The God of War series, a cornerstone of PlayStation's legacy, has captivated gamers since its inception on the PS2. Known for its dynamic action gameplay and compelling narrative, the franchise follows the journey of Kratos, a Spartan demigod whose quest for vengeance against the gods has evolved into one of gaming's most revered action-adventure sagas. Over the past two decades, the series has matured, weaving intricate lore with a deeper, more nuanced storyline, all driven by an older and more reflective Kratos.
With God of War Ragnarok securing its status among the greats, we've crafted a comprehensive timeline for fans eager to dive into or revisit the saga from its beginnings.
Jump to:
- 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 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 chronological list of every God of War release since the saga began. 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 background lore from the God of War universe. We're also omitting PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale from this chronology, despite its humorous inclusion in the God of War canon.
There are also several God of War stories told through novels and comics, though this list focuses solely on the games.
Which God of War Game Should You Play First?
While God of War: Ascension is the first game chronologically, starting with God of War (2018) is recommended for newcomers. It's available on PS4, PS5, and PC, making it an accessible entry point into the series.
For PlayStation God of War (2018)
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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.
- God of War: Ascension (2013)
Ascension, the seventh game by release date but the first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early days as he transforms from a Spartan demigod into the God of War. Set months after Kratos is tricked into killing his family by Ares, Ascension follows Kratos as he breaks his oath to Ares, leading to a confrontation with the Furies. The game concludes with Kratos leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by his grief.
Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review
- God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
In this PSP title, Kratos embarks on a mission to rescue Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, from the underworld at Athena's request. The game explores Kratos's struggle with his past and the temptation to reunite with his daughter, offered by Persephone, Queen of the Underworld.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
- God of War (2005)
Set roughly 10 years after Ascension, the original God of War follows Kratos as he nears the end of his servitude to the gods. Tasked with defeating Ares to save Athens, Kratos's journey leads him to Pandora’s Box and a climactic battle with Ares. Despite his victory, Kratos remains tormented, culminating in his attempt to end his life, only to be saved by Athena and ascend to the throne of the God of War.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review
- God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
This PSP game, set between the first and second God of War, explores Kratos's familial ties. He journeys to Atlantis, encountering his mortal mother and long-lost brother Deimos. The game ends with Kratos growing increasingly disillusioned with the gods after battling Thanatos, the God of Death.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
- God of War: Betrayal (2007)
A mobile 2D sidescroller, Betrayal is part of the God of War canon. Kratos is framed for the murder of Argos, a giant serving Hera, further straining his relationship with Olympus. The game sets the stage for God of War 2, though it's no longer available on modern mobile platforms.
Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review
- God of War 2 (2007)
In God of War 2, Kratos's rampage leads to a confrontation with Zeus, who kills him. Revived by Gaia, Kratos seeks to alter his fate, leading to a battle with the Sisters of Fate and a revelation about his true parentage. The game ends with Kratos leading the Titans against Olympus, setting up the events of God of War 3.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review
- God of War 3 (2010)
Picking up immediately after God of War 2, God of War 3 concludes Kratos's Greek saga. His battle against the Olympians leads to a final confrontation with Zeus, after which Kratos ends his quest for vengeance and sacrifices himself to release hope to mankind.
Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review
- God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
This Facebook Messenger text-adventure introduces Kratos's son Atreus and provides background on his abilities. Set before the 2018 God of War, it's no longer playable but can be experienced through YouTube playthroughs.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
- God of War (2018)
Years after God of War 3, Kratos and his son Atreus embark on a journey to fulfill Faye's dying wish in the Norse realm of Midgard. Their adventure spans multiple realms, confronting Norse mythology's figures and exploring themes of fatherhood and identity. The game ends with the onset of Fimbulwinter, heralding Ragnarök.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review
- God of War Ragnarok (2022)
Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus as they navigate the end of Fimbulwinter and the impending Ragnarök. The game focuses on Atreus's growth and their quest to defeat the Asgards, leaving room for future stories. A New Game Plus mode is available for those who've completed the game.
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 yet to announce a new God of War game, but given the success of the 2018 and Ragnarok titles, future entries are anticipated. The latest development is the PC release of God of War: Ragnarok, and we've provided a guide to the PC port.A God of War TV series is also in development for Amazon’s Prime Video, adapting the story of the 2018 game. However, production faced challenges in 2024 following the departure of key personnel.
For more chronological gaming guides, explore these series:
- Assassin's Creed Games in Order
- Halo Games in Order
- Batman Arkham Games in Order
- Resident Evil Games in Order
- Pokemon Games in Order
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