How to Play the God of War Games in Chronological Order

The Norse saga of God of War has solidified its place as a PlayStation icon. Originating on the PS2, the franchise initially captivated players with its thrilling action and a compelling tale of revenge, featuring the iconic Spartan demigod, Kratos. Two decades later, God of War has evolved into a seminal action-adventure series, seamlessly blending refined combat with rich lore and a captivating narrative, all anchored by a more nuanced and empathetic Kratos.

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

Jump to:

• Chronological Play Order
• Release Date Play Order
• How Many God of War Games Are There?

Sony has released ten God of War games—six for home consoles, two for 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 since 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 God of War canon). This list focuses solely on the core games. This also excludes novels and comics.

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 an accessible and excellent entry point for newcomers.

God of War Games in Chronological Order

(Mild spoilers ahead)

1. God of War: Ascension (2013): A prequel detailing Kratos's early descent into becoming the God of War, exploring his transformation and the events leading to his infamous act of killing his family. Available on: PS3 | God of War: Ascension Review
2. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008): Kratos's servitude to the gods, encountering Persephone and wrestling with a chance at family reunion. Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
3. God of War (2005): Kratos's final task from Athena, his battle with Ares, and the consequences of his actions. Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | God of War Review
4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010): Kratos's journey to Atlantis, confronting his past and family ties. Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
5. God of War: Betrayal (2007): A mobile sidescroller depicting Kratos's defiance of the gods. Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | God of War: Betrayal Review
6. God of War 2 (2007): Kratos's conflict with Zeus, his journey to the Sisters of Fate, and his recruitment of the Titans. Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | God of War 2 Review
7. God of War 3 (2010): The climactic battle against Zeus and the Olympians, concluding Kratos's Greek saga. Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | God of War 3 Review
8. God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018): A Facebook Messenger text adventure introducing Atreus. Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
9. God of War (2018): Kratos and Atreus's journey through the Norse realms, facing Norse mythology figures. Available on: PS5, PS4, PC | God of War 2018 Review
10. God of War Ragnarök (2022): The sequel to the 2018 game, continuing Kratos and Atreus's adventures amidst the impending Ragnarök. Available on: PS5, PS4, PC | God of War Ragnarök Review

How to Play the God of War Games By Release Date:

1. God of War (2005)
2. God of War 2 (2007)
3. God of War: Betrayal (2007)
4. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
5. God of War 3 (2010)
6. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
7. God of War: Ascension (2013)
8. God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
9. God of War (2018)
10. God of War Ragnarök (2022)

What’s Next for God of War?

While a new God of War game hasn't been officially announced, future installments are highly anticipated given the success of the recent entries. A God of War TV series is also in development for Amazon Prime Video.

Interested in other chronological game guides? Check out Assassin's Creed, Halo, Batman Arkham, Resident Evil, and Pokémon.