Chronologically, the God of War franchise is unlike anything seen before when it comes to melding fiction and history. Originally taking place during the Greek Empire before moving to the age of Vikings, God of War uses the backdrop of mythology to push the limits of what was possible and how the Gods could've affected it. But while following Kratos' story, what is the best spot to begin playing?

This article will go into the chronological order needed to get the full story of God of War. Because the game isn't parallel to any realistic timeframe, the order is instead in relation to some of the biggest entries in the series set in the Greek and Viking ages. That said, by following the order, players will be able to experience the full and tragic story of Kratos and his future family leading up to God of War: Ragnarök.

Updated on March 5, 2023: After nearly two decades from its first release, the God of War series remains a tentpole of the gaming industry. This list has been updated with even more information about one of gamers' favorite franchise, and to bring the publication up to CBR's most recent editorial standards.

1 Ascension Is Set 10 Years Before God Of War

God of War: Ascension is Kratos' first step on his path to revenge. Only six months after his master, Ares, coerces Kratos to kill his wife and daughter, the soldier vows to never serve the God of War again. Enraged at his choice, Ascension chronicles Kratos' battles against the Furies sent to capture him. However, by the end of his quest, he is able to sever his ties with Ares and begin a new journey.

2 Chains Of Olympus Details Kratos' Service To Olympus

In the decade that he spent serving the Gods, Chains of Olympus follows Kratos as he is dispatched to fight against the Persian army in the city of Attica. However, his path eventually leads him to the Underworld with the chance to rejoin his daughter on the Elysian Fields. But in choosing happiness, he realizes that he must serve a greater purpose and saves the world while earning the title Ghost of Sparta.

3 God Of War Actually Falls Third In The Timeline

God of War is the title that kicks off the franchise and introduces players to Kratos. Throughout the game, Kratos is seen aiding the Goddess Athena in defeating his master, Ares, and absolving himself of the nightmares of his past crimes. However, the game soon reveals that the Gods play games of their own and manipulate Kratos. Although he gets his new Blades of Athena and becomes the God of War, his story is just beginning.

4 Ghost Of Sparta Explores Kratos' Time As God Of War

Unlike other entries, Ghost of Sparta is more of an introspective look at Kratos' past. Introducing his mother Callisto and brother, Deimos, the title also chronicles how Atlantis fell to the seas. In addition, the story features revelations about Kratos' past as he nestles comfortably into his title of God of War. But most importantly, Ghost of Sparta also confirms that Athena is Kratos' sibling.

5 In Mobile Game God Of War: Betrayal, Kratos Faces Punishment

Although only a mobile game, God of War: Betrayal, serves as the first time, as a God, Kratos has overstepped his title. The story is brief, as Kratos leads his armies and hunts down a would-be assassin. Asked to stop the senseless bloodshed by Zeus, Kratos instead retaliates and kills the messenger, Hermes' son, Ceryx. As a result, Zeus believes Kratos must be punished for his crimes.

6 God of War II Takes Place 13 Years After The Original

God of War II marks the moment that Zeus betrays Kratos and ultimately sends the God of War on a journey to save his past self and stop the King of the Gods. But in doing so, he starts events that can no longer be settled quietly. Not only does he strike a deal with the Titans and declare war on Olympus, but God of War II also sees the death of Athena and officially confirms that Zeus is Kratos' father.

7 God of War III Immediately Follows God of War II

The culmination of everything that has come before, God of War III, starts with Kratos' assault on the Gods with the help of the Titans. However, after killing some of the most famous Greek Gods, he is dealt even more betrayal from the Titans before exacting revenge on them and his father, Zeus. Now, with the world in chaos, Kratos gets the justice he desires and forgives himself before embarking on a new path.

8 A Call From The Wilds Is A Prelude To God Of War (2018)

A Call from the Wilds is a Facebook Messenger prequel to God of War (2018) that features Kratos' son, Atreus, as he embarks on his first journey. The story is text-based and follows player choices but introduces fans to a new setting. However, the story also teases the dynamic between father and son and the tension it comes with. Their dynamic is later explored in detail in God of War (2018).

9 God Of War (2018) Is A Father/Son Journey

Since God of War III, Kratos found a new home, taking a new wife and having a son, Atreus. But following his wife's death, the two set out to spread her ashes over the highest peak of her home. Their journey puts them on a collision course with Norse Gods and strengthens the bond between father and son. The story tones down the chaotic action and puts Kratos in a story that tests him in new ways.

10 God of War: Ragnarök Follows Kratos Through The Nine Realms

With Fimbulwinter warning that Ragnarök is fast approaching, Kratos and Atreus will face new and harrowing adventures through the nine realms. However, having slain Thor's brothers and Baldur in the previous entry, the father and son duo face the wrath of the God of Thunder and the witch Freya. Ultimately, God of War: Ragnarök looks to test the limits of the two heroes as the end of the world once again comes calling.