Highlights
Santa Monica Studio is rumored to be developing DLC for God of War Ragnarok, potentially indicating a new direction for the franchise.
The DLC could center around Atreus' independent exploits, potentially setting the stage for a standalone Atreus game or a fresh mythological setting and characters in the next complete installment of God of War.
The inclusion of DLC in God of War opens up the possibility for further narrative expansions or autonomous add-ons in the future, granting the game the opportunity to fully delve into and exhaust diverse mythologies.
God of War Ragnarok released on PS5 some time ago, with fans eagerly anticipating its eventual release on PC. In the meantime, a New Game Plus update was released in early 2023 to ensure player satisfaction with the current content. The decision to conclude the Norse saga in two games instead of three resulted in a well-rounded package, bringing the heartfelt, family-focused story to a close.
However, the game's story may not be completely finished. A recent rumor suggests that Santa Monica Studio is approximately 60% finished with creating DLC for God of War Ragnarok. While the specifics of this DLC are unclear, it could provide fans with more God of War content sooner than expected. Furthermore, the introduction of Ragnarok's DLC could potentially shape the series' future in a significant way.
Story DLC Could Shed Light On God of War's Plans
While it may come as a surprise, there is a strong justification for God of War Ragnarok to have DLC. The main goal of the game was to wrap up its Norse saga, which it accomplished in a more definitive manner than any previous installment, including the apocalyptic God of War 3. Atreus and Kratos have solidified their familial bonds, Odin's corrupting influence over the Norse pantheon has been overthrown, and Ragnarok has been averted. Kratos has never been more content with himself, his divine status, and his relationships with other gods and people. There is very little left for God of War to explore in its Norse chapter.
However, there is still one aspect that could be further explored - Atreus' own adventures. The postgame of God of War Ragnarok sees Atreus part ways with Kratos in order to search for any surviving members of the Giant species. Any DLC for God of War Ragnarok should delve into Atreus' quest, but the outcome of this journey may shape the future of the franchise. If Atreus reunites with his father by the end, it suggests that the next full God of War title will venture into a new mythology, potentially introducing a completely new set of characters. On the other hand, if Atreus continues his adventures, fans may be treated to a standalone Atreus game, assuming the DLC itself is not a standalone expansion.
God of War Expansions May Become A Regular Sight
That's not to mention the potential for DLC to provide hints about the next God of War title, which many fans speculate could be set in Egypt. The mere existence of DLC may indicate significant changes in the God of War franchise. Story DLC is a new endeavor for God of War, but it offers several advantages moving forward. If the DLC for God of War Ragnarok is well-received, it's likely that fans can expect more story DLC or standalone expansions in the future.
Given the extensive time and resources required to develop a God of War game now, fully exploring new mythologies in a single game should be a top priority. DLC that builds upon the assets and story of a particular installment would be crucial, allowing for the exploration of different settings without the need for multiple games. This approach could establish a healthy pattern of one main game and one expansion to delve into the gods and monsters not covered in the initial release. The potential DLC for God of War Ragnarok will provide insights into its future direction.
God of War Ragnarok is available now exclusively for PS5.