The 2018 release of God of War and its sequel, God of War Ragnarok, set new standards for immersive, narrative-driven action-adventure games. These titles have raised expectations so high that comparing any game to them might lead to inevitable disappointment. However, there are several games that can satisfy fans of the series by sharing similar design and gameplay elements, even if they don't surpass the benchmarks set by Sony Santa Monica Studio.
As we eagerly await more news about the future adventures of Kratos and Atreus, here are seven games that God of War enthusiasts might enjoy. Whether you're drawn to the series for its intense third-person combat, richly designed worlds, compelling narratives, or its deep dive into Norse mythology, these games offer something for every God of War fan.
For more from the God of War universe, be sure to check out the 2023 God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla DLC.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Image credit: Ninja Theory
Developer: Ninja Theory | Publisher: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 8, 2017 | Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC | Review: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice review
For fans of God of War’s combat, Norse setting/mythological exploration, and/or story.
Like Kratos in God of War (2018), Senua's journey is driven by the loss of a loved one, set against the backdrop of a richly detailed Norse world. Her travels take her through Ninja Theory's rendition of Helheim, a familiar realm to God of War players, where she encounters characters like Garmr and Surtr. Just like Kratos, Senua is accompanied by a talking head that adds depth to her narrative. The game's combat mirrors God of War's visceral third-person style and employs a continuous, one-shot camera technique that enhances immersion. Both games boast stellar performances, with Melina Juergens (Senua) and Christopher Judge (Kratos) winning Best Performance at The Game Awards in 2017 and 2022, respectively. For more from this series, don't miss Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2.
The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2
Image credit: Sony
Developer: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony | Release Date: Remastered Part 1: September 2, 2022; Part 2: June 19, 2020 | Platforms: Part 2: PS5, PS4; Part 1: PS5, PS4, PS3, PC | Review: IGN's The Last of Us Part 1 review and The Last of Us Part 2 review
For fans of God of War’s story, immersive world, and/or cinematic qualities.
While The Last of Us differs from God of War in setting and gameplay, both are masterfully crafted, story-rich, technically impressive third-person action-adventure games from Sony. Both series feature narratives driven by complex characters and their relationships. Fans of Kratos and Atreus's dynamic will appreciate the similar parent-child bond between Joel and Ellie, navigating a dangerous world together.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release Date: November 10, 2020 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4/5, Xbox One, PC, Stadia, Luna | Review: IGN’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla review
For fans of God of War’s Norse setting/mythological exploration, combat, and/or RPG mechanics.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla transports players to Northern Europe, steeped in Norse mythology, featuring familiar deities like Odin, Loki, Thor, and Freya/Freyja. Its melee combat will appeal to God of War fans, while its extensive RPG elements, including skill trees, loot, side activities, and upgradable armor, offer a deeper experience.
For more games like Assassin's Creed, check out our recommendations if you enjoyed Valhalla.
Jotun
Image credit: Thunder Lotus Games
Developer: Thunder Lotus Games | Publisher: Thunder Lotus Games | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Wii U, PC, Mac, Linus, Stadia | Review: IGN’s Jotun review
For fans of God of War’s Norse mythology and/or boss fights.
Jotun presents a visually distinct take on Norse mythology with hand-drawn art, featuring characters like Jormungar and Thor. While slower-paced and focused on exploration and puzzles, it offers intense boss battles against Norse giants, appealing to God of War fans.
Rise of the Tomb Raider
Image credit: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios
Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Publisher: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios | Release Date: November 10, 2015 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, Mac | Review: IGN’s Rise of the Tomb Raider review
For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design.
Rise of the Tomb Raider shares God of War's semi-open-world structure, featuring Metroidvania-like areas that expand as you progress. Its third-person perspective, combat, and snowy settings will feel familiar to God of War players, as will its character-driven narrative.
Explore our guide to playing the Tomb Raider games in order.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order & Survivor
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: Fallen Order: November 15, 2019; Survivor: April 28, 2023 | Platforms: Survivor: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC; Fallen Order: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Review: IGN’s Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order review and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor review
For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design and/or combat.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Survivor share God of War's semi-open-world design, with explorable hubs and areas locked by progression abilities. Fans will also appreciate the satisfying melee combat and challenging boss fights. Both series emphasize engaging gameplay within immersive worlds, driven by exploration and compelling stories. This similarity is partly due to Stig Asmussen, who directed God of War 3 and later directed both Star Wars Jedi games.
Discover our list of the best Star Wars games of all time.
The Walking Dead: Season 1
Developer: Telltale Games | Publisher: Telltale Games | Release Date: April 24, 2012 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Mobile | Review: IGN's The Walking Dead: The Game review
For fans of God of War’s story.
Telltale’s The Walking Dead focuses on narrative and choice, offering a different gameplay experience from God of War. However, its emotional storytelling and character development resonate similarly. Over five episodes, the first season tells a poignant tale of redemption and protection, mirroring the father-son dynamic of Kratos and Atreus with Lee and Clem.
If you're new to the God of War series, explore our guide on the series' chronology to find the best way to play through the games in order. And, for a comprehensive look at the series, check out every IGN God of War review.
Every God of War Review
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