The God of War franchise, a cornerstone of PlayStation's legacy, has evolved significantly since its inception during the PS2 era. Known for its thrilling action gameplay and a gripping narrative centered around the Spartan demigod Kratos, the series has become a defining action-adventure saga. Over the past two decades, God of War has refined its mechanics while deepening its lore and narrative, presenting a more mature and empathetic Kratos.

With the release of God of War Ragnarok, which has earned its spot among the greatest games, we've compiled a detailed chronology of the series for fans eager to explore or revisit the saga from the beginning.

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

Below is a comprehensive list of every God of War game released, offering a glimpse into Kratos's epic journey. See AllGod of War [2005]Santa Monica StudioGod of War IISanta Monica StudioGod of War: BetrayalSony Online EntertainmentGod of War: Chains of OlympusReady At Dawn StudiosGod of War CollectionBluepoint GamesGod of War IIISanta Monica StudioGod of War: Ghost of SpartaReady At Dawn StudiosGod of War OriginsReady At Dawn StudiosGod of War SagaSCE Studios Santa MonicaGod of War: AscensionSanta Monica Studio

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. Similarly, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is omitted from this chronology despite its 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. Available on PS4, PS5, and PC, it serves as an excellent entry point into the series.

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God of War Games in Chronological Order

These summaries include mild spoilers regarding characters, settings, and story beats.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)Ascension, the seventh game by release but first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early transformation into the God of War. Set months after Kratos's tragic manipulation by Ares, it follows his refusal to honor an oath, leading to a confrontation with the Furies. Kratos's journey ends with him leaving his Spartan home, still haunted by his past.

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

2. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008) This PSP title, set during Kratos's servitude to the gods, sees him rescuing Helios at Athena's request. Kratos faces a moral dilemma with Persephone, who offers him a chance to reunite with his daughter amidst apocalyptic stakes.

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

3. God of War (2005) Set a decade after Ascension, this game begins with Kratos's suicide attempt, flashing back to his final task: defeating Ares to save Athens. His journey to Pandora’s Box and ultimate victory over Ares culminates in his ascension to God of War, though his past still haunts him.

   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 game and its sequel, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's quest in Atlantis to find his mother and brother Deimos. Their battle against Thanatos ends in another tragic note, further fueling Kratos's rage against the gods.

   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, part of the canon, sees Kratos framed for the killing of Argos, fracturing his relationship with Olympus. His defiance sets the stage for God of War 2. The game is no longer available on modern platforms but can be emulated.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007) Kratos's war against Zeus begins after his rejection of peace leads to his death and revival by Gaia. His journey to the Sisters of Fate and subsequent revelation of his true parentage sets the stage for a final assault on Olympus.

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

7. God of War 3 (2010) Concluding Kratos's Greek saga, God of War 3 sees him and the Titans battling the Olympians. His journey through betrayal and epic battles culminates in a final showdown with Zeus, ending with Kratos sacrificing himself to restore 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) A text-adventure on Facebook Messenger, this game introduces Atreus and his abilities, set before the 2018 God of War. While no longer playable, it provides background on Kratos and Atreus's family dynamics.

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

9. 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 travels through the Nine Realms introduce Norse mythology and Kratos's struggles with fatherhood and secrets.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)To avoid spoilers, this synopsis is deliberately vague.

    Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus during Fimbulwinter, leading to Ragnarök. The narrative focuses on Atreus's growth and their quest to defeat the Asgards. The game leaves room for future stories and includes 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 success of the recent titles, more entries seem likely. God of War: Ragnarok has been released on PC, and a guide to the PC port is available. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon’s Prime Video, though production faced delays in 2024.

For fans interested in other chronological game guides, consider exploring series like Assassin's Creed, Halo, Batman Arkham, Resident Evil, and Pokemon.