Playing God of War Ragnarok made me realize how PlayStation has a gem that sets it apart from all other gaming platforms. Kratos and the God of War series are true icons of the PlayStation brand, unmatched by any other platform.
The Story
The game starts with a calm scene, the calm before the storm. Kratos and his son Atreus are pursued by Thor, Odin, and Freya due to past events. The story ties deeply into Norse mythology, focusing on the prophesied Ragnarok, an event Kratos desperately wants to avoid.
The story is masterfully directed and layered with complexity. It offers a simple, engaging narrative while including deeper references to Norse mythology for those who want to explore more.
The father-son dynamic between Kratos and Atreus forms the heart of the story. Kratos, as a protective father, struggles to balance guiding Atreus while allowing him the freedom to grow. This emotional conflict makes the story relatable and engaging.
Gameplay
The gameplay is fast-paced and closer to the classic hack-and-slash style of the older trilogy. The expanded skill tree for Kratos, Atreus, and even Freya adds variety. The combat system, featuring the Blades of Chaos, is highly satisfying.
Side quests have increased in number but vary in quality. While some offer exciting exploration, others feel restrictive due to the linear level design.
Enemy variety has greatly improved, with new foes and tactical boss battles in every realm. The game encourages players to study enemies and adapt their strategies.
Graphics and Technical Performance
The game runs smoothly on both PS5 and PS4. On PS5, players can choose between 2K resolution at 60fps or 4K at 30fps. The visuals are stunning, even if not a giant leap from the 2018 game.
Localization
For the first time, the game features full Arabic localization, including voice acting. While the dubbing has minor issues, it’s a huge step forward for Arabic-speaking players.
Final Verdict
9.5/10
God of War Ragnarok is an epic adventure with an emotional story, incredible gameplay, and breathtaking visuals. Despite minor flaws, it’s a must-play for any PlayStation owner.