Mythology at Its Zenith: God of War Ragnarök Review

Following 2018's masterful reinvention of Kratos, God of War Ragnarök carried the enormous burden of wrapping up the entire Norse saga in a single follow-up. Santa Monica Studio delivered an expansive, emotionally devastating conclusion that expands on every mechanical and narrative strength of its predecessor.

Fatherhood and Fate

At the core of Ragnarök is the strained relationship between an aging father terrified of losing his son, and a teenage god (Loki) desperately trying to carve out his own identity without triggering the end of the world. Christopher Judge and Sunny Suljic deliver career-defining performances, complemented by Richard Schiff's masterfully manipulative Odin and Ryan Hurst's tragic, grief-stricken Thor.

The narrative shifts perspectives, allowing players to directly command Atreus equipped with his rapid bow combat and beastly transformations, providing a refreshing mechanical contrast to Kratos's raw, bone-crushing strength.

Figure: Kratos and Atreus preparing for the impending prophesied twilight of the gods.

Triple-Armament Combat Mastery

Switching on the fly between the frost-infused Leviathan Axe, the fiery sweeping Blades of Chaos, and the newly forged Draupnir Spear creates a rhythm of sheer kinetic power. The Draupnir Spear in particular introduces tactical depth: pin enemies from afar with infinite spears before triggering a simultaneous concussive sonic detonation.

Exploring all Nine Realms—from the lush jungles of Vanaheim to the burning forges of Svartalfheim—rewards players with endgame challenges like the Berserker Gravestones and Gná, Queen of the Valkyries, that will test the most hardened warriors.

Official State of Play Trailer