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"God of War: Chronological Gameplay Guide"

by Camila May 04,2025

The God of War series has established itself as a cornerstone of PlayStation's legacy, beginning with its PS2 debut and evolving into a hallmark of the action-adventure genre. Spanning two decades, the franchise has grown from a thrilling tale of divine retribution to a richly detailed saga featuring a more mature and empathetic Kratos.

Following the monumental success of God of War Ragnarok, we've put together a comprehensive timeline for fans looking to dive into or revisit the series from its inception.

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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 in total. This includes six for home consoles, two for portable consoles, one for mobile devices, and one text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

God of War: The Complete Playlist

Here's a rundown of every God of War game released, starting from the very first:

God of War [2005]Santa Monica Studio

God of War IISanta Monica Studio

God of War: BetrayalSony Online Entertainment

God of War: Chains of OlympusReady At Dawn Studios

God of War CollectionBluepoint Games

God of War IIISanta Monica Studio

God of War: Ghost of SpartaReady At Dawn Studios

God of War OriginsReady At Dawn Studios

God of War SagaSCE Studios Santa Monica

God of War: AscensionSanta Monica Studio

We've omitted God of War: Mimir’s Vision, a mobile AR game, as it doesn't contribute to the overarching narrative but rather enriches the lore. Additionally, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, despite its inclusion in the God of War canon, is not part of this chronology.

The series also extends into novels and comics, though our focus here is exclusively on the games.

Which God of War Game Should You Play First?

While God of War: Ascension is the earliest game chronologically, for new players, starting with God of War (2018) is advisable. It's accessible on both PS4 and PS5, as well as PC, making it an excellent entry point into the series.

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

These summaries contain light spoilers regarding characters, settings, and key plot points.

God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game released but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos’s early journey from a Spartan demigod to the God of War. Set shortly after Kratos unknowingly kills his family under Ares's manipulation, he breaks his oath to Ares, triggering a pursuit by the Furies. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his homeland, still haunted by his past.

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

God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)

In this PSP title, Kratos is halfway through his servitude to the gods, tasked with rescuing Helios. Confronted by Persephone, he faces a choice between reuniting with his daughter and fulfilling his duty to the gods.

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

God of War (2005)

Set a decade after Ascension, this game follows Kratos's final task to defeat Ares, save Athens, and earn forgiveness. It ends with Kratos's ascension to the God of War throne, though his inner turmoil persists.

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

God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)

Taking place between the first and second games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's past, including his mother and brother Deimos. The story deepens Kratos's resentment toward the gods.

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

God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile game, part of the series' canon, sees Kratos framed for murder, further straining his relationship with Olympus. Though not available on modern platforms, it's skippable.

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

God of War 2 (2007)

In this sequel, Kratos's rampage leads to his death at Zeus's hands. Resurrected by Gaia, he seeks to alter his fate, ultimately setting the stage for a war against Olympus.

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

God of War 3 (2010)

Following directly from the previous game, Kratos's battle against Zeus culminates in a world-shattering conflict. His journey concludes with a sacrifice to restore hope to humanity.

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

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

This text-adventure, set before God of War (2018), introduces Atreus and offers insight into his relationship with Kratos and his mother Faye. Though no longer playable, it's non-essential.

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

God of War (2018)

Years after the Greek saga, Kratos and his son Atreus embark on a journey through the Norse realms to fulfill Faye's dying wish. Their adventure sets the stage for Ragnarök.

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

God of War Ragnarok (2022)

To avoid spoilers, this summary remains brief.

Set three years after the previous game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the Nine Realms during Fimbulwinter, facing new challenges and exploring their identities.

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 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?

Sony has not yet announced a new God of War game, but given the success of the recent entries, more adventures are likely on the horizon. God of War: Ragnarok has been released on PC, and a TV series based on the 2018 game is in development for Amazon's Prime Video, though it faced production delays in 2024.

For more chronological guides, explore these series: