In Which Order Should You Play God of War Games

This guide explores the optimal ways to experience the God of War series, catering to different preferences. The series boasts ten games, but only eight are crucial to the overarching narrative. God of War: Betrayal (mobile) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (Facebook) can be safely omitted.

All Essential God of War Games:

1. God of War 1
2. God of War 2
3. God of War 3
4. God of War: Chains of Olympus
5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
6. God of War: Ascension
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök

Popular Play Orders:

• Release Order: This follows the chronological release dates, offering a glimpse into the evolution of gameplay mechanics. However, the quality varies between titles. The order is: 1, 2, Chains of Olympus, 3, Ghost of Sparta, Ascension, 2018, Ragnarök, Ragnarök Valhalla Mode.

• Chronological Order: This prioritizes narrative flow, starting with the earliest events in Kratos' life. However, it begins with a generally weaker title and features gameplay inconsistencies. The order is: Ascension, Chains of Olympus, 1, Ghost of Sparta, 2, 3, 2018, Ragnarök, Ragnarök Valhalla Mode.

Recommended Play Order:

This order balances narrative coherence with gameplay enjoyment. It starts with the original, then strategically incorporates prequels before proceeding to the main Greek saga and finally the Norse saga. The order is: 1, Chains of Olympus, Ghost of Sparta, 2, 3, Ascension, 2018, Ragnarök, Ragnarök Valhalla Mode. Ascension is considered the weakest; skipping it and watching a summary is acceptable.

Alternative Play Order:

This approach prioritizes the newer, visually stunning and mechanically refined Norse saga first, before tackling the older Greek games. This might be preferable for players less tolerant of older game mechanics. The order is: 2018, Ragnarök, Ragnarök Valhalla Mode, Ascension, Chains of Olympus, 1, Ghost of Sparta, 2, 3.

Ultimately, the "best" order depends on individual preferences. This guide provides options to suit various play styles and tolerances for older game mechanics.