God of War has been a cornerstone of PlayStation’s exclusive lineup since the PS2 era, known for its brutal combat and larger-than-life storytelling. In the 2018 reboot, Kratos takes a bold step away from his Greek roots, embarking on a deeply personal journey in the Norse realm. This game doesn’t just reinvent the series—it elevates it to new heights, blending action, emotion, and mythology in a way that feels timeless.
A Story of Loss and Growth
The story begins with a somber moment: Kratos and his son, Atreus, mourning the death of Faye, their wife and mother. Their mission is to scatter her ashes from the tallest peak in Jötunheim, a journey that takes them across breathtaking Norse landscapes and into conflicts with gods, monsters, and their own strained relationship.
For the first time, we see Kratos not just as a warrior but as a father struggling to guide his son while wrestling with his violent past. Their dynamic is at the heart of the game, with Atreus’s curiosity and inexperience often clashing with Kratos’s stern, reserved demeanor. Watching their relationship evolve is as captivating as the game’s larger-than-life battles.
Combat That Hits Hard
This shift in tone is mirrored in the gameplay. The hack-and-slash mechanics of previous entries have been replaced with a more tactical, deliberate combat system. The Leviathan Axe, Kratos’s new weapon, is immensely satisfying to wield, offering a mix of heavy and light attacks, ranged throws, and upgradable abilities. The addition of a shield for blocking and parrying, along with a dodge mechanic, introduces a level of strategy reminiscent of Souls-like games.
Atreus plays a key role in combat as well, supporting Kratos with his bow and unique abilities that can be upgraded throughout the game. Together, they make a formidable team. The combat strikes an incredible balance between challenge and satisfaction. Each encounter feels impactful, with a mix of regular enemies and massive, cinematic boss fights that will test your skills. However, some of the tougher late-game battles can feel chaotic, with a bit too much button-mashing required to succeed.
A Visual and Narrative Masterpiece
What sets God of War apart is how it seamlessly blends gameplay with storytelling. The game is presented in a single, uninterrupted shot, drawing you deeper into its world and making every moment feel intimate and immediate.
The visuals are nothing short of stunning, with environments that feel alive and character models so detailed you can see every scar on Kratos’s body. The world feels immersive and rich, filled with lore, secrets, and side activities that enhance the main story without ever feeling overwhelming.
The narrative is equally engaging, weaving themes of loss, redemption, and the bond between father and son into its mythological framework. While the story starts slowly, this deliberate pacing allows the characters to grow and the stakes to build naturally. By the time the credits rolled, I was completely invested in Kratos and Atreus’s journey, eagerly anticipating what the next chapter in their saga might bring.
Rewarding RPG Progression
The RPG elements add another layer of depth. As you explore the richly detailed world, you’ll collect resources to craft and upgrade armor, enhance the Leviathan Axe, and unlock new abilities through skill trees. These mechanics feel intuitive and rewarding, offering meaningful progression without bogging down the pacing.
Atreus also benefits from these upgrades, with his skill tree and gear making him a valuable companion in both combat and exploration. The system strikes a perfect balance—never overly complex but still satisfying for players who love customization.
Final Thoughts
God of War 2018 is a masterclass in game design, combining stunning visuals, a gripping narrative, and deeply satisfying gameplay into one unforgettable package. While it has a few minor flaws—such as the slow start and occasional button-mashing—it remains one of the finest games I’ve ever played. Even in 2025, it’s a shining example of what the medium can achieve.
Score: 4.5/5
Pros:
- Gripping, emotional story
- Satisfying and tactical combat
- Rewarding RPG progression
- Stunning visuals and immersive world
Cons:
- Slow start to the story
- Button-mashing in late-game combat
MaximusGames99 