The Unforgettable Battle with Baldur: A God of War Franchise Highlight

Article Key Points

The Baldur fight in God of War (2018) stands out as one of the best in the series, showcasing the game's cinematic flair and dramatic moments.

Encountering Baldur marks a significant shift in the game's identity, as it portrays bosses in a more subtle and down-to-earth manner, defying player expectations.

The battle against Baldur intensifies the suspense by emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Atreus, showcasing Kratos's newfound determination to protect his loved ones and embrace his transformed existence.

The 2018 reboot of God of War is filled with cinematic brilliance and intense moments, reminiscent of other popular Sony games such as The Last of Us. Within the game, there are numerous exceptional battles, touching moments, and astonishing revelations. However, one particular epic encounter between Kratos and Baldur early on in the game truly stands out as one of the series' finest.

In a surprising twist, Kratos has forsaken his homeland of Greece and relocated to an unspecified Scandinavian setting when he makes his return in God of War 2018. He embarks on a new life and forms a new family, only to realize that the tranquility he seeks is not readily available to him. In comes Baldur, the son of Freya and Odin, who becomes a central figure in the story, driving the conflict between these two individuals and their respective allies. With the antagonist's initial appearance, God of War not only captivates with its entertainment value but also establishes its familial themes and unique cinematic style.

Why God of War's Baldur Fight Is Significant

The initial encounter with Baldur occurs in the early stages of the game, following a brief mission involving Atreus that serves both as a tutorial and as an introduction to the overarching storyline. God of War marked a significant departure for the franchise, moving away from its fast-paced, action-oriented roots reminiscent of Devil May Cry, and instead adopting a more deliberate, strategic approach driven by narrative. This early battle serves as a defining moment that showcases the multifaceted nature of this transformation.

Baldur Is a New Kind of God of War Boss

While there may be exceptions, bosses in the older God of War games tended to be grandiose and legendary, often enormous and otherworldly. In the more recent God of War games, however, bosses remain just as menacing, but with a touch of subtlety and realism. Baldur exemplifies this perfectly, with his small frame and calm demeanor, making him appear unassuming for a supremely powerful deity. Yet, he defies initial expectations by sending Kratos soaring into the sky with a single blow and accomplishing extraordinary feats of strength.

By introducing Baldur as the initial Norse god with whom Kratos (and consequently, the player) truly interacts, the game establishes a significant shift in its identity and highlights the immense power of this new mythological pantheon. This not only serves as the pivotal event that sets the plot in motion but also symbolizes the end of the era of colossal God of War adversaries and marks the arrival of a more nuanced and subtle era.

The Baldur Fight Has an Extra Layer of Tension

Kratos and the player are unaware of Baldur's exact intentions at this point in the game. However, it is evident that Baldur poses a significant threat and should be kept away from Atreus. Atreus, who has led a sheltered life and is still very young, must be protected. Kratos recognizes the importance of this and takes precautions to ensure that Baldur does not discover Atreus's hiding place. This intensifies the tension and drama of the fight for players. They are no longer solely concerned with Kratos and their own victory, but also with the safety of Atreus. This element of the encounter reinforces God of War's new direction, as Kratos now fights not for vengeance or glory, but to safeguard his loved ones and his newfound way of life.

Most players of God of War will acknowledge that the initial encounter with Baldur is not only an impressive accomplishment and a thrilling battle, but it also transcends mere entertainment. The fight between Baldur and Kratos serves to establish the franchise's fresh identity, Kratos's growth, and the deep affection he harbors for his son, making it one of the most unforgettable and significant moments in the series.

God of War (2018)

God of War 4, also known as God of War (2018), is the eighth installment in the mainline franchise and serves as a sequel to God of War 3, which was released in 2010. The game tells the story of Kratos, who is now older and has a son, as he battles gods from Norse mythology.

Franchise: God of War

Platform(s): PS4, PC

Release Date: April 20, 2018

Developer(s): Santa Monica Studio

Publisher(s): Sony

Genre(s): Action, Adventure

Engine: Proprietary Engine

ESRB Rating: M for Mature - Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language

Estimated Gameplay Time: 20 Hours

Editor's P/S

The battle with Baldur in God of War (2018) is a truly unforgettable experience. It is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases the game's stunning visuals, epic music, and intense combat. The battle is also significant for its narrative importance, as it sets the tone for the rest of the game and establishes the relationship between Kratos and his son, Atreus.

One of the things that makes the Baldur fight so special is its cinematic flair. The battle takes place in a stunningly beautiful forest, and the camera work is absolutely incredible. The shots are framed perfectly, and the action is captured in a way that is both exciting and awe-inspiring. The music is also top-notch, and it perfectly complements the action on screen.

The combat itself is also incredibly well-done. Kratos and Baldur are both powerful warriors, and their fight is a brutal and intense one. The choreography is excellent, and the animations are smooth and fluid. The battle is also very challenging, and it will test your skills to the limit.

In addition to its cinematic flair and intense combat, the Baldur fight is also significant for its narrative importance. The battle sets the tone for the rest of the game, and it establishes the relationship between Kratos and his son, Atreus. Kratos is a hardened warrior who has lost everything, and he is determined to protect his son from the dangers of the world. Atreus is a young boy who is just beginning to learn about his powers, and he is eager to prove himself to his father. The Baldur fight is a test for both Kratos and Atreus, and it shows how far they have come as a father and son.

Overall, the battle with Baldur in God of War (2018) is a truly unforgettable experience. It is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases the game's stunning visuals, epic music, and intense combat. The battle is also significant for its narrative importance, as it sets the tone for the rest of the game and establishes the relationship between Kratos and his son, Atreus.