How to Play the God of War Games in Chronological Order

The God of War series, a hallmark of PlayStation's iconic franchises, has captivated gamers since its inception during the PS2 era. Known for its compelling action gameplay and a gripping narrative centered around the Spartan demigod Kratos, the franchise has evolved significantly over 20 years. From its origins rooted in divine revenge to its current exploration of deeper lore and emotional storytelling, the series has grown into a seminal action-adventure saga. Kratos, now an older and more empathetic figure, anchors the narrative, making the series resonate with fans old and new.

With God of War Ragnarok securing its status among the all-time greats, we've crafted this comprehensive guide for those eager to experience or revisit the series from the start.

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 comprehensive look at every God of War release, providing a timeline from the dawn of the gods to the present day.

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 not including PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale in this chronology, despite its humorous inclusion in the God of War canon.

There are also 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 technically the first game in the series chronologically, starting with God of War (2018) is highly recommended. It's accessible on both PS4 and PS5, as well as on PC, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers to the series.

For PlayStation God of War (2018)

Upgrade to the PS5 version through the PlayStation Store. See it at Amazon

God of War Games in Chronological Order

These summaries include mild spoilers for each game, covering characters, settings, and story elements.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh God of War game by release date but the first chronologically, delves into the early days of Kratos's transformation into the God of War. Set months after Kratos is tricked into killing his wife and daughter by Ares, Ascension follows Kratos as he breaks his oath to Ares, prompting the god to send the Furies after him. Kratos's journey ends with him leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by grief.

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

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

In Chains of Olympus, Kratos is five years into his ten-year servitude to the gods. Tasked by Athena to rescue Helios, the Titan God of the Sun, from the underworld, Kratos faces Persephone, who tempts him with a chance to reunite with his daughter. The game explores Kratos's struggle between his duty and the apocalyptic consequences of his potential reunion.

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

3. God of War (2005)

Set roughly ten years after Ascension, the original God of War game begins with Kratos's attempted suicide, followed by a flashback three weeks prior. Tasked by Athena to defeat Ares and save Athens, Kratos seeks Pandora’s Box to kill the God of War. The game concludes with Kratos's ascension to the throne of the God of War, but not before revealing his backstory as a Spartan captain who made a pact with Ares.

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 original God of War and God of War II, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's familial ties. His journey to Atlantis leads him to his mortal mother and long-lost brother Deimos, culminating in a battle against Thanatos. Despite victory, Kratos's frustration with the gods deepens.

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

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile 2D sidescroller is canon, according to Sony Santa Monica's Bruno Velazquez. Kratos is framed for killing Argos, further straining his relationship with Olympus. Zeus attempts to stop him, but Kratos's defiance sets the stage for God of War II. The game is not available on modern platforms and can be skipped, but emulators exist for those interested.

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

6. God of War II (2007)

God of War II sees Kratos battling Zeus after rejecting peace. Killed by Zeus, Kratos is resurrected by Gaia, leading him to the Sisters of Fate to alter his destiny. The game ends with Kratos recruiting Titans for an assault on Olympus, setting up God of War III.

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

7. God of War III (2010)

Picking up immediately after God of War II, God of War III concludes Kratos's Greek saga. After a devastating battle with the Olympians, Kratos descends into the Underworld, teams up with an old ally, and finally confronts Zeus. The game ends with Kratos releasing 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 Facebook Messenger text-adventure introduces Kratos's son Atreus and provides context for his abilities and relationships. Set before God of War (2018), it's no longer playable but can be experienced via YouTube playthroughs.

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

9. God of War (2018)

Set years after God of War III, Kratos moves to the Norse realm of Midgard with Atreus. Their quest to fulfill Faye’s dying wish leads them through multiple realms, encountering Norse mythology figures. The game ends with the onset of Fimbulwinter, signaling Ragnarök's approach.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Set three years after God of War (2018), Ragnarok explores the end of Fimbulwinter and the impending Ragnarök. Kratos and Atreus navigate personal quests and the larger battle against the Asgards. The game leaves room for future stories and offers a New Game Plus mode.

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 series' success, future entries are anticipated. The recent PC release of God of War: Ragnarok marks the latest development, and a guide for the PC port is available. Additionally, a live-action TV series based on the 2018 game is in development for Amazon's Prime Video, though it faced setbacks with the departure of key personnel in 2024.

For more chronological gaming guides, consider exploring:

• Assassin's Creed Games in Order
• Halo Games in Order
• Batman Arkham Games in Order
• Resident Evil Games in Order
• Pokemon Games in Order