God of War Ragnarok: Unleash Your Parenting Potential with 'Be Better'
God of War Ragnarok's powerful emphasis on personal growth and parenthood shines through as Kratos and Thor strive to become better individuals for the sake of their children, delivering an inspiring message for all parents to reflect upon
Highlights
The story of God of War Ragnarok revolves around the theme of trying to be a better person for the sake of one's child, reflecting the protagonist Kratos' personal growth.
Kratos, the protagonist of the game, demonstrates notable growth in his character, transitioning from a wrathful warrior to a more admirable figure for his son's sake. His main motivation is to shield his son from the same traumatic experiences he himself endured.
Similar to Kratos, Thor undergoes a parallel transformation, initially embodying harmful traits associated with toxic masculinity. However, following the loss of loved ones, he endeavors to improve himself and become a more involved father to his surviving daughter. This change is influenced by his daughter's encouragement.
God of War Ragnarok was released worldwide for the PS5 last year, receiving critical acclaim and serving as a satisfying conclusion to the storyline introduced in the 2018 game. The narrative of God of War Ragnarok primarily revolves around a central theme.
The earlier installments of the franchise established that the protagonist was far from a virtuous character. Kratos, the Spartan warrior, was arguably the true antagonist in the God of War games, with his ingrained destructive tendencies. However, in both God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarok, he demonstrates a persistent effort to transform into a better person, driven by his paternal responsibilities. This quest for personal growth is something that all parents should aspire to.
How Kratos Tries To Be Better For His Son
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In God of War (2018), it becomes evident that Kratos has undergone a significant transformation since the events of God of War 3. The once wrathful Ghost of Sparta has changed his demeanor in the Greece-based games. However, it is vital to note that he still struggles with unresolved anger, particularly when dealing with his son's impulsive behavior. As a single father, Kratos was unprepared to raise an 11-year-old and is determined to suppress his anger to become a better role model for Atreus and avoid repeating past mistakes.
This transformative journey continues in God of War Ragnarok, with Kratos further evolving both in his actions and dialogue. The Ghost of Sparta actively avoids involving himself in a conflict with Asgard. He urges those around him to do the same, as part of his commitment to being a better role model for his son and protecting him from the same tragedies he endured. It becomes apparent that Kratos is not alone in his pursuit.
Thor Attempting to Be Better For Thrud In God Of War Ragnarok
Thor and Kratos, characters from the God of War games, share similar stories. Both initially embody volatile and hyper-masculine personas, carrying out the orders of their toxic fathers. However, a significant event involving the loss of a family member changes their perspectives. In Thor's case, the death of his sons Magni and Modi, partly caused by him, creates tension in his relationship with his wife Sif and motivates him to become a better father to their remaining daughter.
In God of War Ragnarok, Thrud, differing from her Norse Mythology counterpart, offers valuable insights into Thor's role as a father. She acknowledges his past behavior while also supporting her own training and aspirations to become a Valkyrie. This leads to conflict between Thor and Sif, as she opposes the idea of Thrud serving Odin. Similar to Kratos, Thor focuses on improving his parenting skills towards his surviving child. Eventually, during the game, a moment of understanding between the two characters prompts Thor to confront Odin and assert himself.
The future direction of the franchise remains uncertain. While some characters in God of War Ragnarok achieved happy endings, others had ambiguous outcomes. Suggestions have been made to center the franchise around Atreus, but Santa Monica Studio's plans are currently unknown. Nonetheless, the sequel effectively communicates a valuable parenting lesson with its "Be Better" theme. God of War: Ragnarok is currently accessible for both PS4 and PS5.
