Summary
God of War Ragnarokbrought the titular battle to life in thrilling fashion as Kratos and his allies united together in order to stop Odin and his reign. The franchise’s Norse saga may have felt short-lived overall, but players got a great surprise last year that brought an all-new chapter toGod of War Ragnarok. Developer Santa Monica Studio surprised many with a free DLC forRagnarokin the form ofValhalla, a rogue-like romp through the Norse realm.
The prospect of getting a free DLC was exciting enough, butValhallaadded some important moments to Kratos' story as well. At the end ofRagnarok, Kratos and Atreus parted ways, with the latter beginning his search for the remaining Giants. Kratos stayed put in the Norse realm, and his time there wasbrought to an apex with Tyrputting him through various trials to both prove his worth as a god and help Kratos accept himself once and for all. Although this expansion brought some much-needed peace to Kratos, it also sets a troubling precedent for the franchise’s future and its possible inability to let go of the character.
The God of War Franchise May Not Be Able to Move On From Kratos
Atreus' Solo Venture Might Not Be Solo After All
After the bittersweet goodbye shared between Kratos and Atreus at the end ofRagnarok, a prevailing theory suggests that the franchise is setting up Atreus to lead his own game.Focusing on Atreus would be a bold movefor the series, but it also feels inevitable. Even if an Atreus-focused chapter is simply a half-sequel,Valhallamade it clear that the franchise as a whole may struggle to keep Kratos out of the story.
Of course, a possibleGod of Wargame starring Atreus and leaving Kratos out of the narrative would be incredibly controversial. Atreus is a compelling character, but worries thathe isn’t yet ready to take up Kratos' mantleare valid. However, if the ending ofRagnarokwants to feel as rewarding as possible, seeing Atreus actively being on his own without Kratos' presence being part of the story is the best way to further explore the character.Ragnarokoffered a glimpse into what a solo game as Atreus could be like, thanks to the double-protagonist approach, but Kratos still played a major role, even when he wasn’t seen.
If rumors of a solo Atreus game happen to be true, it would be intriguing to see how the character handles trials completely on his own instead of having influence from his father. There are some who areskeptical of Atreus' ability to be a strong protagonist, but a full game or half-sequel is the best way to prove that the character is worthy of taking the spotlight.
God of War Branching Out Into Unknown Territory
Finally Cutting the Kratos Cord
AGod of Wargame solely starring Atreus doesn’t mean that Kratos has to be gone for good, but it would be interesting to see if the franchise could manage without him.The future ofGod of Waris in a tricky spot with where its story should go, but broadening the definition of what the franchise is about could really breathe some exciting life into the series. Kratos has led the franchise for nearly two decades now, and as the character gets older, he simply may need to retire at some point.
AlthoughValhallabrought a great storyset in the Norse erato life, Kratos' arc in the expansion felt like a great way to begin the character’s send-off. However, if Kratos continues to appear in various games, especially Atreus' rumored lead spin-off, then it could ultimately keep the finale ofValhallafrom feeling as meaningful over time.
God of War Ragnarok
WHERE TO PLAY
Embark on an epic and heartfelt journey as Kratos and Atreus struggle with holding on and letting goFrom Santa Monica Studio comes the sequel to the critically acclaimed God of War (2018). Fimbulwinter is well underway. Kratos and Atreus must journey to each of the Nine Realms in search of answers as Asgardian forces prepare for a prophesied battle that will end the world. Along the way they will explore stunning, mythical landscapes, and face fearsome enemies in the form of Norse gods and monsters. The threat of Ragnarök grows ever closer. Kratos and Atreus must choose between their own safety and the safety of the realms.
