The God of War series, a cornerstone of PlayStation's iconic franchises, began during the PS2 era and has evolved into one of gaming's seminal action-adventure series. Initially known for its thrilling action gameplay and the compelling tale of divine revenge led by the Spartan demigod Kratos, the franchise has matured over two decades. It now offers a blend of finely-tuned action, deeper lore, and a more nuanced narrative, highlighted by an older, more empathetic Kratos. With the recent acclaim of God of War Ragnarok, we present a comprehensive chronology of the series for those eager to embark on or revisit this epic journey.

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How to play chronologicallyHow to play by release dateHow Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has released 10 God of War games in the series — six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and one text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Here's a detailed look at every God of War release, spanning from the dawn of the gods to the present day. See All!

We’re excluding its second mobile release, God of War: Mimir’s Vision, as this AR game doesn’t contribute to the ongoing narrative but instead offers players background lore from the world of God of War. We’re also excluding PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale from this chronology, despite its comical inclusion in the God of War canon.

There are several God of War stories told through novels and comics as well, though this list only includes games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

Although God of War: Ascension is the first game in the series chronologically, the best starting point for newcomers is God of War (2018). Available on both PS4 and PS5, as well as on PC, it serves as an excellent introduction to the series.

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

These blurbs contain mild spoilers for each game, including characters, settings, and story beats.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game by release date but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos’s early days as he transitions from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set shortly after Kratos is manipulated into killing his family by Ares, he refuses to honor his oath to the god, leading to a confrontation with the Furies. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, haunted by his grief.

Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review

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

In Chains of Olympus, Kratos embarks on a mission to rescue Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, during his ten-year servitude to the gods. The story explores Kratos’s internal conflict as he confronts Persephone, who offers him a chance to reunite with his daughter, weighing the consequences against his duty.

Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review

3. God of War (2005)

Set ten years after Ascension, the original God of War begins with Kratos’s attempt to end his life, followed by a flashback to his final task: defeating Ares to save Athens. Kratos's journey to obtain Pandora’s Box and confront Ares is fraught with trials, culminating in his ascension to the God of War, despite his inner turmoil.

Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review

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

Set between the first game and God of War II, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos’s familial ties as he searches for his mother and brother Deimos in Atlantis. The game ends with Kratos further alienated from the gods after a battle with Thanatos.

Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile game is part of the God of War canon, where Kratos is framed for the death of Argos, further straining his relationship with Olympus. Betrayal sets the stage for the events of God of War II.

Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review

6. God of War 2 (2007)

In God of War 2, Kratos's defiance leads to a confrontation with Zeus, who kills him. With the help of Gaia, Kratos manipulates time to alter his fate, setting the stage for a war against Olympus.

Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review

7. God of War 3 (2010)

God of War 3 concludes Kratos’s Greek saga as he battles Zeus and the Olympians, leading to a climactic end where he sacrifices himself to release hope to mankind.

Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review

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

This text-adventure on Facebook Messenger introduces Kratos's son Atreus and provides background on his abilities and relationships, set before the 2018 game.

Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)

9. God of War (2018)

Set years after God of War 3, this game transports Kratos to the Norse realm of Midgard, where he and his son Atreus embark on a journey to fulfill Faye’s dying wish. Their travels through the Nine Realms lead to the onset of Fimbulwinter, the precursor to Ragnarök.

Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Given the recency of Ragnarok's release, this plot synopsis is kept vague to avoid spoilers.

Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the end of Fimbulwinter and the looming threat of Ragnarök. The game focuses on personal growth and survival, leaving room for future narratives.

Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War Ragnarok Review

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 Ragnarok (2022)

What’s Next for God of War?

Looking for more in order guides like this? Explore chronological adventures with these other series:

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