The Norse saga of God of War has secured its place as a PlayStation icon. Beginning on the PS2, the series built a reputation on thrilling action, a compelling revenge story, and the unforgettable Spartan demigod, Kratos. Two decades later, God of War has evolved into a seminal action-adventure franchise, seamlessly blending refined combat with rich lore and a powerful narrative, all anchored by an older, more empathetic Kratos.
With God of War Ragnarök achieving legendary status, we've compiled this chronology to guide you through the series, whether you're a seasoned player or just beginning your journey.
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How to play chronologically
How to play by release date
How Many God of War Games Are There?
Sony has released ten God of War games – six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one mobile title, and a text adventure on Facebook Messenger.
God of War: The Complete Playlist
Here's every God of War game, from the dawn of the gods. See All
We're excluding God of War: Mimir's Vision (a mobile AR game offering supplemental lore) and PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale (despite its inclusion in the canon). This list focuses solely on the core games. Several novels and comics expand the story, but are not included here.
Which God of War Game Should You Play First?
While chronologically, God of War: Ascension comes first, starting with God of War (2018) is generally recommended. Its availability on PS4, PS5, and PC makes it an ideal entry point for newcomers.
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God of War Games in Chronological Order
(Mild spoilers ahead for characters, settings, and story elements.)
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Chronologically the first, Ascension depicts Kratos's early transformation from Spartan demigod to God of War. Months after killing his family under Ares's manipulation, Kratos defies his oath to Ares, leading to conflict with the Furies. The game concludes with a tormented Kratos leaving Sparta.
Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
Set during Kratos's servitude to the gods (five years before the first main game), Chains of Olympus tasks him with rescuing Helios. He encounters Persephone, who offers a chance to reunite with his daughter, forcing Kratos to grapple with difficult choices.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
God of War (2005)
Ten years after Ascension, Kratos, consumed by grief, attempts suicide. The game then reveals his past: his service to Ares, the pact made for victory, and his ultimate mission to defeat Ares and obtain Pandora's Box. Despite victory, Kratos's torment remains, leading to his ascension as the God of War.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
Taking place between the first two main games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's journey to Atlantis, where he encounters his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos. The confrontation with Thanatos brings further turmoil.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
This mobile game, considered canon, shows Kratos's continued defiance of the gods, culminating in his framing for murder and a threat from Zeus. It's not easily accessible today.
Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review
God of War 2 (2007)
Kratos's war with Zeus begins. Betrayed and killed, Kratos manipulates fate, enlists the Titans, and sets the stage for his final confrontation with the Olympians.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review
God of War 3 (2010)
The climactic battle against Zeus and the Olympians. Kratos's vengeance concludes, leaving the world in ruins but offering a glimmer of hope for humanity.
Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review
God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
A Facebook Messenger text adventure introducing Atreus and providing backstory. No longer easily playable.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
God of War (2018)
Kratos and Atreus journey through the Norse realms, fulfilling Faye's dying wish. The game explores Kratos's struggles with fatherhood and hidden truths, leading to the Fimbulwinter.
Available on: PS5, PS4, PC | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review
God of War Ragnarök (2022)
Three years after the previous game, Kratos and Atreus face Ragnarök, encountering familiar and new faces from Norse mythology. The game delves deeper into Atreus's identity and leaves the future open for new adventures.
Available on: PS5, PS4, PC | IGN’s God of War Ragnarok Review
How to Play the God of War Games By Release Date ------------------------------------------------God of War (2005)
God of War 2 (2007)
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
God of War 3 (2010)
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
God of War: Ascension (2013)
God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
God of War (2018)
God of War Ragnarök (2022)
What’s Next for God of War?
While a new game hasn't been announced, the success of the recent titles suggests future installments are likely. The PC release of Ragnarök is a recent development, and a God of War TV series is in the works for Amazon Prime Video, though production faced setbacks in 2024.Looking for more order guides? Check out:
Assassin's Creed Games in Order
Halo Games in Order
Batman Arkham Games in Order
Resident Evil Games in Order
Pokemon Games in Order
