The **God of War** series, one of PlayStation's most iconic franchises, has captivated gamers since its inception during the PS2 era. With its roots deeply entrenched in thrilling action gameplay and a gripping narrative centered around the Spartan demigod Kratos, the series has evolved over 20 years into a seminal action-adventure saga. The latest entries, set in the Norse mythology, have refined the action and deepened the lore, presenting a more empathetic Kratos. The success of **God of War Ragnarok** has solidified the series' place among gaming's all-time greats. For fans eager to dive into the epic journey from the beginning, we've crafted this comprehensive guide to playing the series chronologically or by release date.

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Active God of War Games

Sony has released a total of 10 God of War games across various platforms: six on home consoles, two on portable consoles, one on mobile, and one text-adventure on Facebook Messenger.

The Complete God of War Playlist

Below is a list of every God of War game released to date, accompanied by brief descriptions and their respective developers:

We're not including God of War: Mimir’s Vision, the second mobile release, as it's an AR game that enriches the world's lore without advancing the main narrative. Similarly, we've omitted PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale from this chronology, despite its place in the God of War canon.

There are also God of War stories in novels and comics, but this guide focuses solely on the games.

Starting Your God of War Journey

While God of War: Ascension is the first game chronologically, for newcomers, we recommend starting with God of War (2018). It's accessible on PS4, PS5, and PC, making it an ideal entry point into the series.

God of War Games in Chronological Order

These descriptions include mild spoilers for each game, covering characters, settings, and key plot points.

1. God of War: Ascension (2013)

Ascension, the seventh game by release but first chronologically, delves into Kratos's early days as a Spartan demigod, set months after he's manipulated into killing his family by Ares. Refusing his oath to Ares, Kratos faces the vengeful Furies, leading to his departure from Sparta, still haunted by his grief.

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

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

Set midway through Kratos's ten-year servitude to the gods, Chains of Olympus sees Kratos rescuing Helios from the underworld at Athena's request. He confronts Persephone, who offers him a chance to reunite with his daughter, forcing him to weigh the world's fate against his personal desires.

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

3. God of War (2005)

Set roughly 10 years after Ascension, this game begins with Kratos's suicide attempt, flashing back to his final task from Athena: defeat Ares and save Athens. His journey to obtain Pandora's Box and confront Ares takes him through hellish trials, ending with him becoming the God of War after Athena rescues him from the sea.

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 first two main games, Ghost of Sparta explores Kratos's familial ties, including his journey to Atlantis to meet his mother and brother Deimos. Despite their reunion and victory over Thanatos, Kratos grows increasingly disillusioned with the Olympians.

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

5. God of War: Betrayal (2007)

This mobile game, part of the official canon, sees Kratos framed for the death of Argos by an assassin, further straining his relationship with the gods. It's no longer available on modern devices but can be experienced through Java emulators.

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

6. God of War 2 (2007)

After rejecting Athena's peace offer, Kratos faces Zeus's wrath, who kills him. Revived by Gaia, Kratos manipulates the Loom of Fate to alter his past, leading to a battle against the Olympians and setting up the events of God of War 3.

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

7. God of War 3 (2010)

Directly following the previous game, Kratos's war against the Olympians reaches its climax. After numerous betrayals and battles, Kratos defeats Zeus, ending his Greek saga by 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)

A text-adventure on Facebook Messenger, this game introduces Atreus and his extrasensory abilities, set before the events of God of War 2018. Though no longer playable, its story can be viewed on YouTube.

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 through the Norse realms to fulfill Faye's dying wish. They encounter Norse gods and mythical beings, with Kratos grappling with fatherhood and his past.

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

10. God of War Ragnarok (2022)

Set three years after the 2018 game, Ragnarok follows Kratos and Atreus as they face the impending Ragnarök. With a focus on Atreus's identity and powers, the game spans all nine realms, leaving room for future stories.

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 following the success of the 2018 game and Ragnarok, fans can anticipate future entries. The latest development is the PC release of God of War: Ragnarok. Additionally, a God of War TV series is in development for Amazon's Prime Video, though it faced delays after the departure of key personnel in 2024.

For fans looking for more chronological guides, explore our lists for Assassin's Creed, Halo, Batman Arkham, Resident Evil, and Pokemon series.