About two years ago, **God of War Ragnarok** launched on PS5 and PS4, becoming one of the most anticipated games globally. Following the massive success of **God of War 2018**, which reintroduced Kratos with a more profound and relatable character arc, expectations were sky-high. Now, the wait is over as the game is finally available on PC, but it didn’t arrive without some controversy.

One of the biggest issues at launch was that players were required to have a PlayStation Network account, even though the game is a single-player story with no online elements. Additionally, it demanded a constant internet connection, which seemed unnecessary for a single-player game. These decisions frustrated many fans. However, the bigger question is whether the game delivers on the technical and gameplay fronts for PC players. Let’s break it down.

Story (No Spoilers)

The story picks up where **God of War 2018** left off, focusing on the evolving relationship between Kratos and his son Atreus, who we now know as Loki. Set three years later, the world is engulfed in the “Fimbulwinter,” signaling the onset of **Ragnarok**, the end of the world. Kratos and Atreus set out on a journey to prevent this impending catastrophe.

Atreus is searching for his true identity and believes finding **Tyr**, the original God of War, could help them stop Ragnarok. Reluctantly, Kratos joins his son on this perilous mission. Along the way, they face powerful Norse gods like Thor, seeking revenge for his sons, and Odin, who attempts to thwart their plans.

The voice acting is phenomenal, with every character bringing depth and personality. Kratos remains stoic yet complex, while Atreus shows significant growth, adding layers to their dynamic. The story explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and identity, delivering a narrative that’s as emotionally resonant as it is epic.

Gameplay

The gameplay in **God of War Ragnarok** is refined and incredibly satisfying. It combines powerful emotional moments, engaging puzzles, and visceral combat with exceptional attention to detail.

The combat system remains a highlight, with Kratos wielding his trusty Leviathan Axe, which excels in both ranged and close-quarters combat. While not drastically different from 2018, it’s as effective and thrilling as ever.

The Blades of Chaos feel more versatile in this installment, allowing for crowd control and more fluid enemy interactions. New abilities like “freezing” the axe for extra power or igniting the blades with fire add strategic layers to combat. The shield also plays a dual role in defense and offense, with customization options that let you tailor it to your playstyle.

Atreus is more than just a sidekick this time. His enhanced abilities and diverse arrow types significantly impact battles, complementing Kratos’ brute strength. The variety in enemies and boss fights, from Norse gods to monstrous creatures, ensures every encounter feels fresh and exhilarating.

Graphics and Performance

The PC version of **God of War Ragnarok** raises the bar with stunning visuals. From detailed environments and lighting to intricate character models, every frame is a masterpiece. Enhanced reflections and shadows elevate the experience further, making it a visual treat.

Performance-wise, the game runs exceptionally well on PC, optimized for both high-end and older hardware. Frame rates were consistent, and no major issues were encountered during testing, even at higher resolutions.

System Specifications

• Graphics Card: RTX 4070 Super

• Processor: Intel Core i5-12400F

• RAM: 16GB DDR5 5200MT/s

Tested at 2K resolution with maximum settings, the game delivered 100-110 FPS without additional enhancements. Using DLSS boosted frames to 140-170 FPS, and with Frame Generation, frames reached an impressive 170-200 FPS.

Final Rating

10/10

The PC version of **God of War Ragnarok** delivers an unparalleled experience with its gripping story, refined gameplay, and outstanding technical performance. Despite initial concerns about its port, the game proves to be a polished and enjoyable experience. If you’re a fan of cinematic storytelling and action-packed gameplay, this is a must-play on PC.