In Which Order Should You Play God of War Games

This guide explores the optimal ways to experience the God of War series, catering to different preferences. The series boasts ten games, but eight are crucial to the overarching narrative. God of War: Betrayal and God of War: A Call from the Wilds can be safely omitted.

All Essential God of War Games:

1. God of War 1
2. God of War 2
3. God of War 3
4. God of War: Chains of Olympus
5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
6. God of War: Ascension
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök

Popular Playthrough Orders:

• Release Order: This follows the chronological release dates, offering a glimpse into the evolution of gameplay mechanics. However, note that some earlier titles might feel less polished compared to later entries.

  

  1. God of War 1 (2005)
  2. God of War 2 (2007)
  3. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
  4. God of War 3 (2010)
  5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
  6. God of War: Ascension (2013)
  7. God of War (2018)
  8. God of War Ragnarök (2022)
  9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)

• Chronological Order: This prioritizes narrative flow, starting with the earliest events in Kratos' story. Be aware that the initial game in this order is often considered the weakest in terms of gameplay.

  

  1. God of War: Ascension
  2. God of War: Chains of Olympus
  3. God of War 1
  4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
  5. God of War 2
  6. God of War 3
  7. God of War (2018)
  8. God of War Ragnarök
  9. God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla (Free DLC)

Recommended Playthrough Order:

This order balances narrative coherence with gameplay enjoyment, starting with the original and strategically incorporating prequels.

1. God of War 1
2. God of War: Chains of Olympus
3. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
4. God of War 2
5. God of War 3
6. God of War: Ascension (Consider skipping if the gameplay feels dated; a YouTube summary suffices.)
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök
9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode

Alternative Playthrough Order (Norse Saga First):

This approach prioritizes the modern, enhanced gameplay of the Norse Saga before tackling the older Greek Saga entries. While controversial among fans, it offers a less jarring transition for newcomers.

1. God of War (2018)
2. God of War Ragnarök
3. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode
4. God of War: Ascension
5. God of War: Chains of Olympus
6. God of War 1
7. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
8. God of War 2
9. God of War 3

Ultimately, the "best" order depends on individual preferences. This guide provides options to cater to various playstyles and expectations.