The Norse-inspired *God of War* games have solidified their place as PlayStation icons. Beginning on the PS2, the series captivated players with thrilling action, a compelling tale of revenge, and the unforgettable Spartan demigod, Kratos. Two decades later, *God of War* has evolved into a seminal action-adventure series, seamlessly blending refined combat with rich lore and a powerful narrative, all anchored by a more mature and empathetic Kratos.
With *God of War Ragnarök* achieving legendary status, we've compiled this chronological guide for those eager to experience (or revisit) the series from its beginning.
Jump to:
How to play chronologically
How to play by release date
How Many God of War Games Are There?
Sony has released ten God of War games—six for home consoles, two for portable consoles, one mobile game, and a text adventure on Facebook Messenger.
God of War: The Complete Playlist
Here's every God of War release since the dawn of the gods. See All
We're excluding the mobile game, God of War: Mimir's Vision, as it doesn't impact the main storyline, and PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, despite its inclusion in the God of War canon. This list focuses solely on the core games. Books and comics are also part of the God of War universe but are omitted here.
Which God of War Game Should You Play First?
While God of War: Ascension is chronologically first, starting with God of War (2018) is recommended. Its availability on PS4, PS5, and PC makes it an ideal entry point for newcomers.
### For PlayStation God of War (2018)
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God of War Games in Chronological Order
(Mild spoilers below)
God of War: Ascension (2013)
Chronologically first, Ascension depicts Kratos's early transformation into the God of War, exploring his descent into darkness following the deaths of his family. He battles the Furies to break free from his oath to Ares.
Available on: PS3 | IGN’s God of War: Ascension Review
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
Set during Kratos's servitude to the gods, Chains of Olympus sees him rescue Helios, the sun god, while grappling with a potential reunion with his daughter and the consequences.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Chains of Olympus Review
God of War (2005)
Ten years after Ascension, Kratos, tormented by his past, seeks redemption by defeating Ares at Athena's behest. The game reveals his tragic backstory and his transformation into the God of War.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War Review
God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
Between the first two main God of War games, Kratos confronts his past, traveling to Atlantis to encounter his mother and long-lost brother, Deimos, ultimately battling Thanatos, the God of Death.
Available on: PS3 (Origins Collection), PSP | IGN’s God of War: Ghost of Sparta Review
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
This mobile game, part of the canon, shows Kratos defying the gods and setting the stage for God of War II. Availability is limited to Java emulators.
Available on: N/A (previously available on mobile) | IGN’s God of War: Betrayal Review
God of War II (2007)
Kratos confronts Zeus, leading to his death and subsequent alliance with Gaia, manipulating fate to wage war on Olympus.
Available on: PS3 (God of War Collection), PS2 | IGN’s God of War 2 Review
God of War III (2010)
The climactic battle against Zeus and the Olympians concludes Kratos's Greek saga.
Available on: PS4 (Remastered), PS3 | IGN’s God of War 3 Review
God of War: A Call from the Wilds (2018)
A Facebook Messenger text adventure introducing Atreus and providing backstory. No longer playable, but playthroughs are available online.
Available on: N/A (previously available on Facebook Messenger)
God of War (2018)
Years after God of War III, Kratos and Atreus journey through the Norse realms, fulfilling Faye's dying wish, while confronting Kratos's past and Atreus's identity.
Available on: PS5, PS4 | IGN’s God of War 2018 Review
God of War Ragnarök (2022)
Three years later, Kratos and Atreus face Ragnarök, exploring their identities and battling Norse gods.
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 II (2007)
God of War: Betrayal (2007)
God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
God of War III (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 Ragnarök (2022)
What’s Next for God of War?
While future entries aren't announced, the success of *God of War* (2018) and *Ragnarök* suggests more installments are likely. A *God of War* TV series is also in development for Amazon Prime Video.Looking for more order guides? Check out these:
Assassin's Creed Games in Order
Halo Games in Order
Batman Arkham Games in Order
Resident Evil Games in Order
Pokemon Games in Order
