How to Play the God of War Games in Chronological Order

The Norse saga of God of War has secured its place as a PlayStation cornerstone. Originating in the PS2 era, the series initially captivated players with its exhilarating action, a compelling tale of divine vengeance, and the unforgettable Spartan demigod, Kratos. Two decades later, God of War has evolved into a seminal action-adventure series, seamlessly blending refined combat with richer lore and a more emotionally resonant narrative, centered around an older, more empathetic Kratos.

With God of War Ragnarök achieving legendary status, we've crafted this chronology to guide those eager to experience (or revisit) the series from its beginning.

**Jump to:**

How to Play Chronologically
How to Play by Release Date
How Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has released 10 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 release since the dawn of the gods. See All!

We're excluding God of War: Mimir's Vision (a mobile AR game offering supplementary lore) and PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale (despite its humorous inclusion in the canon). This list focuses solely on the core games.

Numerous God of War stories exist in novels and comics, but this chronology covers only the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While God of War: Ascension is chronologically first, God of War (2018) is the recommended starting point. Its availability on PS4, PS5, and PC makes it the most accessible entry for newcomers.

For PlayStation: God of War (2018)

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

(These blurbs contain minor spoilers.)

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, chronologically first, depicts Kratos's early transformation into the God of War. Months after killing his family under Ares's manipulation, Kratos defies Ares, leading to a conflict with the Furies. He ultimately leaves Sparta, still haunted by his past. Available on: PS3 | IGN's God of War: Ascension Review

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

Five years before the original God of War, Kratos serves the gods. He's tasked with rescuing Helios, encountering Persephone, who offers a chance to reunite with his daughter. Kratos grapples with this and his duty. Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN's God of War: Chains of Olympus Review

3. God of War (2005)

Ten years after Ascension, Kratos, nearing the end of his servitude, is tasked by Athena to defeat Ares. This quest reveals his tragic past as a Spartan captain who made a pact with Ares. After defeating Ares, he becomes the God of War. Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN's God of War Review

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

Between the first two main games, Kratos journeys to Atlantis, encountering his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos. They battle Thanatos, but Kratos remains consumed by fury. Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN's God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile game shows Kratos framed for murder, further escalating his conflict with Olympus. Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN's God of War: Betrayal Review

6. God of War II (2007)

Kratos confronts Zeus, is killed, but with Gaia's help, manipulates fate to recruit the Titans for war against Olympus. Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN's God of War 2 Review

7. God of War III (2010)

The war with the Olympians concludes, with Kratos ultimately defeating Zeus and sacrificing himself to bring hope to humanity. Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN's God of War 3 Review

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

A Facebook Messenger text adventure introducing Atreus and providing backstory. Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)

9. God of War (2018)

Years after God of War III, Kratos and Atreus journey through the Norse realms to fulfill Faye's dying wish, facing various Norse figures. Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN's God of War 2018 Review

10. God of War Ragnarök (2022)

Three years later, Kratos and Atreus face Ragnarök, encountering Odin and Thor. Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN's God of War Ragnarok Review

How to Play the God of War Games By Release Date

God of War (2005)
God of War II (2007)
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
God of War III (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 God of War game hasn't been announced, future installments are anticipated given the success of 2018's title and Ragnarök. A God of War TV series is also in development for Amazon Prime Video.

Looking for more chronological game guides? Check out these:

Assassin's Creed Games in Order
Halo Games in Order
Batman Arkham Games in Order
Resident Evil Games in Order
Pokémon Games in Order