The God of War franchise has been an institution in the gaming world since its first title was released in 2005.
Many successful sequels have followed, but what are they and what is the game’s timeline?
God of War game release order
God of War (2005)
The first entry in the God of War series provided an introduction to the hack-and-slash style and strategy elements of gameplay.
It also introduces Kratos, the tortured and complex protagonist of the franchise.
God of War II (2007)
The second part continued the story of the first part, but the quality of the gameplay was noticeably improved.
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
Chains of Olympus is a prequel to GoW I that first came out on the PSP and later came out on the PS3 as part of the GoW: Origins Collection.
God of War III (2010)
The third game marked the end of the original trilogy and provides a soul-searching end to Kratos’ journey.
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
This is the second GoW game on the PSP and was available on PS3 the year after its release.
The story is set between GoW I and II. Watch Kratos visit the mythical underwater city of Atlantis.
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Ascension is the seventh installment in the series and the first chapter in the chronological Kratos story.
Learn how to play the game in story order.
God of War (2018)
The latest release is more character-centric and sees players controlling an older, more thoughtful Kratos, trying to teach their son how to defend himself.
It offers all recognizable battles and puzzles, but takes you from the ancient Greek world to Norse mythology.
It’s also the first game in the series to be ported to PC.
God of War: Ragnarok (expected 2022)
The next game will be the return of Kratos and his precocious son Atreus from the series.
It is targeted for release in 2022, but no specific schedule has been released yet.
God of War timeline order
According to GuideFall, to experience Kratos’ story in chronological order, you’ll need to play the game out of sync from its release date.
But to do that, the two games are on a handheld device, so you’ll have to move them between consoles.
They suggest the following order.
- ascension
- chain of olympus
- God of War (2005)
- ghost of sparta
- God of War II
- God of War III
- God of War (2018)
We recommend that you last play Ragnarok, an upcoming but yet unreleased God of War title.