The Future of God of War: Unveiling the Magnificent Legacy of 2018 and the Epic Saga of Ragnarok

Sony Santa Monica's God of War (2018) and its sequel, God of War Ragnarok, have left a lasting impression on players for various reasons. In addition to their well-crafted narratives, the games consistently deliver a unified and immersive experience. This cohesiveness is not solely attributed to the writing; rather, it is the result of the one-shot approach to presentation shared by both titles. In God of War Ragnarok, the camera rarely cuts, and in the original 2018 reboot, it never does. While some may argue that introducing stylistic changes can invigorate a series, the unbroken style of God of War has undeniably become an integral part of its identity. Therefore, it is essential for the next game to retain this distinctive feature.

The use of cinematic techniques in gaming is nothing new. As early as 2005, God of War captivated players right from the start with a cinematic sequence depicting Kratos contemplating suicide by leaping from a cliff, accompanied by a powerful score. The original God of War trilogy in particular relied on cinematic camera work to create a sense of grandeur. These games aimed to convey an epic scale and effectively utilized cinematic cutting and presentation techniques borrowed from Hollywood. In contrast, the reboots adopt a more intimate approach. While Kratos and Atreus face off against Norse deities, the heart of the story lies in their relationship. Consequently, the aesthetics of the reboot are appropriately adjusted to reflect this focus on personal connections.

God of War (2018) Borrows From Documentary Cinema

Instead of relying on the conventions of action-packed blockbuster movies, both God of War and God of War Ragnarok draw inspiration from the techniques employed in observational documentaries. Characterized by its simplicity and extended shots, observational documentaries maintain a close proximity to the subject without interference from the creative team. Similarly, God of War immerses players by utilizing a closely positioned camera that never cuts away, resulting in an authentic documentary-like experience. This one-shot style in God of War engenders a genuine connection, making players feel as though they are truly accompanying Kratos on his journey.

The authenticity and presence conveyed in God of War are among its greatest strengths. Players accompany Kratos through both triumphant and challenging moments, experiencing his emotional responses in real time. This unique storytelling style within the franchise creates an unwavering tension. When Kratos and Atreus find themselves at odds, players are forced to endure the discomfort alongside them. Sad or frightening events unfold without respite, playing out continuously without any breaks. This approach to storytelling establishes an intimate connection between players, the game's world, and its characters, and it is likely to be emulated in Amazon's upcoming God of War television adaptation.

God of War Ragnarok Reaches New Extremes

The sequel incorporates more intense action scenes, thanks to the presence of multiple protagonists in God of War Ragnarok. However, it still maintains its documentary-style approach. This consistency creates a sense of unity between the games and enhances the grandeur of the sequel's expanded scope. God of War Ragnarok showcases larger set-pieces while preserving its realistic presentation. As a result, when players witness awe-inspiring or otherworldly moments, they feel even more fantastical. This commitment to the aesthetic grounds the player and magnifies the impact of major events. Throughout both entries, the series continually raises the stakes, and the presentation intensifies this growing tension.

For the next God of War game, it is crucial to either maintain the one-shot style or deviate from it in a significant and meaningful way. God of War Ragnarok successfully addresses many conflicts between Atreus and Kratos that were central to the first two titles. Nonetheless, the series' focus on personal drama remains one of its greatest strengths, and the one-shot style complements it exceptionally well. Even if the sequel takes a radically different direction with Atreus as the primary God of War character, the one-shot style has become firmly ingrained in the franchise's identity. Abandoning it would entail sacrificing a significant part of this identity.

God of War Ragnarok is available now on PS4 and PS5.