God of War (2018): The Review

God of War (2016): The Review

Score: 9 out of 10

Overview: "God of War (2018) reinvents the legendary series, trading its chaotic, hack-and-slash roots for a more thoughtful, emotionally driven action-adventure. Set in the richly detailed Norse mythology, it tells a deeply personal story of Kratos and his son Atreus, balancing intense combat with moments of quiet reflection. With its polished gameplay, breathtaking visuals, and a resonant narrative, the game carves out a bold new identity while respecting its iconic legacy. A few pacing issues and minor design choices hold it back from perfection, but it remains a masterclass in reimagining a beloved franchise".

The Positives

• At its core, God of War is a tale of fatherhood, grief, and growth. Kratos and Atreus’ journey is emotionally gripping, filled with poignant moments and a relationship that evolves meaningfully throughout the game;
• The game’s world is a stunning reimagining of Norse mythology, with awe-inspiring landscapes, intricately designed characters, and cinematic presentation. From snowy mountain peaks to shadowy realms, every area is meticulously crafted;
• The Leviathan Axe introduces a satisfying, weighty combat mechanic that feels distinct from Kratos’ past arsenal. The game strikes a balance between visceral action and strategic depth, with a variety of abilities, runes, and upgrades to keep encounters engaging;
• Kratos is no longer the rage-driven Spartan of the past. His character is layered, with his reserved demeanor hiding a complex history. Atreus’ development from a naive child to a capable partner adds a compelling dynamic to the story;
• The semi-open world structure encourages exploration, with side quests and hidden secrets adding depth to the experience. The Lake of Nine serves as a central hub, gradually revealing more as the story unfolds;
• The lack of traditional cuts creates an immersive, cinematic feel, making every moment—whether in combat or during emotional conversations—more impactful;
• Characters like Mimir, Freya, and Baldur leave lasting impressions, each bringing unique perspectives and motivations to the story. The antagonists, in particular, are complex and multifaceted, elevating the stakes.

The Negatives

• The game’s slower, narrative-heavy sections can sometimes disrupt the momentum, especially for players eager to dive back into combat or exploration;
• While combat is highly polished, the enemy roster feels somewhat repetitive, with certain types recycled across different encounters. More distinct enemy designs would have added diversity;
• Though well-designed, some environmental puzzles can feel like they overstay their welcome, interrupting the flow of the adventure;
• The late-game introduction of faster travel options feels underwhelming, as much of the exploration-heavy gameplay benefits from it earlier in the journey.

The Experience

God of War (2018) is a triumphant reimagining of the franchise that balances its brutal action with emotional depth and stunning world-building. Kratos’ journey with Atreus feels intimate yet grand, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonates on a personal and mythical level. The combat is thrilling, the world is immersive, and the narrative hits all the right notes.
While some pacing issues and minor design choices slightly detract from the experience, they do little to overshadow what God of War achieves. It’s a game that redefines what a sequel can be, standing as a testament to the power of reinvention. For fans and newcomers alike, it’s a journey that demands to be experienced.