God of War Gameplay Video
Featured: Game Comparisons
God of War Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | Proprietary Engine (Santa Monica Studio) |
| Genre | Action-Adventure, Third-Person, Narrative-Driven |
| Initial PS4 Release | 2018-04-20 |
| PC Release | 2022-01-14 |
| Developer | SIE Santa Monica Studio |
| Publisher | Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Setting | Ancient Norse Realms (Midgard, Alfheim, Helheim, etc.) |
| Perspective | Third-Person (Over-the-shoulder free camera) |
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, Windows PC, PlayStation 5 (via Backward Compatibility with enhancements) |
| Multiplayer | Single-player Only |
| Unique Feature | Reimagining of Kratos in Norse mythology, father-son dynamic with Atreus as an active companion, satisfying Leviathan Axe combat, seamless one-shot camera presentation. |
God of War System Requirements
Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low
tune Minimum (Target: 720p, 30 FPS, Low Preset) – Low Preset.
Recommended_1080p_30FPS_Original
tune Recommended (Target: 1080p, 30 FPS, Original PS4 Preset) – Original Preset (comparable to PS4 quality).
High_1080p_60FPS_Original
tune High (Target: 1080p, 60 FPS, Original PS4 Preset) – Original Preset.
Performance_1440p_60FPS_High
tune Performance (Target: 1440p, 60 FPS, High Preset) – High Preset, Upscaling (DLSS/FSR 'Quality' or 'Balanced') likely needed.
Ultra_4K_60FPS_Ultra
tune Ultra (Target: 4K, 60 FPS, Ultra Preset) – Ultra Preset, Upscaling (DLSS/FSR 'Performance' or 'Balanced') essential.
God of War Laptop Recommendations
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4060 140W
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
1749
Model: Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (i9-14900HX, RTX 4060)
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4060 (Score: 6700) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (WQXGA)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory AMD Ryzen 7 7435 HS
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3050 75W
storage 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
799
Model: ASUS TUF A15 with RTX 3050 and Ryzen 7
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7435 HS (Score: 1655)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050 (Score: 7220) @ 75W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4070
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
1699
Model: MSI Creator M16 HX with RTX 4070
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 (Score: 8700)
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4070
storage 16GB DDR5-5600MHz
1615
Model: ASUS ROG Strix G16 with RTX 4070
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 (Score: 8700)
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4080
storage 64 GB DDR5-5600MHz
2699
Model: HP OMEN 16 with RTX 4080 and intel i9 14th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 (Score: 10500)
storage RAM: 64 GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4080
storage 64GB DDR5-5600MHz
3399
Model: Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 2024 With Rtx 4080
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 (Score: 12500)
storage RAM: 64GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 4000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (2.5K)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4080
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
2499
Model: ASUS ROG Strix G18 with RTX 4080 and intel i9 14th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 (Score: 12500)
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4080
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
2699
Model: MSI Vector 17 HX with RTX 4080 in 2025
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 (Score: 12500)
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4080
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
2999
Model: ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 Gaming Laptop with RTX 4080
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 (Score: 12500)
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
memory AMD Ryzen 9 7845 HX
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4080
storage Up to 64GB DDR5
2799
Model: Dell Alienware M16 Gaming Laptop with RTX 4080
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7845 HX (Score: 2078)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 (Score: 12500)
storage RAM: Up to 64GB DDR5
save Storage: 4000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (WQXGA)
Meets criteria for tier: Minimum_720p_30FPS_Low - Minimum (Low Preset.).
-
Core Requirements
- desktop_windowsOperating System: Windows 10 64-bit (version 1809 or newer)
A 64-bit version of Windows 10 (version 1809 or higher) or Windows 11 is required.
- save_altStorage Note: 70 GB available space (SSD Recommended)
An SSD is highly recommended for faster loading times and smoother texture streaming.
settings_applications Optimization Notes:
Upscaling: Supports NVIDIA DLSS and AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR). NVIDIA Reflex is also supported for low latency.
Key Settings: Resolution, Model Quality, Shadows, Reflections, Atmospherics, Anisotropic Filtering, and Ambient Occlusion significantly impact performance.
God of War: Post-Launch Content / DLC
God of War (2018) did not receive any story-based DLC expansions. Post-launch updates included a New Game Plus mode (allowing players to restart with gear and abilities, facing tougher enemies and new upgrade tiers for equipment - Skap Slag resource), and a Photo Mode.
God of War: Game Editions
Standard Edition (base game). Digital Deluxe Edition (includes Death's Vow Armor Set for Kratos and Atreus, Exile's Guardian Shield Skin, God of War Digital Comic #0 by Dark Horse, God of War Digital Mini Artbook by Dark Horse, and a PS4 Dynamic Theme). Collector's Edition (included a 9-inch Kratos & Atreus statue, Steelbook case, 2” Huldra Brothers carvings, exclusive lithograph, cloth map, and digital content from Deluxe). Stone Mason Edition (included items from Collector's Edition plus Stone Mason's ring, Mimir's head talking keychain, 2” horse and troll carvings).
God of War: Cross-Platform / Crossplay
God of War (2018) is a single-player game, so cross-play is not applicable. Save game progression could be transferred from PS4 to PS5 for continued play via backward compatibility. The PC version is separate.
God of War Specific Game Elements
God of War Weapons
- securityAtreus's Runic Summons (Companion Special Ability)
Atreus can equip Runic Summons that allow him to call upon spectral animals (e.g., wolves, squirrels, stags) to attack or distract enemies. These summons have cooldowns and can be upgraded.
- securityAtreus's Talon Bow (Companion Ranged Weapon (Support))
Atreus wields the Talon Bow and assists Kratos in combat. He can fire Light Arrows (can stun enemies, activate light crystals for puzzles) and later Shock Arrows (electric damage, chains between enemies). His quiver capacity and arrow types can be upgraded. He can also be directed to fire at specific targets.
- securityBare-Handed Combat (Melee (Stun Focused))
When the Leviathan Axe is thrown or Kratos chooses to, he can fight bare-handed. These attacks deal more stun damage, making enemies susceptible to finishers (R3 prompts).
- securityBlades of Chaos (Primary Melee Weapon (Fire Elemental))
Kratos's iconic double-chained blades from his past, infused with fire elemental magic. They are unlocked later in the game and offer a faster, wider-reaching combat style compared to the axe. Also feature two slots for Runic Attacks and can be upgraded.
- securityGuardian Shield (Defensive & Offensive Tool)
A retractable shield on Kratos's left forearm. Used for blocking incoming attacks, parrying (which can open enemies to counter-attacks), and performing shield bash attacks. Can be upgraded through skills.
- securityLeviathan Axe (Primary Melee & Ranged Weapon (Ice Elemental))
Kratos's main weapon for a significant portion of the game. A magical battle axe imbued with ice elemental magic. It can be used for close-quarters combat (light and heavy attacks, combos), thrown at enemies, and magically summoned back to Kratos's hand. It can freeze enemies and environmental objects. Features two slots for Runic Attacks (light and heavy) and can be upgraded with Pommels and Frozen Flames.
- securitySpartan Rage (Special Ability / Combat Mode)
A rage meter that builds up during combat. When activated, Kratos enters a frenzied state, becoming temporarily invulnerable and unleashing powerful bare-handed attacks that can also restore some health. Can be upgraded with skills.
God of War Vehicles
- directions_carMystic Gateways (Fast Travel) (Realm Traversal System)
Not a vehicle, but the primary method for fast travel between discovered Mystic Gateway locations within and between the Nine Realms, using the World Tree (Yggdrasil) network via Brok and Sindri's shops or the Realm Travel Room.
- directions_carRowboat (Water Traversal)
Kratos and Atreus primarily use a rowboat to navigate the Lake of Nine in Midgard and other accessible waterways in different realms. The boat is also a setting for conversations and stories told by Mimir.
God of War Characters
- personAtreus - Deuteragonist / Kratos's Son / Archer
Kratos's young son, who accompanies him on their journey. He assists in combat with his Talon Bow, can read Norse runes, and is central to the game's narrative and Kratos's character development. He is unaware of his and Kratos's true divine nature for much of the game.
- personBaldur (The Stranger) - Primary Antagonist / Aesir God
An Aesir god, son of Odin and Freya, who feels no pain due to a spell cast by his mother. He relentlessly pursues Kratos and Atreus for unknown reasons at the start, serving as a primary antagonist and recurring boss.
- personBrok and Sindri (Huldra Brothers) - Allies / Dwarven Blacksmiths
Two estranged dwarven brothers renowned for their smithing skills. They crafted the Leviathan Axe and Mjölnir. They serve as shopkeepers, upgrading Kratos and Atreus's gear and providing comic relief.
- personFaye (Laufey the Just) - Kratos's Deceased Wife / Atreus's Mother / Giantess
A Frost Giant (Jötunn) and Kratos's second wife. Her death and last wish to have her ashes scattered from the highest peak in all realms sets the main story in motion. Her true nature is a mystery for much of the game.
- personFreya (The Witch of the Woods / Former Valkyrie Queen) - Ally / Powerful Vanir Goddess
A mysterious witch who aids Kratos and Atreus. She is later revealed to be the Vanir goddess Freya, former wife of Odin and mother of Baldur. She is a powerful magic user and former Queen of the Valkyries.
- personKratos - Protagonist / Former Greek God of War (playable)
The main playable character. Years after destroying the Greek pantheon, he lives a quieter life in the Norse realm of Midgard with his son Atreus, trying to control his immense rage and be a better father following the death of his wife, Faye.
- personMagni and Modi - Antagonists / Aesir Gods / Sons of Thor
Two sons of Thor who serve Odin and confront Kratos and Atreus during their journey.
- personMimir - Ally / The Smartest Man Alive (Decapitated Head)
An ancient being of immense knowledge, formerly Odin's advisor. Kratos reanimates his severed head with Freya's help. Mimir serves as a guide, storyteller, and provides lore and context about the Norse realms and mythology. Hangs from Kratos's belt.
- personThe Valkyries (Optional Bosses) - Optional Antagonists / Corrupted Warriors
Nine powerful warriors, Odin's former elite, whose physical forms were corrupted by a curse. Defeating them is a challenging series of optional boss fights.
Top 3 Characters:
The protagonist, a changed man attempting to control his rage and be a father, while still possessing immense power. 2. Atreus: Kratos's son, who grows from a boy into a capable warrior and archer, central to the emotional core of the story. 3. Mimir: The decapitated 'Smartest Man Alive,' reanimated by Freya, who accompanies Kratos and Atreus, providing lore, guidance, and comedic relief.
God of War Missions / Objectives
- flagDefeating the Valkyries (Optional Bosses)
Objective: Finding and defeating eight corrupted Valkyries hidden in various realms, followed by a final battle against the Valkyrie Queen, Sigrún. These are some of the most challenging combat encounters in the game, rewarding powerful gear.
- flagFavors (Side Quests)
Objective: Optional quests given by various characters Kratos and Atreus meet, such as Brok, Sindri, spirits, or wayward souls. These often involve exploring specific areas, defeating mini-bosses, finding items, or helping characters with their problems, rewarding XP, Hacksilver, resources, and unique gear or enchantments.
- flagFreeing the Dragons (Optional Side Quest Chain)
Objective: Finding and freeing three trapped dragons (Fáfnir, Otr, Reginn) in Midgard by destroying their shrines and breaking their chains. Rewards a unique Dragon Tear and XP.
- flagLabors (Combat & Exploration Challenges)
Objective: A list of ongoing challenges related to combat (e.g., kill X enemies with a specific attack), exploration (e.g., find X collectibles), or skill usage. Completing Labors rewards XP.
- flagMuspelheim Trials (Optional Realm)
Objective: A series of increasingly difficult combat challenges in the fiery realm of Muspelheim. Completing these trials rewards unique resources, armor sets, and enchantments. There are six main trials, each with normal and hard versions, plus a final set of impossible challenges.
- flagNiflheim's Maze (Optional Realm)
Objective: Navigating a procedurally generated, mist-filled workshop maze in Niflheim. Players must collect Mist Echoes to craft and upgrade unique armor and open chests, all while a deadly mist timer ticks down. Also involves defeating enemies and traps.
- flagRealm Exploration & Realm Tears
Objective: Exploring the Nine Realms (Midgard, Alfheim, Helheim, Muspelheim, Niflheim, Jötunheim). This includes finding Mystic Gateways for fast travel, closing Realm Tears (which often spawn challenging enemies), and discovering hidden areas and collectibles.
- flagThe Journey (Main Story Quests)
Objective: A series of interconnected narrative quests following Kratos and Atreus as they embark on a journey to scatter Faye's ashes from the highest peak in all Nine Realms. This involves traveling through various Norse realms, solving environmental puzzles, battling gods and monsters, and uncovering secrets about their family and the world.
Top 3 Missions/Objectives (Conceptual based on game structure):
Faye's Last Wish: The central journey to reach the highest peak in all Nine Realms to scatter Faye's ashes, driving the main narrative and exploration. 2. Defeating The Stranger (Baldur): The initial, impactful boss fight that sets the tone and introduces a primary antagonist. 3. Freeing the Dragons / Defeating Valkyries (Optional): Significant side quests involving freeing three trapped dragons (Fáfnir, Otr, Reginn) and challenging nine powerful, optional Valkyrie bosses for high-tier rewards.
God of War Companions / Summons
- groupAtreus (Human/God/Jötunn Hybrid)
Ability: Kratos's son and constant companion. Atreus actively participates in combat by firing arrows from his Talon Bow (Light Arrows for stun/utility, Shock Arrows for electrical damage), choking enemies, providing warnings, and using Runic Summons (spectral animals). He can read Norse runes, helping solve puzzles and understand lore. His abilities and gear are upgradable. He also revives Kratos if he falls in combat (limited). His dialogue and interactions are crucial to the narrative and world-building.
- groupMimir (Head) (Aesir (formerly), Reanimated Head)
Ability: After being reanimated by Freya, Mimir's head is carried by Kratos at his belt. Mimir provides extensive lore, tells stories of Norse mythology during travel (especially in the boat), offers contextual advice, can translate ancient languages, and acts as a guide through the Nine Realms. He also provides humorous commentary.
God of War Collectibles
- collections_bookmarkArtifact Sets
Location/Use: Various sets of themed artifacts (e.g., 'Lost and Found' toys in Midgard, 'Faces of Magic' masks in The River Pass, 'Spoils of War' for Carja in Alfheim). Each realm/region has its own set. Collecting and selling complete sets to Brok or Sindri yields Hacksilver and XP.
- collections_bookmarkJötnar Shrines
Location/Use: Ornate wooden shrines depicting stories of the Jötnar (Giants) and their history. There are 11 to find, each revealing a piece of lore when Atreus reads them. Collecting all contributes to a Labor.
- collections_bookmarkLanguage Ciphers (Niflheim & Muspelheim)
Location/Use: Four Niflheim language ciphers and four Muspelheim language ciphers are hidden in purple cipher chests throughout Midgard and other accessible realms. Collecting four of each unlocks travel to the respective optional realms of Niflheim and Muspelheim.
- collections_bookmarkLegendary Chests
Location/Use: Ornate chests containing valuable loot, such as Runic Attacks (Light or Heavy for Axe/Blades), Talismans, rare resources, or Enchantments.
- collections_bookmarkLore Markers & Rune Reads
Location/Use: Stone tablets, runestones, or scrolls containing Norse lore, stories, and historical information. Atreus can read these to Kratos, adding entries to the Codex and providing XP.
- collections_bookmarkNornir Chests (Rune-Locked Chests)
Location/Use: Special chests locked by three Norse runes. To open them, Kratos must find and activate (e.g., hit with axe, ring bells) the corresponding runes in the nearby environment within a time limit or specific order. They contain Idunn Apples (to increase maximum Health) or Horns of Blood Mead (to increase maximum Rage).
- collections_bookmarkOdin's Ravens
Location/Use: Spectral green ravens sent by Odin to spy on the Nine Realms. There are 51 to find and destroy with the Leviathan Axe, scattered across various locations. Destroying them contributes to a Labor and rewards XP.
- collections_bookmarkTreasure Maps & Buried Treasure
Location/Use: Players can find Treasure Maps which are sketches leading to buried treasure (Hacksilver, resources, Enchantments) in a specific location described by the map's riddle or drawing.
- collections_bookmarkValkyrie Helms (after defeating Valkyries)
Location/Use: Defeating each of the eight optional Valkyrie bosses and the Valkyrie Queen yields their helms, which are then placed in the Council of Valkyries chamber.
Top 3 Collectibles:
Ravens: 51 spectral green ravens sent by Odin, hidden throughout the realms, which Kratos must destroy with his axe. 2. Jötnar Shrines: 11 shrines depicting Norse myths related to Giants, providing lore about their history. 3. Nornir Chests: Puzzle chests locked by three runes; solving the puzzle (hitting bells, destroying seals, aligning mechanisms) rewards Idunn Apples (increases max health) or Horns of Blood Mead (increases max rage).
God of War Armor
- shieldAtreus's Tunics/Armor
Focus/Stats: Atreus can also be equipped with different outfits/tunics that provide passive bonuses, such as increasing his arrow damage, improving his revival speed for Kratos, or enhancing his elemental arrow effects. These are also craftable and upgradable.
- shieldAxe Pommels & Blades Grips
Focus/Stats: Attachments for the Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos respectively. These change the appearance of the weapon's handle and provide passive stat boosts or unique combat perks (e.g., chance to trigger elemental explosions, increased stun).
- shieldEnchantments (Socketable Gems)
Focus/Stats: Armor pieces and some Talismans have enchantment sockets. Enchantments provide further stat boosts or unique passive perks when equipped. They come in various rarities and types, allowing for build customization.
- shieldKratos's Armor Sets (Various)
Focus/Stats: Players can craft and upgrade numerous armor sets for Kratos, divided into Chest, Wrist, and Waist pieces. Each set offers different base stats (Strength, Runic, Defense, Vitality, Luck, Cooldown) and unique perks (e.g., increasing elemental damage, reducing stun duration, chance to grant buffs). Armor sets are categorized by rarity and can be upgraded multiple times using Hacksilver and resources. Examples include the 'Traveler Armor Set' (high defense), 'Ancient Armor Set' (elemental resistance), 'Valkyrie Armor Set' (powerful perks, high stats).
- shieldShield Skins
Focus/Stats: Cosmetic variations for Kratos's Guardian Shield. Some were pre-order bonuses or unlocked in New Game Plus (e.g., Exile's Guardian Shield Skin).
- shieldTalismans
Focus/Stats: Equippable items that provide unique active abilities (with cooldowns) or powerful passive perks. Examples include Talisman of Unyielding Fury (grants Spartan Rage burst) or Amulet of Kvasir (slows time on last-second dodges).
God of War Clothing / Appearance
- checkroomAtreus's Tunics
Details: Atreus can be equipped with different tunics that offer various passive bonuses, such as improving his arrow damage, healthstone recovery, or reducing summon cooldowns. These also alter his appearance.
- checkroomDeath's Vow Armor Set (Digital Deluxe)
Details: An exclusive cosmetic armor set for both Kratos and Atreus, included in the Digital Deluxe Edition of the game.
- checkroomKratos's Armor Sets
Details: Players can craft, purchase, and upgrade numerous armor sets for Kratos. These are divided into Chest, Wrist, and Waist pieces. Each set provides different stat distributions (Strength, Runic, Defense, Vitality, Luck, Cooldown) and unique perks. Examples: Traveler Set (tanky), Ancient Set (elemental resistance), Deadly Mist Set (Niflheim rewards), Valkyrie Set (end-game). Armor sets also change Kratos's appearance significantly.
- checkroomNew Game Plus Armor Sets
Details: New Game Plus mode introduces new, more powerful 'Perfect' rarity versions of existing armor sets and some unique NG+ exclusive sets (like the 'Cod of War' armor) that can be crafted using Skap Slag.
God of War Other Features & Info
- labelMultiplayer Modes
God of War (2018) is a strictly single-player narrative-driven experience and does not feature any multiplayer modes.
- labelUser Interface
Features an immersive, minimalist UI with an over-the-shoulder camera. Health and rage meters for Kratos, Atreus's arrow count and summon cooldowns are displayed. A compass aids navigation. Menus for inventory, skills, map, and codex (lore entries, bestiary).
- labelSound and Music
The critically acclaimed original score, composed by Bear McCreary, features powerful orchestral themes, Norse-inspired instrumentation (like the nyckelharpa and hurdy-gurdy), and choir. Sound design is impactful, especially for combat and environmental ambience. Features excellent voice acting, particularly Christopher Judge as Kratos and Sunny Suljic as Atreus.
- labelGraphics and Visuals
Utilizes a proprietary engine by Santa Monica Studio, renowned for its stunning visual fidelity on PS4 and further enhanced for the PC release. Features highly detailed character models, breathtaking Norse-inspired environments, impressive lighting and particle effects, and a seamless 'one-shot' camera presentation with no cuts or loading screens during gameplay.
- labelStory and Setting
Set many years after Kratos's destruction of Olympus, he now lives a secluded life in the harsh Norse realm of Midgard with his son, Atreus. After the death of his wife Faye, their journey to honor her last wish—to scatter her ashes from the highest peak in all Nine Realms—forces Kratos to confront his past, master his rage, and guide Atreus. They encounter figures from Norse mythology like Freya, Baldur, Mimir, and the Huldra Brothers (Brok and Sindri), navigating a world on the cusp of Ragnarök.
- labelMap and Realm Structure
God of War (2018) features a semi-open world design. The primary hub is the Lake of Nine in Midgard, which changes as the world waters recede, revealing new areas. Players travel to several of the Nine Realms of Norse mythology, including Alfheim (realm of the Elves), Helheim (realm of the dead), Muspelheim (fiery realm with combat trials), and Niflheim (a procedurally generated mist-covered realm with challenges). Jötunheim (realm of the Giants) is a key destination. Travel between realms is facilitated by Yggdrasil, the World Tree, via a central travel room.
- labelSkills and Upgrades
Kratos has skill trees for his Leviathan Axe (close and ranged combat), Guardian Shield (defensive and bare-handed combat), and later the Blades of Chaos. Atreus has his own skill tree for the Talon Bow, focusing on different arrow types (Light, Shock) and summons. Experience points (XP) are used to unlock new combat moves, passive abilities, and enhance runic attacks. Weapons and armor can be upgraded using Hacksilver and collected resources at Brok and Sindri's shops. Enchantments socketed into gear provide further stat boosts and perks.
- labelTop 5 Weapons/Tools (Subjective/Iconic)
- 1. Leviathan Axe: Kratos's primary weapon, infused with ice magic, can be thrown and recalled. Features light and heavy runic attacks. 2. Blades of Chaos: Kratos's iconic chained blades from past games, infused with fire magic, unlocked later in the story. Also feature runic attacks. 3. Guardian Shield: A retractable shield used for blocking and parrying, with its own set of combat skills. 4. Atreus's Talon Bow: Atreus provides crucial ranged support with his bow, firing Light Arrows (stun, create light bridges) and Shock Arrows (electric damage, stun). He can also summon spirit animals. 5. Mimir's Head: Serves as a companion, providing lore, context, stories, and hints. Can also be used to activate certain magical elements.
- labelAccessibility Features (PC Port as reference)
The PC port includes features like fully customizable mouse and keyboard bindings, controller support, auto sprint, persistent dot for aiming, toggle options for aim/block, and subtitle/caption customization (size, color, background, speaker names).
- labelTop 3 Gameplay Mechanics
- 1. Leviathan Axe Combat: Kratos's versatile axe can be used for melee combos, precise throws with a magical recall mechanic, and imbued with ice elemental damage and runic attacks. 2. Atreus as a Combat Companion: Atreus actively assists in combat by firing arrows (Light, Shock), choking enemies, distracting them, and using runic summons, upgradable through his own skill tree. 3. Semi-Open World Exploration & Puzzles: Navigating diverse Norse realms, solving environmental puzzles (often involving the Leviathan Axe and Atreus's abilities), and discovering collectibles, side quests ('Favors'), and optional challenging areas like Muspelheim and Niflheim.
God of War Frequently Asked Questions
- help_outline When was God of War (2018) released?God of War was released for PlayStation 4 on April 20, 2018, and for PC (Windows) on January 14, 2022.
- help_outline Is God of War (2018) a reboot or a sequel?It is a soft reboot and a sequel to God of War III. It continues Kratos's story but shifts the setting from Greek to Norse mythology and significantly changes the gameplay and tone.
- help_outline Who is Atreus?Atreus is Kratos's young son and his companion throughout the game. He assists in combat with his bow and arrows, helps solve puzzles by reading runes, and his relationship with Kratos is central to the story.
- help_outline What is the main weapon Kratos uses?Kratos's primary weapon for much of the game is the Leviathan Axe, a magical axe imbued with ice elemental properties that can be thrown and recalled. He later regains his iconic Blades of Chaos, which have fire elemental properties.
- help_outline Is God of War (2018) an open-world game?It features a semi-open world design. While not a fully seamless open world like some RPGs, it has large, interconnected areas and realms (like Midgard's Lake of Nine) that players can explore, with new sections opening up as the story progresses or new abilities are acquired. There are also optional realms like Muspelheim and Niflheim.
- help_outline Does God of War (2018) have multiplayer?No, God of War (2018) is a purely single-player experience and does not have any multiplayer modes.
- help_outline Is there any DLC for God of War (2018)?No story-based DLC expansions were released. However, a significant free post-launch update added a New Game Plus mode and a Photo Mode.