The Game-Changing Element that will Shape the Future of God of War Franchise
God of War Ragnarok takes the franchise to new heights with its groundbreaking side quest expansion, setting a trailblazing path for future games in the series
Highlights
God of War Ragnarok's side quests, known as Favors, have surpassed previous installments with over 40 quests and offer a sense of fulfillment outside of the main story.
In Ragnarok, the side quests offer players grand adventures in vast territories across different realms. Completing these quests brings exciting rewards, like the powerful Berserker Armor. The team at Santa Monica Studio skillfully integrates elements of the game's storyline and character lore into the side quests, enhancing the overall narrative of the game and providing insights into the lives of non-player characters (NPCs).
Few gaming franchises can rival the level of acclaim and reverence that God of War holds in the gaming world. Since its inception, Kratos, the protagonist, has embarked on a path of destruction and redemption throughout ancient mythologies. Each new installment in the series from Santa Monica Studio has brought forth artful tweaks to its mechanics and gameplay enhancements, solidifying its position at the pinnacle of gaming excellence. Almost a year has passed since the release of God of War Ragnarok, a captivating journey through the Nine Realms with Atreus as a central figure. This latest installment not only continues the epic saga but also emphasizes the significance of side quests for the franchise's future.
The Santa Monica team faced a daunting challenge in surpassing the success of the 2018 God of War. However, they rose to the occasion and delivered a masterful game. Breaking away from tradition, Atreus accompanies his father on a journey to scatter his mother's ashes in Jotunheim. Along the way, Atreus provides invaluable assistance to Kratos. This installment introduces a vast open world, a first for the God of War games, complete with various features including side quests known as Favors. These side quests have been warmly received by players as they venture through the realms in both God of War 2018 and God of War Ragnarok.
Ragnarok's Side Quest Expansion is a Trailblazer for Future Games
Santa Monica has significantly increased the number of Favors available to Kratos and Atreus in God of War Ragnarok, with over 40 quests featured in the latest installment. However, the improvement in side quests goes beyond quantity. Fans have expressed a sense of satisfaction when exploring these quests, as they offer a break from the main story's conventional pressures. While the quests in God of War 2018 were not necessarily bad, some felt that they lacked substance from a lore perspective. There were a few exceptions, such as the engaging and amusing Family Business quest that involved intricate puzzles and humorous dialogue.
Unlike many modern action games, the side quests in God of War Ragnarok do not feel like mere fillers. Instead, they take players on epic journeys across vast areas. Some of these quests even span multiple realms, requiring a comprehensive and immersive process to complete. However, the rewards are well worth the effort in most cases. Take the Fit for a King quest, for example, which involves a challenging treasure hunt to locate Berserk Gravestones and defeat the corresponding Berserker Souls. While this task may seem daunting, the rewards, such as the coveted Berserker Armor set, provide a thrilling and satisfying payoff.
Some side quests in God of War Ragnarok offer more rewarding experiences than others, with the Weight of Chains quest standing out. The game cleverly incorporates elements of the story and character lore into these quests, enhancing the overall narrative. The Weight of Chains, for example, provides players with a deeper understanding of Mimir's past. This creative approach to side quests should be continued in future God of War installments. Lore development through quests is a common feature in RPGs, but Ragnarok goes above and beyond by delving into the lives of NPCs. The game's exploration of different areas and the fleshing out of seemingly random character backstories have been highly praised, contributing to its reputation as one of the best games of 2022. The impact of side quests in shaping the game's experience cannot be underestimated going forward.
