This guide explores the optimal order to play the God of War games, catering to both newcomers and seasoned fans. The series boasts a rich history, spanning the Greek and Norse sagas, making the choice of starting point crucial.

All God of War Games (Essential Titles):

The series comprises ten games, but only eight are essential for a complete narrative experience. We can safely skip God of War: Betrayal (mobile) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (Facebook). The core eight are:

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:

Two primary approaches exist: release order and chronological order.

• Release Order: This follows the games' original release dates, offering a historical perspective on gameplay evolution. However, note that some prequels (like Chains of Olympus and Ghost of Sparta) may not match the production quality of the main trilogy.

  1. God of War 1 (2005)
  2. God of War 2 (2007)
  3. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
  4. God of War 3 (2010)
  5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
  6. God of War: Ascension (2013)
  7. God of War (2018)
  8. God of War Ragnarök (2022)
  9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)

• Chronological Order: This prioritizes narrative flow, but be aware of potential gameplay inconsistencies between titles. The starting game is generally considered the weakest.

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

Recommended Play Order:

This order balances narrative and gameplay experience, minimizing potential frustration for newcomers.

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

This sequence strategically places prequels to enhance understanding and avoids jarring transitions in gameplay quality. Ascension, while potentially weaker, is included for narrative completeness. Consider skipping it and watching a summary if needed.

Alternative Play Order (Norse Saga First):

This unconventional approach prioritizes modern gameplay and visual fidelity. Starting with the Norse Saga can enhance the mystery surrounding Kratos' past.

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

Ultimately, the best order depends on individual preferences. This guide offers various options to ensure a fulfilling journey through the epic world of God of War.