Summary
TheGod of Warfranchise has focused the spotlight on Kratos since the genesis of the series, but it looks like the tides may be changing. Kratos' son Atreus parted ways with his father at the end ofRagnarokto go off on his own journey. This has led many to speculate that Atreus may lead his very own game in theGod of Warseries.
Despite being Kratos' son, Atreus is very different from his father. He’s more trusting in some respects, while also being more friendly and approachable than the stoic, icy nature of Kratos. However, one of the biggest differences between the two is that Atreus can shape-shift.IfGod of Warputs Atreus in the starring role, his shape-shifting abilities could be the key to making his fighting mechanics stand on their own compared to Kratos.
Atreus' Powers Could Cause God of War to Step Away From Arsenal-Based Combat
Foregoing Kratos' Reliance on Weapons
Kratos is a tank of strength, but he also relies heavily on his diverse arsenal. From his iconicBlades of Chaosto the Leviathan Axe, he has an impressive number of weapons at his disposal. These varied weapons options are also a brilliant way forGod of Warto diversify combat. Each weapon in Kratos' arsenal provides its own unique use against enemies, but Atreus' diversity could be through his shape-shifting powers.
Atreus' story arc inRagnarokwas far more in-depth than his first appearance in the franchise, and one of the main points of his story was the young demi-god coming into his powers. InRagnarok,Atreus can transform into a bear and a wolf, and it feels as though the series has only scratched the surface with such a fascinating ability.
Expanding on Atreus' Shape-Shifting Powers
Ifthe nextGod of Wargame features Atreus as the lead, it’s inevitable that players will get to experience his transformation powers again. However, the main difference is that since the events ofRagnarok, Atreus has likely gained better control of his powers. This is a goldmine of potential for making an Atreus-ledGod of Warstep out from the shadow of Kratos as the lead. Instead of diversifying combat and overall gameplay with a varied arsenal, Atreus' animal powers could be on full display. His bear form could be used for brute force, the wolf form would be quick and agile, and there could even be animal forms yet to be seen.
A great way to elevate traversal inan AtreusGod of Wargamewould be utilizing a hawk or eagle. Soaring through the skies or dive-bombing enemies from above would be an all-new exploration of whatGod of War’s gameplay can be. Another fascinating angle would be taking the form of smaller animals, like a snake or mouse, to squeeze one’s way through tight cracks and crevices.
An Atreus-Focused Game Needs to Set Itself Apart in a Major Way
If theGod of Warfranchise pivots to focus on Atreus, it would be a controversial move. It’s hard to imagineGod of Warwithout Kratos, so an Atreus game should make bold moves to make it stand on its own while still honoring the essence of the series. Atreus' shape-shifting powers were a fascinating turn for the character, and it deserves to be explored further. Whether that’s through an entire game with Atreus as the lead or a smaller-scale half-sequel, the extent of his powers has yet to be seen.
The future ofGod of Waris a mystery, but the ending ofRagnarokand the events of itsValhallaDLC promise a bright new chapter could be on the way. Only time will tell how far the series will explore Atreus' connection to animals, but it’s a compelling route with tons of potential.
