God of War changed dramatically in 2018, swapping ancient Greece, fixed cameras and Kratos’ war against Olympus for the Nine Realms and fatherhood. Also, absolutely leathering people with an axe. But where does the nu-God stuff fit in the timeline?
The Greek and Norse games share the same continuity, and Kratos is the same character throughout, though not really the same person. The 2018 game begins a new saga, but his earlier actions remain part of his history and shape who he is.
Is God of War (2018) a Reboot?
Nope. It’s a continuation with a new setting and gameplay style. Just think of it as God of War 4 and then Ragnarok as God of War 5, if that makes it easier. After the Greek saga, Kratos settles in Midgard, marries Faye and raises their son, Atreus.
Without getting into spoilers, his past matters, particularly his reluctance to discuss his identity and his fear that Atreus will repeat his mistakes.
Which Games Make Up the Greek Saga?
The central storyline is the original trilogy:
- God of War
- God of War II
- God of War III
Several other games expand Kratos’ history and are all canon:
- Sons of Sparta follows the young Kratos and Deimos during their Spartan training.
- Ascension takes place before the original God of War. This one’s still stuck on PS3.
- Chains of Olympus follows Kratos during his service to the Olympian gods.
- Ghost of Sparta takes place between God of War and God of War II.
The trilogy covers his central conflict with Olympus; the other games provide additional background and characters, including Kratos’ oft-forgotten brother.
Do You Need to Play the Greek Games First?
No. God of War (2018) introduces its immediate story without requiring you to finish the older games.
However, the Greek trilogy gives more weight to Kratos’ attempts to control his anger and become a better father. Play it, or watch a recap, if you want that context. The prequels aren’t essential preparation as such, but they give such unique character insight that there are moments in 2018 that just won’t land as well without some knowledge of the originals. All we’ll say is: floorboards.
What Order Should You Play the Norse Games In?
Follow this order:
- God of War — 2018
- God of War Ragnarök — 2022
- God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla — 2023 DLC
Ragnarök directly continues the 2018 story. Valhalla is a free roguelike epilogue that also explores Kratos’ Greek past, so finish Ragnarök before starting it to avoid spoilers.
Where Does God of War Laufey Fit?
Laufey follows Faye after her death, beginning alongside Kratos and Atreus’ journey in God of War (2018). Her adventure takes place in the Everywhen, an afterlife where gods from different mythologies compete for power.
It’s scheduled for release on 16 February 2027 on PS5. We’d recommend playing the 2018 game first for the family’s background and also so you can do that Leo pointing meme every time Kratos pops up.
Are the Greek Games Being Remade?
Yes. PlayStation announced a remake of the original Greek trilogy in February 2026. It is in early development, with no announced release date.
God of War III Remastered is a separate, existing enhanced release of the third game that doesn’t really add anything, just shinier shinies.
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