God of War Ragnarök is an action-adventure game developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Released in 2022, it is the direct sequel to the critically acclaimed 2018 game God of War. Set in the world of Norse mythology, Ragnarök continues the story of Kratos, a former Greek god, and his son Atreus, as they navigate the apocalyptic events of the prophesied Ragnarök—a catastrophic end of the world.
In God of War Ragnarök, Kratos and Atreus face new threats, deep emotional conflicts, and complex choices as they are drawn into a conflict that will shape the future of the worlds. The game builds on the narrative, combat, and exploration systems of the previous title, offering an expanded world, advanced mechanics, and a deep, emotionally driven story.
Set several years after the events of God of War (2018), Ragnarök explores the consequences of Kratos' actions in the previous game, particularly his role in the death of Baldur and the tension between the Aesir and Vanir gods. The game primarily takes place during Fimbulwinter, a long, harsh winter that signals the approach of Ragnarök, the final battle between the gods and the forces of chaos.
Kratos and Atreus (now older and more independent) find themselves at the center of a larger cosmic conflict. Atreus continues to struggle to uncover his true identity as Loki, the trickster god, and his role in the events of Ragnarök. Meanwhile, Kratos is determined to protect his son from the brutal legacy of his past and prevent further conflict, but his efforts defy fate and the forces of destiny.
The story takes players on a journey across the nine realms of Norse mythology, including new locations like Vanaheim, Svartalfheim, and Asgard, where they encounter familiar gods like Odin and Thor, as well as new allies and adversaries. Key elements of the story are the father-son relationship, Kratos’ inner battle with his violent past, and Atreus’ search for answers about his destiny.
As with the previous game, the world of Ragnarok is filled with elements of lore and story that can be discovered through exploration. The environments themselves tell stories, whether through ruins, monuments, or hidden artifacts that provide context for the information.
Characters from the previous game, such as Mimir, Freya, Brok, and Sindri, return with their own stories, adding to the rich emotional narrative and giving players more insight into their struggles and motivations.
God of War Ragnarök builds on the fluid and brutal combat system introduced in the 2018 title. The game features expanded combat mechanics and new weapons and abilities that give players more freedom and variety in their approach to battle.
