This guide explores the optimal way to experience the God of War series, a saga spanning Greek and Norse mythology. Deciding where to begin can be daunting, given the numerous titles. This guide offers several approaches to ensure a fulfilling journey.

God of War Games: The Essentials

While ten games exist, only eight are crucial for a complete narrative experience. God of War: Betrayal (mobile) and God of War: A Call from the Wilds (Facebook) can be safely omitted. The core eight are:

1. God of War 1
2. God of War 2
3. God of War 3
4. God of War: Chains of Olympus
5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
6. God of War: Ascension
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök

Popular Playthrough Orders

Two primary approaches exist: release order and chronological order.

Release Order: This follows the games' original release dates, offering a historical perspective on the series' evolution. However, note that some prequels (like Chains of Olympus and Ghost of Sparta) may not match the polish of the main trilogy.

1. God of War 1 (2005)
2. God of War 2 (2007)
3. God of War: Chains of Olympus (2008)
4. God of War 3 (2010)
5. God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010)
6. God of War: Ascension (2013)
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök (2022)
9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode (2023)

Chronological Order: This prioritizes narrative flow, starting with the earliest events in Kratos' life. Be aware of potential inconsistencies in graphics and gameplay across titles. The starting game is often considered the weakest.

1. God of War: Ascension
2. God of War: Chains of Olympus
3. God of War 1
4. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
5. God of War 2
6. God of War 3
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök
9. God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla (Free DLC)

Recommended Play Order

This order balances narrative coherence and gameplay experience, minimizing potential frustration for newcomers.

1. God of War 1
2. God of War: Chains of Olympus
3. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
4. God of War 2
5. God of War 3
6. God of War: Ascension
7. God of War (2018)
8. God of War Ragnarök
9. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode

Note: Ascension is often considered the weakest entry. Consider watching a summary if you find it too challenging.

Alternate Play Order: Norse Saga First

This unconventional approach prioritizes the improved gameplay and visuals of the Norse Saga, introducing players to the series with a more modern experience. It sacrifices chronological order but offers a compelling alternative.

1. God of War (2018)
2. God of War Ragnarök
3. God of War Ragnarök Valhalla Mode
4. God of War: Ascension
5. God of War: Chains of Olympus
6. God of War 1
7. God of War: Ghost of Sparta
8. God of War 2
9. God of War 3

Ultimately, the "best" order depends on individual preferences. This guide provides options to cater to various play styles and priorities.