=1UP |access-date=January 31, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102191456/http://www.1up.com/news/cory-barlog-leaving-scea |archive-date=November 2, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and it was officially announced at the 2008 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3168748 |title=E3 2008: ''God of War 3'' Teaser Trailer |last=Whiting |first=Mark |date=July 15, 2008 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=1UP |access-date=January 31, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130404075123/http://www.1up.com/news/e3-2008-god-war-3 |archive-date=April 4, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> After serving as game director during the first eight months of development, Barlog left Santa Monica for other opportunities and Stig Asmussen took on the role, having previously been the lead environment artist and art director on ''God of War'' and ''God of War II'', respectively. Asmussen said that one of the greatest challenges in developing ''God of War III'' for the PlayStation 3 was the "complexity of everything"; individual tasks, such as designing Helios' decapitation, could take a year because the "level of detail [that was] expected [was] so high and intricate, it [crossed] multiple departments."<ref name="IGN12/8/09"/><ref name="GamePro11/4/09"/> He said that the PlayStation 3's hardware capabilities allowed more flexibility in character creation and interaction with the environment.<ref name="IGN12/8/09">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/105/1052951p1.html|title=''God of War III'' Q&A|date=December 8, 2009|last=Roper|first=Chris|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|work=IGN|access-date=December 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140301180211/http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/12/08/god-of-war-iii-qa|archive-date=March 1, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="GamePro11/4/09">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/212635/god-of-war-3-director-reveals-plans-for-future-dlc-and-why-multiplayer-wont-work/|title=''God of War 3'' director reveals plans for future DLC and why multiplayer won't work&nbsp;– Page 1|date=November 4, 2009|last=Shaw|first=Patrick|publisher=IDG|magazine=GamePro|access-date=November 27, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091025020513/http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/212635/god-of-war-3-director-reveals-plans-for-future-dlc-and-why-multiplayer-wont-work/|archive-date=October 25, 2009|url-status=live}}</ref> The engine for ''God of War III'' was ported from the first two installments to the PlayStation 3. As the game was being developed, the code department swapped out PlayStation 2 components with PlayStation 3 components. They replaced the renderer, the particle system, and the collision system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/132688/interview_the_shape_of_god_of_war_.php?print=1 |title=Interview: The Shape of God of War III |last=Graft |first=Kris |publisher=UBM TechWeb |work=Gamasutra |date=March 17, 2010 |access-date=February 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303212449/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/132688/interview_the_shape_of_god_of_war_.php?print=1 |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> Although they were re-using the engine from ''God of War II'', the core engine for ''God of War III'' was brand new.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2009/02/13/joystiq-interview-god-of-war-3s-ken-feldman-art-director/ |title=Joystiq interview: God of War 3's Ken Feldman, art director |date=February 13, 2009 |last=Kelly |first=Kevin |publisher=AOL |work=[[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] |access-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402102724/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/13/joystiq-interview-god-of-war-3s-ken-feldman-art-director/ |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> Between E3 2009 and the time the game shipped, [[Spatial anti-aliasing|morphological anti-aliasing]] (MLAA) was added, which graphics engineer Ben Diamand said "improved edges dramatically and saved substantial amounts of frame-rate."<ref name="Euro5/4/13"/> Diamand also said that "depth-of-field, motion blur, crepuscular 'God' rays and refraction were either added or improved in quality and speed" during that same time period.<ref name="Euro5/4/13">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-how-sony-santa-monica-mastered-the-ps3 |title=How Sony Santa Monica mastered PlayStation 3 |date=May 4, 2013 |last=Morgan |first=Thomas |publisher=Eurogamer Network |work=Eurogamer |access-date=January 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150306202614/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-how-sony-santa-monica-mastered-the-ps3 |archive-date=March 6, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

On April 12, 2012, Sony released a teaser image for ''Ascension'' on its official PlayStation [[Company:Facebook|Facebook]] page,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150799764791803&set=a.10150739910736803.455680.14104316802&type=1|title=Cover Photos|date=April 12, 2012|author=PlayStation|publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America|work=[[Company:Facebook|Facebook]]|access-date=January 21, 2013|archive-date=March 29, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160329171056/https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150799764791803&set=a.10150739910736803.455680.14104316802&type=1|url-status=live}}</ref> which was followed by the game's announcement on April 19 on PlayStation.Blog.<ref>{{cite web|first=Todd |last=Papy |url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/19/god-of-war-ascension-is-coming-to-ps3/ |title=God of War: Ascension is Coming to PS3 |date=April 19, 2012 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=April 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106071856/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/19/god-of-war-ascension-is-coming-to-ps3/ |archive-date=November 6, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Todd Papy, who had previously worked as a designer on ''God of War'' and ''God of War II'' and as design director on ''God of War III'', assumed the role of game director; ''God of War III'' director Stig Asmussen was busy with another project at Santa Monica and did not work on ''Ascension''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://playstationlifestyle.net/2012/04/19/game-director-stig-asmussen-doing-cool-stuff-at-sony-santa-monica-not-god-of-war-ascension/ |title=Game Director Stig Asmussen "Doing Cool Stuff" at Sony Santa Monica, Not God Of War: Ascension |date=April 19, 2012 |last=Moss |first=Sebastian |publisher=AtomicOnline |work=PlayStation LifeStyle |access-date=June 12, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130107021330/http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2012/04/19/game-director-stig-asmussen-doing-cool-stuff-at-sony-santa-monica-not-god-of-war-ascension/ |archive-date=January 7, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The announcement officially confirmed the game's title and Papy said it was not titled ''God of War IV'' to avoid confusion because it is a prequel, rather than a sequel, to the trilogy.<ref name="Joystiq preview"/><ref name="4/30">{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/30/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-announcement-live-from-santa-monica-studio/ |title=God of War: Ascension&nbsp;– Multiplayer Announcement Live From Santa Monica Studio |date=April 30, 2012 |last=Papy |first=Todd |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=May 13, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121214201130/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/30/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-announcement-live-from-santa-monica-studio/ |archive-date=December 14, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The game features a retooled ''God of War III'' engine, enabling online multiplayer battles for up to eight players.<ref name="Joystiq preview"/> The decision to add multiplayer came about from curiosity, according to lead combat designer Jason McDonald. The multiplayer was first tested using Kratos, and McDonald said the testers had "a lot of fun".<ref name="PSBlog3/8/13"/> Seeing their reaction made the team feel that the multiplayer had value and they then began to put the "''God of War'' spin on it".<ref name="PSBlog3/8/13">{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2013/03/08/god-of-war-ascension-qa-taking-kratos-to-the-next-level/ |title=God of War: Ascension Q&A: Taking Kratos to the Next Level |date=March 8, 2013 |last=Dutton |first=Fred |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=February 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150512125929/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2013/03/08/god-of-war-ascension-qa-taking-kratos-to-the-next-level/ |archive-date=May 12, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In the developmental transition from ''God of War III'' to ''Ascension'', one of the graphics engineers, Cedric Perthuis, noted that the limits of the ''God of War III'' engine restricted artist creativity, so they "tried to remove or push those limits as far as possible without losing any performance."<ref name="Euro5/4/13"/> ''Ascension'' did not have a graphical leap over its predecessor like ''God of War III'' did. Dynamic lighting was added, which allowed for development of the Life Cycle gameplay mechanic. Particle effects were also greatly improved upon from ''God of War III''.<ref name="Euro5/4/13"/>

====PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5====
Santa Monica began work on the fifth main installment in 2014, which was confirmed by the returning Cory Barlog at the first annual PlayStation Experience on December 6 that year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-god-of-war-in-development-at-sony-santa-monica/1100-6424051/ |title=New God of War in Development at Sony Santa Monica |date=December 6, 2014 |last=Maiberg |first=Emanuel |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=GameSpot |access-date=December 7, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219155213/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-god-of-war-in-development-at-sony-santa-monica/1100-6424051/ |archive-date=February 19, 2015 |url-status=live |df=mdy }}</ref> The official announcement came at the 2016 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) with a gameplay demo,<ref name="GS-E32016" /> which also confirmed that Barlog had returned to the series as game director.<ref name="TakeKratosSeriously" /> The game was deliberately titled ''God of War'' with no numeral or subtitle because although it is a continuation of the series, "we [reimagined] everything."<ref name="WCCF"/><ref name="SegmentNext">{{cite web|url=http://segmentnext.com/2016/06/14/first-details-on-god-of-war-ps4-game-same-storyline-but-new-gameplay/|title=First Details on God of War PS4 Game; Same Storyline But New Gameplay|date=June 13, 2016|last=Lillah|first=Sarmad|publisher=SegmentNext.com|access-date=June 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413200101/https://segmentnext.com/2016/06/14/first-details-on-god-of-war-ps4-game-same-storyline-but-new-gameplay/|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> Other mythologies were also considered for the new setting, but Norse was picked to keep the focus on Kratos;<ref name="Egypt">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-06-15-god-of-war-team-considered-setting-the-new-game-in-egypt|title=God of War team considered setting the new game in Egypt|date=June 15, 2016|last=Bratt|first=Chris|work=Eurogamer|publisher=Gamer Network|access-date=June 15, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413200511/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-06-15-god-of-war-team-considered-setting-the-new-game-in-egypt|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> there was also consideration to use a different protagonist, but it was decided to keep Kratos as he "is intrinsically tied" to the series.<ref name="TakeKratosSeriously"/> In adapting the Norse myths, Barlog said there were so many different translations and interpretations, and just like they did with Greek mythology in the previous games, they found ways to parallel path things from the myths to fit their story.<ref>{{cite AV media|people=Barlog, Cory|date=March 5, 2018|title=God of War - Behind the Myths: An Interview with Cory Barlog <nowiki>|</nowiki> PS4|medium=[[Company:YouTube|YouTube]]|language=en|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxyEcgv34Rk|access-date=November 5, 2022|publisher=[[Engineering:PlayStation|PlayStation]], [[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]}}</ref> Most of the development team that worked on the original ''God of War'' worked on the new installment.<ref name="WCCF"/> They claimed that they matched the new gameplay with the same level of accessibility as the previous installments.<ref name="newgameplay" /> Some gameplay characteristics found in the previous installments were cut, such as jumping, swimming, and instant-death [[Software:Platform game|platforming challenges]]; these were cut due to the camera being closer to Kratos.<ref name="GIp38">{{harvnb|ref=GIcoverstory|Juba|2018|p=38}}</ref> Although ''Ascension'' had introduced multiplayer to the series, the team dropped the mode to focus on the single-player experience.<ref name="nomultiplayer">{{cite web|url=https://attackofthefanboy.com/news/e3-2016-god-war-ps4-wont-multiplayer-mode/|title=E3 2016: God of War PS4 Won't Have A Multiplayer Mode|date=June 18, 2016|last=Seeto|first=Damian|work=Attack of the Fanboy|publisher=Modern Media Group|access-date=February 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413194058/https://attackofthefanboy.com/news/e3-2016-god-war-ps4-wont-multiplayer-mode/|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> The Leviathan Axe was chosen as Kratos' new main weapon because the developers wanted a more grounded direction for the game.<ref name="developingaxe">{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/1/15/16894114/god-of-war-kratos-ax-combat|title=Here's how God of War is different with Kratos ax|date=January 15, 2018|last=Sarkar|first=Samit|work=Polygon|publisher=[[Company:Vox Media|Vox Media]]|access-date=February 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413200913/https://www.polygon.com/2018/1/15/16894114/god-of-war-kratos-ax-combat|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> Although the game never reaches this number, the enemy count was increased to be able to support up to 100 enemies on-screen; ''God of War III'' and ''Ascension'' could do up to 50.<ref name="WCCF">{{cite web|url=http://wccftech.com/god-wars-original-team-working-new-game-no-branching-story-confirmed/|title=God Of War Original Team Is Working On New Game, 100 Enemies On Screen Confirmed And More|date=June 24, 2016|last=De Meo|first=Francesco|publisher=WCCF Tech|access-date=July 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413200254/https://wccftech.com/god-wars-original-team-working-new-game-no-branching-story-confirmed/|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> Although the game was built for the standard PlayStation 4,<ref name="Nopublicdemo">{{cite web|url=http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2016/10/13/god-of-war-demo-ps4-pro/|title=God of War Designed for Standard PS4, Won't Have a Demo|last=Treese|first=Tyler|date=October 13, 2016|publisher=CraveOnline|work=PlayStation LifeStyle|access-date=February 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413191136/http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2016/10/13/god-of-war-demo-ps4-pro/|archive-date=April 13, 2018|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Barlog confirmed that it would "benefit from the power" of the [[Engineering:PlayStation 4 Pro|PlayStation 4 Pro]]; an updated version of the PlayStation 4 that can render games in [[4K resolution|4K resolution]] and was released a few months after ''God of War'' was announced.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=corybarlog|first=Cory|last=Barlog|number=787432956474327040|date=October 15, 2016|title=oh we will benefit from the power of the Pro, for sure. You just dont need a pro to getthe experience we intend.|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6yemtcH9u?url=https://twitter.com/corybarlog/status/787432956474327040|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> The game's story was estimated to take 25–35 hours to complete, which is significantly more than the previous four main installments, which each took an average of 10 hours to complete.<ref name="longgame">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-will-take-25-35-hours-to-complete/1100-6455531/|title=God Of War PS4 Will Take 25–35 Hours To Complete|date=December 8, 2017|last=Newhouse|first=Alex|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=GameSpot|access-date=December 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413194153/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-will-take-25-35-hours-to-complete/1100-6455531/|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> As part of Sony's larger efforts to port their first-party exclusive games to [[Software:Windows|Windows]], Santa Monica Studio announced in October 2021 that ''God of War'' would be released for Windows on January 14, 2022, with support for graphics options. This in turn marked the first main entry in the series to release on a non-PlayStation platform.<ref name="psblog windows">{{cite web | url = https://blog.playstation.com/2021/10/20/god-of-war-2018-is-coming-to-pc/ | title = God of War (2018) is coming to PC | first = Grace | last= Orlady | date = October 20, 2021 | access-date = October 20, 2021 | work = PlayStation Blog }}</ref>
 
Following the announcement of the 2018 installment in June 2016, Cory Barlog confirmed that the 2018 game would not be Kratos' last.<ref name="single-player-only">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-doesnt-include-multiplayer-wont-be-/1100-6441104/|title=God of War PS4 Doesn't Include Multiplayer, Won't Be Kratos's Last Game|date=June 21, 2016|last=Paget|first=Mat|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=GameSpot|access-date=June 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413193804/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-doesnt-include-multiplayer-wont-be-/1100-6441104/|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref> The ending of the 2018 installment also teased a sequel; it ended with Ragnarök looming, as well as a secret ending that showed a vision of the Æsir god Thor confronting Kratos and Atreus at the end of Fimbulwinter.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/god-of-war-ending-what-does-it-mean-spoiler-warning/|title=God of War ending - what does it mean? Spoiler Warning!|date=November 20, 2020|last=Hurley|first=Leon|work=GamesRadar+|publisher=Future US|access-date=February 5, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|publisher=Finder|url=https://www.finder.com.au/god-of-war-5-norse|title=Sony confirms God of War 5 will also be set in Norse mythology|date=April 8, 2018|access-date=April 9, 2018|first=Chris|last=Stead}}</ref> During the 2020 PlayStation 5 (PS5) Showcase event on September 16, a new ''God of War'' was officially announced for a 2021 release on the newer console.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blog.playstation.com/2020/09/16/playstation-5-launches-in-november-starting-at-399-for-ps5-digital-edition-and-499-for-ps5-with-ultra-hd-blu-ray-disc-drive/|title=PlayStation 5 launches in November, starting at $399 for PS5 Digital Edition and $499 for PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-Ray Disc Drive|last=Ryan|first=Jim|work=PlayStation.Blog|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]|date=September 16, 2020|access-date=September 20, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/ps5-god-of-war-2-sequel|title=God of War Ragnarok Announced for PS5|date=September 16, 2020|last=Kim|first=Matt T. M.|work=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=September 16, 2020}}</ref> When the game was first announced, it was only announced as a PS5 title; however, in June 2021, it was confirmed that the game would release on both the PS4 and PS5, marking the first cross-gen release in the series.<ref name="delayed2022">{{cite web|title=Hermen Hulst Q&A: What's Next for PlayStation Studios|url=https://blog.playstation.com/2021/06/02/hermen-hulst-qa-whats-next-for-playstation-studios/#sf246401757|last=Shuman|first=Sid|date=June 2, 2021|access-date=June 2, 2021|website=PlayStation.Blog|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]}}</ref> Development was partly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in the game being delayed to 2022.<ref name="GamesradarEWKSF">{{cite web |last1=Weber |first1=Rachel |title=God of War 2: Everything we know so far about Ragnarok on PS5 |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/god-of-war-2-sequel-ps5-release-date/ |work=GamesRadar+ |publisher=Future US |access-date=June 1, 2021}}</ref> In September 2021, the game's title was confirmed as ''God of War Ragnarök''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lima |first=Diego |date=September 9, 2021 |title=God of War Ragnarok: Primeiro trailer confirma título |trans-title=God of War Ragnarok: First trailer confirms title |url=https://www.theenemy.com.br/playstation/god-of-war-ragnarok-trailer-titulo |access-date=September 9, 2021 |website=The Enemy |language=pt-BR}}</ref><ref name="release-date-confirmed">{{Cite web |date=July 6, 2022 |title=God of War Ragnarök launches November 9, new CG trailer revealed |url=https://blog.playstation.com/2022/07/06/god-of-war-ragnarok-launches-november-9-new-cg-trailer-revealed/ |last=Orlady |first=Grace |access-date=July 6, 2022 |work=PlayStation.Blog |publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]] |language=en-US}}</ref> During the 2021 PlayStation Showcase event, Eric Williams, who worked on every previous installment, was confirmed as the game's director, continuing the previous era's tradition of having a different director for each game; Barlog served as a producer on ''Ragnarök''.<ref>{{Cite web|title=First look at 'God of War Ragnarök' shows a war with Asgard|url=https://www.engadget.com/god-of-war-ragnarok-first-footage-205908760.html|access-date=September 9, 2021|website=Engadget|language=en-US}}</ref> It was also during this event that it was confirmed that ''Ragnarök'' would be the finale to the Norse era of the series. The main reason Santa Monica decided to end the Norse era with ''Ragnarök'' was due to the game's size and scale. The 2018 installment and ''Ragnarök'' each respectively took five years to develop, and they did not want to take another five years, totaling 15 years, to tell one story.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ragnarok-ending-the-norse-saga-after-two-games-is-like-the-lord-of-the-rings-box-set-barlog-says/1100-6496283/|title=God Of War Ragnarok Ending The Norse Saga After Two Games Is Like The Lord Of The Rings Box Set, Barlog Says|date=September 16, 2021|last=Makuch|first=Eddie|work=GameSpot|publisher=Red Ventures|access-date=December 13, 2021}}</ref> The game supports options for players to run the game in either higher resolution or better performance, including 4K at 30 [[Physics:Frames per second|frames per second]] (fps), 1080p resolution at 60fps, a high frame resolution mode in 4K at 40fps, and a high frame performance mode that syncs to 120 [[Hertz|hertz]]. The latter two high frame options are only available for the PS5 version of the game and require monitors with HDMI 2.1.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/god-of-war-ragnarok-has-a-120-fps-performance-mode-on-ps5|title=God of War Ragnarok Has a 120hz Performance Mode on PS5|date=October 21, 2022|last=Plant|first=Logan|work=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=October 24, 2022}}</ref> Due to the game also being on PS4, it does not fully utilize the capabilities of the PS5. The PS4 version is a visual improvement over the 2018 installment while the PS5 version "is essentially an enhancement of what's already possible [on the PS4]". The game does, however, include several features exclusive to the PS5 hardware, such as 3D audio, [[Engineering:Haptic technology|haptic feedback]], higher frame rate, and overall better graphics.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twistedvoxel.com/dev-god-of-war-ragnarok-unable-utilize-ps5/|title=Dev Confirms God Of War Ragnarok Is Unable To Fully Utilize PS5 Capabilities|date=November 1, 2022|last=Bari|first=Muhammad Ali|work=Twisted Voxel|access-date=November 2, 2022}}</ref>

On December 7, 2023 during The Game Awards 2023 event, Santa Monica Studio revealed a free [[Software:Roguelike|roguelite]] DLC expansion to ''Ragnarök'' titled ''Valhalla.'' This expansion was released five days later on December 12. The expansion acts as an epilogue to ''Ragnarök'' and sees Kratos and companion Mimir complete various trials in Valhalla in order for the former to come to terms with his past in Greece. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Cripe |first=Michael |date=2023-12-08 |title=God of War Ragnarok Valhalla Is Free Roguelike DLC That Launches Next Week {{!}} Game Awards 2023 |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/god-of-war-ragnarok-valhalla-is-free-roguelike-dlc-that-launches-next-week-game-awards-2023 |access-date=2024-01-29 |website=IGN |language=en}}</ref>

====Future====
Prior to the release of the 2018 installment, Cory Barlog confirmed that after the Norse era, future games could see the series tackling either Egyptian, [[Religion:Hindu mythology|Hindu]], or [[Religion:Maya mythology|Maya mythology]].<ref name="GIp45">{{harvnb|ref=GIcoverstory|Juba|2018|p=45}}</ref> He also said that although the 2018 installment (and subsequently ''Ragnarök'') focused on Norse, it alluded to the fact that there are other mythologies co-existing in the world.<ref>{{cite AV media|people=Barlog, Cory; Studstill, Shannon|date=January 9, 2018|title=Norse and Beyond: Expanding God of War's History|medium=[[Company:YouTube|YouTube]]|language=en|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzW2sBmR5CQ&t=15s|access-date=February 1, 2018|publisher=Game Informer, [[Company:GameStop|GameStop]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190518133555/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzW2sBmR5CQ&t=15s|archive-date=May 18, 2019|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Barlog also said that he liked the idea of having different directors for each game and although he may not direct another ''God of War'', he would still be at Santa Monica to work on future games.<ref name="GIquestions">{{cite AV media |people=Barlog, Cory; Hanson, Ben|date=February 2, 2018|title=Answering God Of War's Lingering Questions|medium=[[Company:YouTube|YouTube]]|language=en|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViaCWvqwUwU|access-date=February 4, 2018|publisher=Game Informer, [[Company:GameStop|GameStop]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413190025/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViaCWvqwUwU|archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref>

===Side games===
====PlayStation Portable====
Game developer [[Company:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]] pitched the idea of a ''God of War'' game for the PlayStation Portable to Santa Monica Studio soon after the original ''God of War'' launched.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?pager.offset=4&cId=3159438 |date=May 11, 2007 |last=Leone |first=Matt |title=Previews: God of War PSP |page=5 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=1UP |access-date=October 2, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017050731/http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?pager.offset=4&cId=3159438 |archive-date=October 17, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Cory Barlog officially confirmed the development of ''Chains of Olympus'' at a ''God of War II'' launch event, stating "It is its own story that connects to the overall story."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=7951988&publicUserId=5380373 |title=God of War II launch event/PSP coming out party? Liveblog! |first=Matt |last=Leone |date=March 12, 2007 |access-date=March 6, 2008 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=1UP |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017051109/http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=7951988&publicUserId=5380373 |archive-date=October 17, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''Chains of Olympus'' uses a proprietary, in-house engine referred to as the Ready at Dawn engine, which expanded on the engine created for their previous game, ''[[Software:Daxter (video game)|Daxter]]'' (2006).<ref name="nextgen_interview"/> Originally designed for the PlayStation Portable's restricted 222-[[Megahertz|megahertz]] (MHz) processor,<ref name="1up_preview">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3164808 |title=1UP Previews: God of War PSP |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=1UP |access-date=March 27, 2008 |date=December 10, 2007 |first=Matt |last=Leone |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107022254/http://www.1up.com/previews/god-war-psp_3 |archive-date=November 7, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Ready at Dawn convinced Sony to increase the clock speed of the PSP to 333-MHz, which they did in [[Software:PlayStation Portable system software#Version 3|a firmware upgrade]]. The faster processor allowed for more realistic blood effects, lighting effects, and shadows as well as improved enemy intelligence, but noticeably decreased battery life.<ref name="1up_preview"/><ref>{{cite video|url=http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/16611 |title=God of War: Chains of Olympus 'Comparison' |access-date=March 8, 2008 |date=December 11, 2007 |author=doublespy |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=1UP |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722074742/http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/16611 |archive-date=July 22, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> After the game's completion, game director Ru Weerasuriya stated multiplayer options and other puzzles, characters, and dialogue had to be removed due to time constraints.<ref name="nextgen_interview">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.edge-online.com/features/interview-taking-god-war-psp |title=Interview: Taking God of War to PSP |access-date=March 8, 2008 |date=March 4, 2008 |publisher=Future plc |magazine=EDGE |author=Edge Staff |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609134013/http://www.edge-online.com/features/interview-taking-god-war-psp |archive-date=June 9, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

''Ghost of Sparta'' was announced on May 4, 2010, on PlayStation.Blog.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/05/04/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-announced-for-psp/ |title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta Announced for PSP! |date=May 4, 2010 |last=Levine |first=Eric |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=February 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217062420/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/05/04/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-announced-for-psp/ |archive-date=February 17, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> According to Sony, Ready at Dawn utilized "state-of-the-art visual technologies" that allowed "higher quality environments and characters."<ref name="mercury"/> ''Ghost of Sparta'' offers "over 25% more gameplay" than ''Chains of Olympus'', while adding more enemies on screen and more boss encounters.<ref name="mercury"/> Development of ''Ghost of Sparta'' took 23 months to complete.<ref name="mercury">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.mercurynews.com/aei/2010/11/04/digger-deeper-into-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-with-game-director-dana-jan/ |title=Digger deeper into God of War: Ghost of Sparta with game director Dana Jan |date=November 4, 2010 |last=Cacho |first=Gieson |publisher=MediaNews Group |work=San Jose Mercury News |access-date=August 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101227123148/http://blogs.mercurynews.com/aei/2010/11/04/digger-deeper-into-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-with-game-director-dana-jan/ |archive-date=December 27, 2010 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Due to Weerasuriya's schedule at Ready at Dawn, he could not return to direct; Dana Jan, the lead level designer for ''Chains of Olympus'', became director for ''Ghost of Sparta''. At Comic-Con 2010, Jan noted that when development began in 2008, the goal was to make the game bigger than ''Chains of Olympus'', which had apparently pushed the PSP to its functional limits. Jan stated that ''Ghost of Sparta'' took the PSP to its "absolute capacity", with another feature being more on-screen foes.<ref name="Comic-Con 2010">{{cite web|url=http://comic-con.gamespot.com/story/6270882/ghost-of-sparta-spooks-san-diego/?tag=latestheadlines;title;6 |title=Ghost of Sparta spooks Sand Diego |date=July 24, 2010 |last=Magrino |first=Tom |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=GameSpot |access-date=July 25, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130131220701/http://www.gamespot.com/news/ghost-of-sparta-spooks-san-diego-6270882 |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The game concept was originally used as a teaser for players who obtained the platinum trophy from ''God of War III''. The trophy revealed a site called spartansstandtall.com, which became the official site for ''Ghost of Sparta'' on May 4.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/5497342/god-of-war-iii-mystery-website-promises-nothing |title=God of War III Mystery Website Promises Nothing |first=Stephen |last=Totilo |date=March 19, 2010 |publisher=Gawker Media |work=Kotaku |access-date=May 4, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013214044/http://kotaku.com/5497342/god-of-war-iii-mystery-website-promises-nothing |archive-date=October 13, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Jan stated the reason they chose to have the game take place between ''God of War'' and ''God of War II'' was because "It seemed to make a lot of sense to fill in that void."<ref name="mercury"/>

====Mobile====
''Betrayal'' was announced by Sony Online Entertainment at a press conference in {{wipe|Los Angeles}} in May 2007. The game utilizes a total of 110 different animations and features a 2D rendition of the series' [[3D computer graphics|three-dimensional]] (3D) graphics.<ref name="Preview">{{cite web|url=http://wireless.ign.com/articles/787/787055p1.html |title=God of War Mobile |first=Dan |last=Adams |date=May 10, 2007 |work=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |access-date=January 16, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121029090726/http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/05/10/god-of-war-mobile |archive-date=October 29, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/hands-on-god-of-war-betrayal-31426.phtml |title=Hands-on: God of War: Betrayal |date=May 9, 2007 |last=Summa |first=Robert |publisher=[[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] |access-date=May 30, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130426025332/http://www.destructoid.com/hands-on-god-of-war-betrayal-31426.phtml |archive-date=April 26, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Game director Phil Cohen said that although the game was enjoyable to develop, the greatest challenge was creating a single tileset and palette swapping scheme that was diverse enough to portray multiple environments with only several hundred kilobytes, and that met Santa Monica Studio's high standards.<ref name="CohenInterview">{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/phil-cohen-talks-up-god-of-war-betrayal/ |title=Phil Cohen talks up God of War: Betrayal |date=August 29, 2007 |last=Yoon |first=Andrew |work=Joystiq |publisher=AOL |access-date=May 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128052452/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/phil-cohen-talks-up-god-of-war-betrayal/ |archive-date=January 28, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Cohen wrote the initial design document between September and October 2005, and revisited it in August 2006, the month development started. The versions for high-end handsets were completed in April 2007, with final versions for low-end handsets completed by June 2007. The porting team adapted the game to over 200 handsets in a matter of weeks. Both David Jaffe and Cory Barlog ensured that the ''Betrayal'' development team captured the feel of the combat and visual style, and were "helpful with feedback and positive support".<ref name="CohenInterview"/>

==Adaptations==
{{Anchor|Film}}
===Live action===
====Unproduced feature film====
A film adaptation of the first game was announced in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://filmforce.ign.com/articles/637/637274p1.html |title=Games to Film: God of War |last=Davidson |first=Paul |date=July 27, 2005 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140310125026/http://www.ign.com/articles/2005/07/28/games-to-film-god-of-war |archive-date=March 10, 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Creator David Jaffe confirmed that a completed script had been written by David Self and would be sent to an unspecified director. He said that Universal Studios was behind the making of the ''God of War'' movie, but was unaware of its status,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/288499/game-head-david-jaffe-meets-uwe-boll |title=Game Head: David Jaffe Meets Uwe Boll |date=August 11, 2007 |publisher=Gawker Media |work=Kotaku |author=fdemarco |access-date=August 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100327204020/http://kotaku.com/288499/game-head-david-jaffe-meets-uwe-boll |archive-date=March 27, 2010 |url-status=dead }} archive link is also dead. try [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4_koCIz_Ls here] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190224182630/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4_koCIz_Ls&gl=US&hl=en |date=February 24, 2019 }}</ref> and eventually said, "it's doubtful that the film will even be made."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ugo.com/games/god-of-war-movie-update-designers-have-no-creative-control/ |title=God of War Movie Update: Designers Have 'No Creative Control' |date=March 4, 2010 |last=John |first=Tracey |publisher=IGN Entertainment |work=UGO Entertainment |access-date=April 28, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130320023755/http://www.ugo.com/games/god-of-war-movie-update-designers-have-no-creative-control |archive-date=March 20, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In September 2010, Jaffe said that the "script went out a year and a half ago to Daniel Craig who plays [James] Bond, but he turned it down."<ref name="GDLive2010"/> He also said that another actor had since been cast as Kratos; he said, "this new person is pretty good, if that ends up true."<ref name="GDLive2010">{{cite video|title=God of War&nbsp;– Game Directors Live|publisher=[[Software:Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|year=2010|medium=documentary|time=80 minutes|location=North Hollywood, Los Angeles}}</ref> In July 2012, ''The Hollywood Reporter'' said that writers Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan had been hired to adapt the ''God of War'' film.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/pacific-rim-writers-god-war-game-adaptation-347251 |title='Pacific Rim' Writers Tapped for 'God of War' Adaptation (Exclusive) |date=July 10, 2012 |last=Kit |first=Borys |publisher=Prometheus Global Media |work=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=July 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025154836/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/pacific-rim-writers-god-war-game-adaptation-347251 |archive-date=October 25, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The writers told IGN that they intended to "humanize" Kratos and explore his past. Melton said that they were emotionally invested and it could become a series of films, and that Ares "[would] become a more proactive villain."<ref name="IGNintMelton-Dunstan"/><ref name="Bold step">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/god-of-war-movie-a-step-in-bold-new-direction-report-6400813 |title=God of War movie a step in 'bold' new direction – Report |date=November 12, 2012 |last=Parker |first=Laura |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=GameSpot |access-date=July 11, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130627205112/http://www.gamespot.com/news/god-of-war-movie-a-step-in-bold-new-direction-report-6400813 |archive-date=June 27, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> A script had been "turned in"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.craveonline.com/film/interviews/468223-exclusive-marcus-dunstan-on-the-collection-and-god-of-war/2 |title=Exclusive: Marcus Dunstan on The Collection and God of War – Page 2 |date=March 26, 2013 |last=Bibbiani |first=William |publisher=AtomicMedia |work=CraveOnline |access-date=March 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402115442/http://www.craveonline.com/film/interviews/468223-exclusive-marcus-dunstan-on-the-collection-and-god-of-war/2 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and the film had a budget of US$150 million.<ref name="IGNintMelton-Dunstan">{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/08/31/whats-in-store-for-the-god-of-war-movie |title=What's in Store for the God of War Movie? |date=August 30, 2012 |last=Nicholson |first=Max |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=September 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017010111/http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/08/31/whats-in-store-for-the-god-of-war-movie |archive-date=October 17, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Following the release of 2018's ''God of War'', with no updates on the original game's film, rumors about a potential adaptation of the 2018 game began circulating. ''Pacific Rim: Uprising''{{'}}s (2018) director Steven S. DeKnight stated he would like to direct an adaptation of that game and talked with Sony about making it R-rated.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://comicbook.com/gaming/2018/06/06/god-of-war-movie-kratos-steven-deknight/|title=Steven DeKnight Has Talked To Sony About An R-Rated 'God of War' Movie|date=June 6, 2018|last=Davis|first=Brandon|work=ComicBook.com|access-date=June 17, 2019|archive-date=June 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190618022759/https://comicbook.com/gaming/2018/06/06/god-of-war-movie-kratos-steven-deknight/|url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2021, however, a Sony spokesperson confirmed that there was no ''God of War'' film adaptation in development.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ankers |first1=Adele |title=Sony Denies It's Working on a God of War Movie |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/sony-denies-working-on-god-of-war-movie |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=June 7, 2021 |date=May 24, 2021 |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607105733/https://www.ign.com/articles/sony-denies-working-on-god-of-war-movie |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Amazon Prime Video series====
On March 7, 2022, ''Deadline'' reported that a [[Engineering:Live action|live action]] television series was said to be in negotiations at [[Software:Amazon Prime Video|Amazon Prime Video]] by Mark Fergus and Hawk Ostby, creators of ''The Expanse'', and Rafe Judkins, the [[Engineering:Showrunner|showrunner]] for ''The Wheel of Time''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Andreeva |first=Nellie |date=March 7, 2022 |title='God of War' TV Series Adaptation Eyed By Prime Video |url=https://deadline.com/2022/03/god-of-war-tv-series-prime-video-playstation-amazon-studios-1234959867/ |access-date=March 7, 2022 |website=Deadline Hollywood |language=en-US}}</ref> During an investor briefing on May 26, 2022, [[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]] president Jim Ryan confirmed that a ''God of War'' television series was in development for Amazon Prime Video.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/sony-horizon-series-netflix-god-of-war-amazon-gran-turismo-tv|title=Sony Announces Horizon Series for Netflix, God of War Series for Amazon, and a Gran Turismo Show|date=May 26, 2022|last=Dinsdale|first=Ryan|work=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|access-date=May 26, 2022}}</ref> The series was officially ordered on December 14, 2022. The adaptation is being produced by Sony Pictures Television and Amazon Studios in association with PlayStation Productions, and it will premiere on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. It is being written by Fergus and Ostby, with Judkins serving as showrunner, who will all also be executive producers. Other executive producers include Santa Monica Studio's Creative Director Cory Barlog, PlayStation Productions' Asad Qizilbash and Carter Swan, Santa Monica Studio's Yumi Yang, and Vertigo Entertainment's Roy Lee. Santa Monica Studio's Jeff Ketcham will serve as a co-executive producer. It was also confirmed that the Prime Video series would adapt the Norse era, beginning with the events of the 2018 installment.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2022/12/god-of-war-adaptation-playstation-video-game-series-order-prime-video-1235198842/|title='God Of War' Adaptation Of PlayStation Video Game Gets Prime Video Series Order|date=December 14, 2022|last=Andreeva|first=Nellie|website=Deadline Hollywood|access-date=December 14, 2022}}</ref> By January 2024, writing was underway on the series.<ref name="WritingBegins">{{Cite web |last=Barnhardt |first=Adam |date=January 8, 2024 |title=Sony Shows Gravity Rush Movie, Updates on God of War and Horizon Shows |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/sony-shows-gravity-rush-movie-updates-on-god-of-war-and-horizon-shows |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109045325/https://www.ign.com/articles/sony-shows-gravity-rush-movie-updates-on-god-of-war-and-horizon-shows |archive-date=January 9, 2024 |access-date=January 8, 2024 |website=IGN}}</ref>

===Documentaries===

''God of War: Unearthing the Legend'' (75 minutes, 2010)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/01/15/god-of-war-unearthing-the-legend-for-the-ultimate-fan/ |title=God of War: Unearthing the Legend for the Ultimate Fan! |date=January 15, 2010 |last=Chan |first=Ken |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=November 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100327161336/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/01/15/god-of-war-unearthing-the-legend-for-the-ultimate-fan/ |archive-date=March 27, 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> is a documentary about the ''God of War'' franchise and is hosted by Peter Weller. The production discusses the relationship between the ''God of War'' games and Greek mythology, and features members of the ''God of War III'' development team and professional historians. It was included as part of the ''God of War III Ultimate Edition'' (North America) and ''Ultimate Trilogy Edition'' (Europe, Australia, and New Zealand) packages. On March 25, 2010, it was released on the PlayStation Store in North America to purchase.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/03/25/playstation-store-update-129/ |title=PlayStation Store Update |date=March 25, 2010 |last=Chen |first=Grace |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120929005401/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/03/25/playstation-store-update-129/ |archive-date=September 29, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

''God of War&nbsp;– Game Directors Live'' (80 minutes, 2010)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/01/reason-6-to-pre-order-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-god-of-war-game-directors-live/ |title=Reason #6 to Pre-Order God of War: Ghost of Sparta&nbsp;–&nbsp;God of War Game Directors Live |date=November 1, 2010 |last=Chan |first=Ken |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=November 4, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003103431/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/01/reason-6-to-pre-order-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-god-of-war-game-directors-live/ |archive-date=October 3, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> is a documentary featuring five game directors of the ''God of War'' series: David Jaffe (original ''God of War''), Cory Barlog (just ''God of War II'' at the time), Ru Weerasuriya (''Chains of Olympus''), Stig Asmussen (''God of War III''), and Dana Jan (''Ghost of Sparta''). The documentary takes the form of an interview panel hosted by G4's Alison Haislip, with the five game directors, 150 members of PlayStation.Blog, and members of ''GodofWar.com'' and ''SpartansStandTall.com''. It was filmed at the El Portal theater in Los Angeles on September 1, 2010, and was released as a pre-order bonus for ''Ghost of Sparta'' in North America on November 2, 2010, and was included with the ''Origins Collection'' and later released on the PlayStation Store.<ref name="OriginsDL">{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/09/13/playstation-store-update-204/ |title=PlayStation Store Update |last=Chen |first=Grace |date=September 13, 2011 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=July 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012231943/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/09/13/playstation-store-update-204/ |archive-date=October 12, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

''Raising Kratos'' is a [[Company:YouTube|YouTube]] documentary of Santa Monica Studio's five-year process in making 2018's ''God of War'', showing the "herculean effort" that went into reviving the franchise. The documentary was announced on April 20, 2019, the one year anniversary of the game's launch, and was released the following month on May 10.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://blog.us.playstation.com/2019/04/20/announcing-raising-kratos-a-god-of-war-documentary/|title=Announcing Raising Kratos, a God of War Documentary|last=Rhode|first=Scott|date=April 20, 2019|website=PlayStation.Blog|language=en-US|access-date=May 10, 2019|archive-date=May 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190518133530/https://blog.us.playstation.com/2019/04/20/announcing-raising-kratos-a-god-of-war-documentary/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-05-10-god-of-wars-exclusive-behind-the-scenes-documentary-is-here|title=God of War's feature length behind-the-scenes documentary is here|last=Kent|first=Emma|date=May 10, 2019|website=Eurogamer|language=en|access-date=May 10, 2019|archive-date=May 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190510133616/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-05-10-god-of-wars-exclusive-behind-the-scenes-documentary-is-here|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Comic series and novels===

A six-issue comic book series titled ''God of War'', written by Marv Wolfman with art by Andrea Sorrentino, was published by WildStorm and DC Comics on a bi-monthly schedule from March 2010 to January 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dccomics.com/wildstorm/comics/?cm=13275 |title=God of War #1 Solicitation |publisher=DC Comics |access-date=January 4, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414014502/http://www.dccomics.com/comics/god-of-war-2010/god-of-war-1 |archive-date=April 14, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Taking place during the Greek era, the narrative switches between Kratos' past and present; it occurs while he is a soldier of Sparta and involves his search for the Ambrosia of [[Religion:Asclepius|Asclepius]], which has legendary healing properties and eventually saved his plague-ridden daughter, Calliope. Kratos also embarks upon a quest to destroy the same elixir to deny it to the worshippers of the slain god Ares, who wish to resurrect him.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/comics/god-of-war|title=God of War Comics|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|work=IGN|access-date=September 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160504222628/http://www.ign.com/comics/god-of-war|archive-date=May 4, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The series was collected into a trade paperback in March 2011.<ref>{{cite book|title=God of War|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IbehSgAACAAJ|isbn=978-1-4012-2972-6|date=March 22, 2011|publisher=DC Comics|first=Marv|last=Wolfman|pages=144|access-date=October 17, 2012}}</ref>

In the lead up to ''Ascension''{{'}}s release, Santa Monica released a graphic novel titled ''[[Software:God of War: Ascension#Rise of the Warrior|God of War: Rise of the Warrior]]'' on the ''God of War'' website that featured a [[Social:Social-network game|social experience]] from October 2012 until March 2013. The graphic novel was a prequel story that tied into the single-player of ''Ascension'', and was the backstory of the player's multiplayer character.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/10/22/god-of-war-ascension-new-trailer-rise-of-the-warrior-early-beta-access/ |title=God of War: Ascension: New Trailer, Rise of the Warrior, Early Beta Access |date=October 22, 2012 |last=Papy |first=Todd |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121125034137/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/10/22/god-of-war-ascension-new-trailer-rise-of-the-warrior-early-beta-access/ |archive-date=November 25, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

A two-volume comic series was published by Dark Horse Comics and follows Kratos' journey between the events of ''God of War III'' and the 2018 installment. It was written by Chris Roberson with art by Tony Parker. The first volume, also titled ''God of War'', was published monthly from November 2018 to February 2019; Issue #0 was included digitally with the three different special editions of the 2018 game and the four-issue volume serves as a direct prequel story to the game.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blog.us.playstation.com/2018/01/23/god-of-war-out-april-20-on-ps4/|title=God of War Out April 20 on PS4|date=January 23, 2018|author=Barlog, Cory|work=PlayStation.Blog|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]|access-date=January 23, 2018|archive-date=April 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413203647/https://blog.us.playstation.com/2018/01/23/god-of-war-out-april-20-on-ps4/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/dark-horse-god-of-war-prequel-comic/|title=Dark Horse Comics Announces God of War Prequel Series|date=August 14, 2018|last=Zachary|first=Brandon|work=Comic Book Resources|access-date=November 9, 2018|archive-date=November 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181110040439/https://www.cbr.com/dark-horse-god-of-war-prequel-comic/|url-status=live}}</ref> The second volume, also four issues and subtitled ''Fallen God'', was published monthly from March to June 2021; it was originally to begin publication in June 2020, but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking place before the first volume, ''Fallen God'' covers the timespan from ''God of War III'' to that first volume.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/dark-horse-god-of-war-fallen-god/|title=Dark Horse Announces New God of War Comic Series|date=March 22, 2020|last=Patterson|first=Adreon|work=Comic Book Resources|publisher=Valnet Inc.|access-date=December 15, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/god-of-war-fallen-god-comic-2021-release-date/|title=God Of War: Fallen God Comic Gets New 2021 Release Date|date=January 4, 2021|last=Dastoor|first=Vaspaan|work=TheGamer|access-date=December 15, 2022}}</ref> Both series were collected as trade paperbacks in May 2019 (Volume 1) and December 2021 (Volume 2), respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mycomicshop.com/search?TID=48303259|title=God of War TPB (2019-2021 Dark Horse) By Chris Roberson comic books|work=mycomicshop.com|publisher=Lone Star Comics|access-date=December 26, 2022}}</ref>

The ''God of War'' novels recount the events of the games and offer deeper insights into their stories. ''[[Software:God of War (2005 video game)#Novel|God of War]]'', the official novelization of the first game, was written by Matthew Stover and [[Biography:Robert E. Vardeman|Robert E. Vardeman]]. It was published on May 25, 2010, by Del Rey Books.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://playstation.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/del-ray-announces-first-god-of-war-novel-for-march-2010/ |title=Del Ray announces first God of War novel for March 2010 |last=Alexander |first=Jem |publisher=AOL |work=Joystiq |access-date=January 4, 2010 |date=June 13, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120829022404/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/del-ray-announces-first-god-of-war-novel-for-march-2010/ |archive-date=August 29, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''[[Software:God of War II#Novel|God of War II]]'', the second novelization of the series, was written by Vardeman alone and was published by Del Rey Books on February 12, 2013.<ref name="novel">{{cite web|url=http://www.randomhouse.com/book/7889/god-of-war-ii-by-robert-e-vardeman |title=God of War II by Robert E. Vardeman |publisher={{wipe|Random House}} |access-date=February 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130518134945/http://www.randomhouse.com/book/7889/god-of-war-ii-by-robert-e-vardeman |archive-date=May 18, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The third novelization in the series, titled ''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)#God of War – The Official Novelization|God of War – The Official Novelization]]'', is of 2018's ''God of War'', skipping a novelization of ''God of War III''. It was released on August 28, 2018, by Titan Books and was written by Cory Barlog's father, James Barlog.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2018/05/29/god-of-war-novelization-written-by-cory-barlogs-father-available-to-pre-order/|title=God of War Novelization Written by Cory Barlog's Father, Available to Pre-Order|date=May 29, 2018|last=Wood|first=Chandler|work=PlayStation LifeStyle|publisher=CraveOnline|access-date=August 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803210254/http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2018/05/29/god-of-war-novelization-written-by-cory-barlogs-father-available-to-pre-order/|archive-date=August 3, 2018|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

===Tabletop card game===
An official tabletop card game titled ''God of War: The Card Game'' was released by [[Company:CMON Limited|CMON Limited]] on October 25, 2019. Created by Alexandru Olteanu and Fel Barros, the card game adapts the events of the 2018 installment. Players take on the role of the Norns, the [[Philosophy:Fates|Fates]] of Norse mythology, as they try to prevent Ragnarök with a different combination of characters and events from the game, providing many variations to completing the card game.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://cmon.com/news/cmon-announces-god-of-war-the-card-game|title=CMON Announces God of War: The Card Game|date=April 16, 2019|work=[[Company:CMON Limited|CMON Limited]]|access-date=January 8, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://cmon.com/news/god-of-war-the-card-game-developer-q-a|title=God of War: The Card Game Developer Q&A|date=May 9, 2019|work=[[Company:CMON Limited|CMON Limited]]|access-date=January 8, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tabletopgamingnews.com/God-of-War--The-Card-Game-Now-Available|title=God of War: The Card Game Now Available|date=October 28, 2019|author=Polar_Bear|work=Tabletop Gaming News|publisher=BV Software|access-date=January 8, 2023}}</ref>

==Music==
Seven ''God of War'' soundtracks have been commercially released and have featured several composers, including Gerard K. Marino, Ron Fish, Winifred Phillips, Mike Reagan, Cris Velasco, Winnie Waldron, Marcello De Francisci, Jeff Rona, Tyler Bates, and Bear McCreary. On March 1, 2005, ''[[Software:God of War (2005 video game)#Soundtrack|God of War: Original Soundtrack from the Video Game]]'' was released on CD by SIE as an exclusive product for the Sony Connect Music Store. It was praised for its well-developed orchestral themes, and the creative use of ancient and ethnic instrumentation. The composers were also praised for avoiding the production of never-ending action themes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwar.shtml |title=God of War Soundtrack :: Review by Dave |last=Valentine |first=Dave |publisher=Square Enix Music Online |access-date=July 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521020426/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwar.shtml |archive-date=May 21, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War II: Original Soundtrack from the Video Game'' was released on CD by SIE on April 10, 2007. Praised as strong, the album features ominous orchestral pieces, and each composer's contributions are slightly more distinctive than the previous soundtrack.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwar2.shtml |title=God of War II Official Soundtrack :: Review by Dave |author=Dave |publisher=SquareEnixMusic.com |access-date=July 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130518000656/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwar2.shtml |archive-date=May 18, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''[[Software:God of War III#Soundtrack|God of War III: Original Soundtrack from the Video Game]]'' was released on CD by SIE and Sumthing Else on March 30, 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.game-ost.com/albums/3291/god_of_war_iii_original_soundtrack_from_the_video_game/ |title=God of War III: Original Soundtrack From The Video Game |publisher=Game-OST |access-date=May 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311054022/http://game-ost.com/albums/3291/god_of_war_iii_original_soundtrack_from_the_video_game |archive-date=March 11, 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> It was also included as downloadable content in the ''God of War III Ultimate Edition'' and ''Ultimate Trilogy Edition'' collections.<ref name="GoW3 UE items">{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/10/30/god-of-war-iii-ultimate-edition-and-pre-order-items-announced/ |title=God of War III Ultimate Edition and Pre-Order Items Announced |date=October 30, 2009 |last=Caiazzo |first=Anthony |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=November 3, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019045150/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/10/30/god-of-war-iii-ultimate-edition-and-pre-order-items-announced/ |archive-date=October 19, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The soundtrack was praised as an orchestral success and the best score in the series at the time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwar3.shtml |title=God of War III Original Soundtrack :: Review by Dave |author=Dave |publisher=SquareEnixMusic.com |access-date=July 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515193142/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwar3.shtml |archive-date=May 15, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The original scores for ''God of War'', ''God of War II'', and ''God of War III'' were nominated for Best Original Score at the 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/re4-named-game-of-year-at-spike-awards-6140144 |title=RE4 named Game of Year at Spike Awards |date=November 19, 2005 |last=Sinclair |first=Brendan |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=GameSpot |access-date=July 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022112119/http://www.gamespot.com/news/re4-named-game-of-year-at-spike-awards-6140144 |archive-date=October 22, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> 2007,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/nominees-for-spike-tvs-video-game-awards-2007-revealed/ |title=Nominees for Spike TV's 'Video Game Awards 2007' revealed |date=November 9, 2007 |last=Dormer |first=Dan |publisher=AOL |work=Joystiq |access-date=July 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028012450/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/nominees-for-spike-tvs-video-game-awards-2007-revealed/ |archive-date=October 28, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and 2010<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/2010-spike-vga-nominations-are-in-appropriately-preposterous/ |title=2010 Spike VGA nominations are in, appropriately preposterous |date=November 17, 2010 |last=McElroy |first=Griffin |publisher=AOL |work=Joystiq |access-date=July 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028012430/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/2010-spike-vga-nominations-are-in-appropriately-preposterous/ |archive-date=October 28, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Spike Video Game Awards, respectively. The ''God of War Trilogy Soundtrack'' was included with the ''God of War III Ultimate Edition'' and ''Ultimate Trilogy Edition'' collections as downloadable content. The ''Trilogy Soundtrack'' consists of the original scores for ''God of War'', ''God of War II'', and ''God of War III''. It was praised by critics as the best way to experience the series' musical development, and allows the listener to note the development of the composers during the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwartrilogy.shtml |title=God of War Trilogy Soundtrack :: Review by Dave |author=Dave |publisher=SquareEnixMusic.com |access-date=July 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120409104725/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwartrilogy.shtml |archive-date=April 9, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

On October 18, 2010, ''[[Software:God of War: Ghost of Sparta#Soundtrack|God of War: Ghost of Sparta – Original Soundtrack from the Video Game]]'' was released on the [[ITunes Store|iTunes Store]] by SIE. It was also included as downloadable content as part of the ''Ghost of Sparta'' pre-order package and includes three previously unreleased tracks from ''Chains of Olympus''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/god-war-ghost-sparta-original/id399103247|title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta (Original Soundtrack from the Video Game)|publisher=[[Company:Apple Inc.|Apple Inc.]]|work=[[ITunes Store|iTunes Store]]|access-date=July 15, 2012|archive-date=March 12, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312141236/https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/god-war-ghost-sparta-original/id399103247|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="GoS soundtrack">{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/09/23/reason-2-to-pre-order-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-official-soundtrack-revealed/ |title=Reason #2 to Pre-Order God of War: Ghost of Sparta — Official Soundtrack Revealed |date=September 23, 2010 |last=Chan |first=Ken |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=October 25, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003102114/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/09/23/reason-2-to-pre-order-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-official-soundtrack-revealed/ |archive-date=October 3, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Several tracks were cited as being intended for purely contextual purposes, and the remaining tracks rated well in comparison to the soundtracks of the main installments in the series.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwarpsp.shtml |title=God of War Ghost of Sparta Original Soundtrack :: Review by Dave |author=Dave |publisher=SquareEnixMusic.com |access-date=July 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130516010334/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwarpsp.shtml |archive-date=May 16, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''[[Software:God of War: Ascension#Soundtrack|God of War: Ascension (Original Soundtrack)]]'' differed from the previously released soundtracks as it was composed by Tyler Bates alone, and is the only ''God of War'' score that he has worked on. It was released on March 5, 2013, on iTunes by SIE and La-La Land Records.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/god-war-ascension-original/id606539183|title=God of War: Ascension (Original Soundtrack)|publisher=[[Company:Apple Inc.|Apple Inc.]]|work=[[ITunes Store|iTunes Store]]|access-date=March 6, 2013|archive-date=June 28, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130628211041/https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/god-war-ascension-original/id606539183|url-status=live}}</ref> It was included as downloadable content in the ''God of War: Ascension–Collector's Edition'' and ''Special Edition''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/god-of-war-iv-listed-as-upcoming-project-in-composers-resume/ |title=Composer confirms work on 'God of War IV' [update] |date=June 5, 2012 |last=Gilbert |first=Ben |publisher=AOL |work=Joystiq |access-date=June 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121028012440/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/god-of-war-iv-listed-as-upcoming-project-in-composers-resume/ |archive-date=October 28, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Reviewers praised it for being powerful, rich, and pulsing, though felt it was repetitive at times.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vgmonline.net/godofwarascension/ |title=God of War -Ascension- Original Soundtrack |date=September 2, 2014 |last=McMillan |first=Emily |publisher=Game Music Online |access-date=February 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150329201742/http://www.vgmonline.net/godofwarascension/ |archive-date=March 29, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

For both ''God of War'' (2018) and ''God of War Ragnarök'', famed TV series composer Bear McCreary was employed to compose the music.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/06/14/e3-2016-new-god-of-war-announced/|title=E3 2016: New God of War Announced|date=June 14, 2016|last=Davis|first=Justin|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|work=IGN|access-date=June 14, 2016|archive-date=April 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413204155/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/06/14/e3-2016-new-god-of-war-announced/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Software:God of War (2018 video game)#Soundtrack|God of War (PlayStation Soundtrack)]]'' was released on April 20, 2018, by Sony Classical Records. McCreary composed completely new music for the game, not reusing any music from the Greek era. However, he was inspired by their sounds, such as "deep choirs, pounding drums, and shrieking brass", and reinvented them for the Nordic setting using Nordic ethnic instruments.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blog.us.playstation.com/2018/04/13/how-bear-mccreary-composed-god-of-wars-soundtrack-out-today-on-spotify/|title=How Bear McCreary Composed God of War's Soundtrack, Out Today on Spotify|date=April 13, 2018|author=McCreary, Bear|work=PlayStation.Blog|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]|access-date=November 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190112043503/https://blog.us.playstation.com/2018/04/13/how-bear-mccreary-composed-god-of-wars-soundtrack-out-today-on-spotify/|archive-date=January 12, 2019|url-status=live|author-link=Bear McCreary}}</ref> The soundtrack was well received, receiving various nominations at award shows as well as winning the award for Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition at the 22nd Annual D.I.C.E. Awards.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-spider-man-lead-dice-awards-heres-all-t/1100-6464345/ | title = God Of War, Spider-Man Lead DICE Awards; Here's All The Nominees | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = January 10, 2019 | work = GameSpot | publisher = CBS Interactive | access-date = January 11, 2019 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20190112075455/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-spider-man-lead-dice-awards-heres-all-t/1100-6464345/ | archive-date = January 12, 2019 | url-status = live}}</ref> ''[[Software:God of War Ragnarök#Soundtrack|God of War Ragnarök (Original Soundtrack)]]'' was released on November 9, 2022, by Sony Classical Records. Faroese singer Eivør was brought back to contribute to the soundtrack.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.soundtrack.net/album/god-of-war-ragnarok/|title=God of War Ragnarök Soundtrack (2022)|date=November 9, 2022|work=Soundtrack.Net|publisher=Autotelics, LLC|access-date=November 9, 2022}}</ref> Irish folk artist Hozier was also featured on the song, "Blood Upon the Snow".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://consequence.net/2022/11/hozier-blood-upon-the-snow-god-of-war-interview/|title=Hozier on His New Song for God of War: Ragnarök, "Blood Upon the Snow": Exclusive|date=November 8, 2022|last=Ragusa|first=Paolo|work=Consequence|publisher=Consequence Media|access-date=November 9, 2022}}</ref>

===''God of War: Blood & Metal''===
{{Infobox album
| name         = God of War: Blood & Metal
| type         = EP
| artist       = various artists
| cover        = 
| border       = no
| alt          = 
| released     = {{Start date|2010|03|02}}
| recorded     = 
| venue        = 
| studio       = 
| genre        = Heavy metal
| length       = 29:24 (6-track version)<br />36:56 (7-track version)
| label        = Roadrunner Records
| producer     = 
| prev_title   = 
| prev_year    = 
| next_title   = 
| next_year    = 
}}

''God of War: Blood & Metal'' is a heavy metal homage by various bands on the Roadrunner Records label, and features original music inspired by the ''God of War'' video game series. The EP was released for purchase on March 2, 2010, and is available from [[ShockHound]]<ref name="Blood&Metal">{{cite web|last=Brown |first=Chris |url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/03/02/god-of-war-iii-blood-and-metal-ep-out-now/ |title=God of War III Blood & Metal EP Out Now |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |date=March 2, 2010 |access-date=February 2, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019045200/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/03/02/god-of-war-iii-blood-and-metal-ep-out-now/ |archive-date=October 19, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> and the iTunes Store.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/god-of-war-blood-metal-ep/id355183852|title=God of War: Blood & Metal|publisher=[[Company:Apple Inc.|Apple Inc.]]|work=[[ITunes Store|iTunes Store]]|date=March 2010|access-date=May 13, 2013|archive-date=October 8, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008222651/https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/god-of-war-blood-metal-ep/id355183852|url-status=live}}</ref> It was also included as downloadable content in the ''God of War III Ultimate Edition'' and ''Ultimate Trilogy Edition'' collections, which included a bonus track.<ref name="GoW3 UE items"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Roadrunner-Announces-God-of-War-EP-20823.aspx |title=Roadrunner Announces God of War EP |last=Records |first=Roadrunner |date=December 21, 2009 |publisher=Roadrunner Records |access-date=January 25, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023074136/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/roadrunner-announces-god-of-war-ep |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The second track, "Shattering the Skies Above" by Trivium,<ref name="Blood&Metal"/> and the bonus track, "Even Gods Cry" by The Turtlenecks,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/04/06/god-of-war-iii-exclusive-even-gods-cry-music-video-and-interview/ |title=God of War III Exclusive: "Even Gods Cry" Music Video and Interview! |date=April 6, 2010 |last=Weissbaum |first=William |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=February 2, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402151233/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/04/06/god-of-war-iii-exclusive-even-gods-cry-music-video-and-interview/ |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> were made into music videos. 1UP.com (2.5/5) said, "it's not offensive to [the] ears" and "mainstream listeners may enjoy [the album]".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=9021456 |title=Blood and Metal: The God of War III EP Review |date=February 28, 2010 |publisher=Ziff Davis |work=1UP |author=Riff |access-date=July 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505221554/http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=9021456 |archive-date=May 5, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Square Enix Music Online (8/10) stated the album is a "good selection of metal music" and listeners will be "surprised with the variety of music".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwarblood.shtml |title=God of War Blood & Metal :: Review by Dave |author=Dave |publisher=SquareEnixMusic.com |access-date=July 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120409033412/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/reviews/dave/godofwarblood.shtml |archive-date=April 9, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref>

'''Track listing'''
{{Track listing
| all_writing  =
| total_length = 29:24
| title1       = My Obsession
| note1        = Killswitch Engage
| length1      = 3:45
| title2       = Shattering the Skies Above
| note2        = Trivium
| length2      = 4:42
| title3       = Raw Dog
| note3        = Dream Theater
| length3      = 7:34
| title4       = This is Madness
| note4        = Taking Dawn
| length4      = 4:16
| title5       = The Throat of Winter
| note5        = Opeth
| length5      = 5:46
| title6       = The End
| note6        = Mutiny Within
| length6      = 3:19
}}
{{Track listing
| headline       = Bonus track
| total_length    = 36:56
| title7         = Even Gods Cry
| note7          = The Turtlenecks
| length7        = 7.32
}}

==Critical reception==
{{VG Series Reviews
|updated = November 4, 2022
|gr = no
|game1 = [[Software:God of War (2005 video game)|God of War]]
|mc1 = 94/100<ref name="MCGoW1">{{cite web | url = http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/godofwar | title = God of War (ps2: 2005) | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = Metacritic | access-date = July 4, 2012 | archive-date = February 15, 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100215031111/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/godofwar | url-status = live }}</ref>
|game2 = [[Software:God of War II|God of War II]]
|mc2 = 93/100<ref name="MCGoW2">{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/godofwar2?q=god%20of%20war%202|title=God of War II|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=December 24, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161224204029/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/god-of-war-ii|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game3 = [[Software:God of War: Betrayal|God of War]]
|mc3 = 90/100<ref name="MCGoWB">{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/game/mobile/god-of-war-betrayal|title=God of War: Betrayal|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=July 6, 2012|archive-date=April 27, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140427054739/http://www.metacritic.com/game/mobile/god-of-war-betrayal|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|game4 = [[Software:God of War: Chains of Olympus|God of War]]
|mc4 = 91/100<ref name="MCGoWCoO">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus/critic-reviews/?platform=psp|title=God of War: Chains of Olympus (psp: 2008): Reviews|access-date=July 4, 2012|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|archive-date=August 16, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816133448/http://www.metacritic.com/game/psp/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game5 = God of War Collection
|mc5 = 91/100 (PS3)<ref name="MCGoWC">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-collection/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|title=God of War Collection|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=November 20, 2012|archive-date=December 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228153607/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/god-of-war-collection|url-status=live}}</ref><br />73/100 (Vita)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-collection/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-vita|title=God of War Collection for PlayStation Vita Reviews|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=March 3, 2015|archive-date=October 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161008125129/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-vita/god-of-war-collection|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game6 = [[Software:God of War III|God of War III]]
|mc6 = 92/100<ref name="MCGoW3">{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps3/godofwar3|title=God of War III (ps3) reviews at Metacritic.com|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=February 13, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100213002051/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps3/godofwar3|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game7 = [[Software:God of War: Ghost of Sparta|God of War]]
|mc7 = 86/100<ref name="MCGoWGoS">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta/critic-reviews/?platform=psp|title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=October 25, 2010|archive-date=March 1, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301151219/http://www.metacritic.com/game/psp/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game8 = God of War: Origins Collection
|mc8 = 84/100<ref name="MCGoWOC">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-origins-collection/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|title=God of War Origins Collection|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=November 20, 2012|archive-date=August 29, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160829194202/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/god-of-war-origins-collection|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game9 = God of War Saga
|mc9 = N/A<ref name="MCGoWS">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-saga/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|title=God of War Saga|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=November 20, 2012|archive-date=November 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106112140/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/god-of-war-saga|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game10 = [[Software:God of War: Ascension|God of War]]
|mc10 = 80/100<ref name="MCGoWA">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-ascension/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3|access-date=March 19, 2013|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|title=God of War: Ascension at Metacritic|archive-date=March 17, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130317031619/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/god-of-war-ascension|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game11 = God of War III Remastered
|mc11 = 81/100<ref name="MCGoW3Re">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-iii-remastered/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4|title=God of War III Remastered for PlayStation 4 Reviews|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=July 15, 2015|archive-date=August 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150820061736/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-4/god-of-war-iii-remastered|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game12 = [[Software:God of War (2018 video game)|God of War]]
|mc12 = 94/100 (PS4)<ref name="MCGoW4">{{cite web | url = https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4 | title = God of War for Playstation 4 Reviews – Metacritic | publisher = CBS Interactive | work = Metacritic | access-date = April 12, 2018 | archive-date = April 13, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180413233335/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-4/god-of-war | url-status = live }}</ref><br />93/100 (PC)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war/critic-reviews/?platform=pc|title=God of War for PC Reviews|publisher=CBS Interactive|work=Metacritic|access-date=January 12, 2022|archive-date=January 12, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220112165012/https://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/god-of-war/critic-reviews|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game13 = [[Software:God of War Ragnarök|God of War Ragnarök]]
|mc13 = 94/100 (PS5)<ref name="MC-GoWR-PS5">{{Cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/god-of-war-ragnarok/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-5 |title=God of War: Ragnarok for PlayStation 5 Reviews |website=Metacritic |access-date=2022-11-03 |language=en}}</ref>
}}

With physical and digital copies combined, the ''God of War'' franchise has sold an estimated 66+ million games worldwide (as of November 2023).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/11/technology/sony-playstation-5-ps5.html |title=PlayStation 5: The Next Step in Sony's Rebound |last=Schiesel |first=Seth |date=November 11, 2020 |access-date=November 12, 2012 |work={{wipe|The New York Times}} |archive-date=March 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309035254/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/11/technology/sony-playstation-5-ps5.html |url-status=live }}</ref>{{refn|<ref name="Sales">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-06-05-god-of-war-series-has-sold-over-21-million-copies |title=God of War series has sold over 21 million copies |last=Yin-Poole |first=Wesley |date=June 5, 2012 |publisher=Eurogamer Network |work=Eurogamer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108044426/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-06-05-god-of-war-series-has-sold-over-21-million-copies |archive-date=November 8, 2012 |url-status=dead |access-date=January 5, 2019 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pushsquare.com/news/2012/06/god_of_war_series_surpasses_21_million_sales |title=God of War Series Surpasses 21 Million Sales |last=Barker |first=Sammy |publisher=Push Square |date=June 5, 2012 |access-date=January 5, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150326000029/http://www.pushsquare.com/news/2012/06/god_of_war_series_surpasses_21_million_sales |archive-date=March 26, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/20/npd-march-bioshock-infinite-tops-us-retail-charts/ |title=NPD March: BioShock Infinite tops US retail charts with 878K – Update |date=April 20, 2013 |last=Hillier |first=Brenna |publisher=Videogaming 247 Ltd |work=VG247 |access-date=January 5, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130502161823/http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/20/npd-march-bioshock-infinite-tops-us-retail-charts/ |archive-date=May 2, 2013 |url-status=dead |df=mdy }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/05/25/god-of-war-sales-top-5-million-in-the-first-month|title=God of War Sales Top 5 Million in the First Month|first=Shabana|last=Arif|date=May 25, 2018|access-date=January 5, 2019|archive-date=January 12, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190112043441/https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/05/25/god-of-war-sales-top-5-million-in-the-first-month|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ca.ign.com/articles/2019/05/21/god-of-war-sales-have-passed-10-million|title=God of War Sales Have Passed 10 Million – IGN|date=May 21, 2019|last=Bankhurst|first=Adam|publisher=IGN|language=en-US|access-date=May 21, 2019|archive-date=October 20, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020011044/https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/05/21/god-of-war-sales-have-passed-10-million|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="most-profitable"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://blog.playstation.com/2023/12/07/god-of-war-ragnarok-valhalla-dlc-revealed-coming-december-12/|title=God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla DLC revealed, coming December 12|date=December 7, 2023|last=Orlady|first=Grace|website=PlayStation.Blog|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Interactive Entertainment]]|access-date=December 7, 2023|quote=As of November 19, ''God of War Ragnarök'' has sold through more than 15 million units worldwide across PS4 and PS5.}}</ref>}} According to former Santa Monica employee Aaron Kaufman, the ''God of War'' franchise is Sony's most profitable brand.<ref name="most-profitable">{{cite web|url=https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2023/06/05/god-of-war-franchise-most-profitable-playstation-merch-brand/|title=God of War Is PlayStation's Most Profitable Merchandise Brand|date=June 5, 2023|last=Khan|first=Zarmena|work=PlayStation Lifestyle|publisher=Evolve Media|access-date=June 5, 2023}}</ref> ''God of War'' (2005), ''God of War II'', ''Chains of Olympus'', ''God of War Collection'', ''God of War III'', ''God of War'' (2018), and ''Ragnarök'' each received critical acclaim from several reviewers as compiled by review aggregator Metacritic,{{refn|<ref name="MCGoW1"/><ref name="MCGoW2"/><ref name="MCGoWCoO"/><ref name="MCGoWC"/><ref name="MCGoW3"/><ref name="MCGoW4"/><ref name="MC-GoWR-PS5"/>}} with the 2005, 2018, and ''Ragnarök'' titles being tied for the highest score in the franchise at 94/100.<ref name="MCGoW1"/><ref name="MCGoW4"/><ref name="MC-GoWR-PS5"/> ''Betrayal'' and ''Ghost of Sparta'' only received generally favorable reception.<ref name="Betrayalreview"/><ref name="MCGoWGoS"/> ''Ascension'' also only had a generally favorable reception and, not including the PlayStation Vita port of ''God of War Collection'', it has the lowest score in the series from Metacritic (80/100).<ref name="MCGoWA"/>

At the time of its release, Raymond Padilla of GameSpy wrote that the original ''God of War'' was the "best action game ever to grace the PS2".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/god-of-war/598019p1.html |title=God of War (PS2) |date=March 22, 2005 |access-date=March 31, 2008 |publisher=IGN Entertainment |work=GameSpy |first=Raymond M. |last=Padilla |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108043201/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/god-of-war/598019p1.html |archive-date=November 8, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Other critics similarly said that it was one of the best action games of all time; it received over a dozen "Game of the Year" awards.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/454 |title=Sony Computer Entertainment America to Unleash Kratos in Limited-Edition God of War PSP Entertainment Pack |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |date=February 26, 2008 |access-date=March 18, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121029011155/http://us.playstation.com/corporate/about/press-release/454.html |archive-date=October 29, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In 2009, it was named the "seventh-best" PlayStation 2 game of all time on IGN's "Top 25 PS2 Games of All Time" list.<ref>{{cite web|author=IGN PlayStation Team |date=August 10, 2009 |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/772/772296p4.html |title=The Top 25 PS2 Games of All Time |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629122948/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/772/772296p4.html |archive-date=June 29, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War II'' was also on IGN's list, and was named the "second-best" PlayStation 2 game of all time.<ref>{{cite web|author=IGN PlayStation Team |date=August 10, 2009 |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/772/772296p5.html |title=The Top 25 PS2 Games of All Time |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629132614/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/772/772296p5.html |archive-date=June 29, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War II'' was similarly called one of the best action games of all time and is considered the swan song of the PlayStation 2 era.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/763/763624p1.html |title=God of War II Review |access-date=March 12, 2007 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |date=February 12, 2007 |last=Roper |first=Chris |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106091601/http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/02/12/god-of-war-ii-review |archive-date=November 6, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In November 2012, Complex.com named ''God of War II'' the best PlayStation 2 game of all time—where ''God of War'' was named the 11th best—and consider it better than its successor, ''God of War III''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/video-games/2012/11/the-50-best-ps2-games-ever/god-of-war-2 |title=The 50 Best PS2 Games Ever |date=November 19, 2012 |last=Knight |first=Rich |publisher=Complex Media |work=Complex.com |access-date=November 21, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121127212142/http://www.complex.com/video-games/2012/11/the-50-best-ps2-games-ever/god-of-war-2 |archive-date=November 27, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''Betrayal'' was acclaimed for its fidelity to the series in terms of gameplay, art style, and graphics.<ref name="Betrayalreview"/>

''Chains of Olympus'' was praised for "fantastic" graphics and "tight and responsive" controls for the PSP at the time.<ref name="GamePro CoO">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/sony/psp/games/reviews/162468.shtml |title=Review: God of War: Chains of Olympus for PSP on GamePro.com |access-date=July 1, 2012 |date=February 20, 2008 |magazine=GamePro |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080225123920/http://www.gamepro.com/sony/psp/games/reviews/162468.shtml |archive-date=February 25, 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In 2008, IGN awarded ''Chains of Olympus'' the "Best PSP Action Game",<ref>{{cite web|year=2008 |url=http://ie.bestof.ign.com/2008/psp/1.html |title=IGN Best of 2008: Best Action Game (PSP) |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120728204001/http://ie.bestof.ign.com/2008/psp/1.html |archive-date=July 28, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and in September 2010, it was listed as the best PSP game by ''GamePro''.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/106330/the-10-best-psp-games/ |title=The 10 Best PSP Games |date=September 23, 2010 |last=Noble |first=McKinley |magazine=GamePro |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101001080907/http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/106330/the-10-best-psp-games/ |archive-date=October 1, 2010 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War III'' received praise for its graphics, in particular of Kratos; at the time, IGN stated that Kratos was "perhaps the single most impressive-looking character ever in videogames."<ref name="IGN GoW3"/> IGN also said that, at the time, ''God of War III'' "redefines what the word 'scale' means with regards to videogames, as it throws you into scenes with Titans that are larger than entire levels in some other games."<ref name="IGN GoW3">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/107/1075014p1.html |title=God of War III Review |last=Roper |first=Chris |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |date=March 8, 2010 |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104150053/http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/03/08/god-of-war-iii-review |archive-date=November 4, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> ''God of War III'' received awards for "Most Anticipated Game of 2010" and "Best PS3 Game" at the 2009 and 2010 Spike Video Game Awards, respectively.<ref name="Spike VGA">{{cite web|url=http://www.spike.com/articles/6aoa62/video-game-awards-every-vga-winner-from-years-past |title=Every VGA Winner From Years Past |publisher=Viacom |work=Spike.com |date=December 13, 2011 |author=Video Game Awards |access-date=August 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304195759/http://www.spike.com/articles/6aoa62/video-game-awards-every-vga-winner-from-years-past |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> The game also won the "Artistic Achievement" award at the 2011 BAFTA awards.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2011/03/17/heavy-rain-and-god-of-war-iii-celebrated-by-bafta/ |title=Heavy Rain And God Of War III Celebrated By BAFTA |last=Gallagher |first=James |date=March 17, 2011 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment Europe |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105044452/http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2011/03/17/heavy-rain-and-god-of-war-iii-celebrated-by-bafta/ |archive-date=January 5, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Ghost of Sparta'' was praised for its graphics and story, with Chris Pereira of 1UP saying that it was "a more personal story than the [previous] ''GOW'' games."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3182055 |title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review |date=October 25, 2010 |last=Pereira |first=Chris |publisher=Ziff Davis |work=1UP |access-date=October 25, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107010340/http://www.1up.com/reviews/god-war-ghost-sparta-review |archive-date=November 7, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It received several awards at E3 2010, including "Best Handheld Game", "Best PSP Game", and "PSP Game of Show",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/07/08/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-picks-up-9-awards-4-nominations-at-e3/ |title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta Picks Up 9 Awards, 4 Nominations at E3 |date=July 8, 2010 |last=Levine |first=Eric |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment America |work=PlayStation.Blog |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003015233/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/07/08/god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-picks-up-9-awards-4-nominations-at-e3/ |archive-date=October 3, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> and won "Best Handheld Game" at the 2010 Spike Video Game Awards.<ref name="Spike VGA"/> 2018's ''God of War'' received particular praise for its art direction, graphics, combat system, music, story, use of Norse mythology, characters, and cinematic feeling. Many also felt that it had successfully revitalized the series without losing the core identity of its predecessors.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-reviews-roundup-updated/1100-6458186/ |title=God of War PS4 Review Roundup &#91;Updated&#93;: Here's What Critics Are Saying |access-date=April 15, 2018 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180416012619/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ps4-reviews-roundup-updated/1100-6458186/ |archive-date=April 16, 2018 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> It won several awards, among which were "Game of the Year" and "Best Game Direction" at The Game Awards 2018 and "Best Storytelling" and "PlayStation Game of the Year" at the 2018 Golden Joystick Awards.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/game-awards-tga/2018/12/6/18130000/the-game-awards-winners-2018 | title = The Game Awards 2018: Here are all the winners | first = Christopher | last = Grant | date = December 6, 2018 | work = Polygon | access-date = December 7, 2018 | archive-date = December 7, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181207114102/https://www.polygon.com/game-awards-tga/2018/12/6/18130000/the-game-awards-winners-2018 | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesradar.com/golden-joystick-awards-2018-winners/ | title = Golden Joystick Awards 2018 winners: God of War wins big but Fortnite gets Victory Royale | first = Connor | last = Sheridan | date = November 16, 2018 | work = GamesRadar+ | access-date = November 16, 2018 | archive-date = November 16, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181116215904/https://www.gamesradar.com/golden-joystick-awards-2018-winners/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

The series has also received criticism because of problems with puzzles, weapons, and technical issues. ''Chains of Olympus'' was criticized by G4, who stated that the game "occasionally suffers from screen tearing and framerate drops", and that some of the puzzles "are so maddeningly difficult to solve".<ref>{{cite web|access-date=July 1, 2012 |url=http://www.g4tv.com/games/psp/44693/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus/review/ |title=God of War: Chains of Olympus |publisher=G4 Media |work=G4 |date=February 26, 2008 |first=Jonathan |last=Hunt |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016131302/http://www.g4tv.com/games/psp/44693/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus/ |archive-date=October 16, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The game was also criticized for its lack of variety in enemies, its continued use of puzzles that require players to move boxes,<ref name="GamePro CoO"/> and its relatively short story.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/852/852821p1.html |title=IGN: God of War: Chains of Olympus Review |access-date=February 21, 2008 |date=February 18, 2008 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |first=Chris |last=Roper |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021064300/http://www.ign.com/articles/2008/02/18/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus-review |archive-date=October 21, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War III'' also received some criticism. [[GameFront]]'s Phil Hornshaw said it had an overly cruel protagonist, and the game assumed that the players reveled in the misery and violence as much as Kratos did.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamefront.com/kratos-revels-in-cruelty-and-god-of-war-3-assumes-you-do-too/ |title=Kratos Revels in Cruelty, and ''God of War 3'' Assumes You Do Too |date=January 15, 2013 |last=Hornshaw |first=Phil |publisher=Break Media |work=[[GameFront]] |access-date=July 26, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626202014/http://www.gamefront.com/kratos-revels-in-cruelty-and-god-of-war-3-assumes-you-do-too/ |archive-date=June 26, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> IGN complained about the game's weapons, and said "that two of the three additional weapons that you'll earn are extremely similar to your blades. They have unique powers and slightly different moves, but by and large, they're more of the same."<ref name="IGN GoW3"/> ''Ghost of Sparta'' received criticism from ''Eurogamer'', which said that the "game's primary problem&nbsp;... is in its in-built focus" and that "there is a sense that ''Ghost of Sparta'' is a step back for the series if you've played [''God of War III'']."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2010-10-25-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-review |title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta |date=October 24, 2010 |last=Parkin |first=Simon |publisher=Eurogamer Network |work=Eurogamer |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024044921/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2010-10-25-god-of-war-ghost-of-sparta-review |archive-date=October 24, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Some reviewers stated that ''Ascension''{{'}}s story was not as compelling as previous installments, with IGN stating that in comparison to Zeus and Ares, "the Furies don't quite cut it".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/03/14/god-of-war-ascension-review |title=God of War: Ascension Review |date=March 14, 2013 |last=Simmons |first=Alex |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=March 19, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130316054639/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/03/14/god-of-war-ascension-review |archive-date=March 16, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The multiplayer received a mixed response. Although reviewers claimed gameplay translated well into the multiplayer, they were critical of the balance and depth of combat. ''Edge'' magazine approved of the multiplayer, stating it was an "evolutionary step" with "some fine ideas&nbsp;... that [would] form part of this genre's future template."<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.edge-online.com/review/god-of-war-ascension-review/ |title=God of War: Ascension review |date=March 7, 2013 |author=Edge Staff |publisher=Future plc |magazine=Edge |access-date=March 19, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130310062026/http://www.edge-online.com/review/god-of-war-ascension-review/ |archive-date=March 10, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> 2018's ''God of War'' received some criticism, for example, a couple of reviewers disliked that the [[Software:Fast travel|fast travel]] option unlocked very late into the game.<ref name="GIreview">{{cite magazine |last=Juba |first=Joe |date=April 12, 2018 |url=http://www.gameinformer.com/games/god_of_war/b/playstation4/archive/2018/04/12/god-of-war-ps4-review-game-informer.aspx |title=Reaching A Higher Summit – God Of War – PlayStation 4 |magazine=Game Informer |publisher=[[Company:GameStop|GameStop]] |access-date=April 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180412212235/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/god_of_war/b/playstation4/archive/2018/04/12/god-of-war-ps4-review-game-informer.aspx |archive-date=April 12, 2018 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref><ref name="GameRevreview">{{cite web |last=Faulkner |first=Jason |date=April 12, 2018 |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/381919-god-of-war-review-an-olympian-feat |title=God of War Review – An Olympian Feat |work=Game Revolution |publisher=CraveOnline |access-date=April 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413205243/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/381919-god-of-war-review-an-olympian-feat |archive-date=April 13, 2018}}</ref>

The collections have also received praise. IGN (9.4/10) awarded ''God of War Collection'' (PS3) the "Editor's Choice" Award and praised the enhanced resolutions, lower price point and smoother frame rates, and stated it was the "definitive way to play the game[s]".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/104/1043793p1.html |title=God of War Collection Review |first=Chris |last=Roper |date=November 13, 2009 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=November 16, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105060436/http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/11/13/god-of-war-collection-review |archive-date=November 5, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Due to the success of ''God of War Collection'', Sony announced that further titles would receive similar treatment for release under its new "Classics HD" brand.<ref name="HD"/> The ''Origins Collection'' was similarly well received. IGN (9/10) stated "Sony succeeded at making good games better",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/119/1190707p1.html |title=God of War Origins Review |last=Miller |first=Greg |date=August 31, 2011 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=IGN |access-date=September 11, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107125828/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/08/29/god-of-war-origins-review |archive-date=November 7, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> although ''GamePro'' criticized it for its lack of new bonus content.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/222448/review-god-of-war-origins-collection-ps3/ |title=Review: God of War: Origins Collection (PS3) |date=August 29, 2011 |last=Shaw |first=Patrick |magazine=GamePro |access-date=September 11, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111101020033/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/222448/review-god-of-war-origins-collection-ps3/ |archive-date=November 1, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War Saga'' also received praise. Ryan Fleming of [[Company:Digital Trends|Digital Trends]] wrote that the collection "is perhaps the best value buy for any console available," although the collection is not likely for fans of the series, but rather inexperienced players or newcomers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/god-of-war-saga-review-all-the-god-of-war-you-can-possibly-handle/ |title=God of War Saga review: All the God of War you can possibly handle |date=September 26, 2012 |last=Fleming |first=Ryan |publisher=[[Company:Digital Trends|Digital Trends]] |access-date=November 1, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121007101522/http://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/god-of-war-saga-review-all-the-god-of-war-you-can-possibly-handle/ |archive-date=October 7, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''God of War III Remastered'' was met with generally favorable reception. Praise was given to the smoother textures and improved frame rate, though because the original already had remarkable graphics, the changes were not major, and reviewers said these changes were not a strong enough argument to rebuy the game for US$40.<ref name="GSpot-PS4">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/god-of-war-3-remastered-review/1900-6416185/ |title=God of War 3 Remastered Review |date=July 14, 2015 |last=VanOrd |first=Kevin |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=GameSpot |access-date=July 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150716163156/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/god-of-war-3-remastered-review/1900-6416185/ |archive-date=July 16, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==See also==
*Characters of God of War
*Kratos (God of War)

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==References==
===Citations===
{{Reflist}}

===Works cited===
*{{cite magazine|last=Juba|first=Joe|date=February 2018|issue=298|title=Worshipping at New Altars: How Sony is Reinventing God of War|pages=34–45|magazine=Game Informer|location=Minneapolis, Minnesota|publisher=[[Company:GameStop|GameStop]]|ref=GIcoverstory}}
*{{cite book|year=2005|editor=[[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]|title=God of War|type=Instruction manual|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|ref=GoW1manual}}
*{{cite book|year=2007|editor=[[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]|title=God of War II|type=Instruction manual|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|ref=GoW2manual}}
*{{cite book|year=2008|editor=[[Company:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]]|title=God of War: Chains of Olympus|type=Instruction manual|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|ref=CoOmanual}}
*{{cite book|year=2009|editor=[[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]|title=God of War Collection|type=Instruction manual|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|ref=GoWCmanual}}
*{{cite book|year=2010|editor=[[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]|title=God of War III|type=Instruction manual|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|ref=GoW3manual}}
*{{cite book|year=2010|editor=[[Company:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]]|title=God of War: Ghost of Sparta|type=Instruction manual|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|ref=GoSmanual}}
*{{cite book|year=2013|editor=[[Company:Santa Monica Studio|Santa Monica Studio]]|title=God of War: Ascension|type=Instruction manual|format=[[E-book|digital]]|publisher=[[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment]]|url=https://s3.amazonaws.com/gow-production-media/uploads/gowa_digiman_pdf_english.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304060531/https://s3.amazonaws.com/gow-production-media/uploads/gowa_digiman_pdf_english.pdf|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-format=[[Ebook|digital]]|url-status=dead|ref=GoWAmanual|access-date=April 18, 2016}}

==External links==

{{God of War series|state=expanded}}
{{Sony franchises}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:God of War (Series)}}
[[Category:Multiplayer and single-player video games]]

{{Sourceattribution|God of War (franchise)}}