It has been two decades since God of War burst onto the scene, introducing gamers to Kratos, an unforgettable embodiment of the edgelord archetype of the 2000s. The title’s blood-soaked quest for revenge against the Greek pantheon carved its place in gaming history, drawing inspiration from legendary action-adventure titles like Onimusha and Devil May Cry. The result was a game steeped in gleeful violence and a somewhat cringe-worthy narrative that captivated players.

Developed by Santa Monica Studio, the franchise has expanded into a juggernaut of ten games, available across a range of platforms—from consoles to mobile devices—boasting over 66 million copies sold by November 2023. This staggering success cements God of War as one of PlayStation’s most lucrative franchises.

The early installments of the series flirted with a somewhat immature storytelling style and often relied on crude depictions of characters. Yet, a remarkable transformation has unfolded in recent years. The releases of God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarök (2022) reveal a more mature Kratos, worn down by life’s burdens and wrestling with the responsibilities of fatherhood. While these newer games preserve elements of the visceral violence fans expect, they also align more closely with cinematic storytelling, offering nuanced narratives filled with emotional depth—a stark contrast to the earlier games.

Recall, for instance, the dismal arc of Kratos. Initially introduced in 2005’s God of War, he was a valiant Spartan warrior ultimately manipulated by Ares, the God of War, into committing heinous acts, including the murder of his own family. Kratos’ atonement is intertwined with a curse that leaves him marked by the ashes of his loved ones, earning him the moniker "Ghost of Sparta." This setup initiated a cascade of vengeance against the Olympian deities, presenting players with a gritty examination of betrayal and retribution intricately woven within the fabric of Greek mythology.

Combat in God of War drew from successful hack-and-slash mechanics, with Kratos wielding his iconic Blades of Chaos—two chained swords that facilitate fast-paced, brutal attacks against hordes of foes. The gameplay structure was a blend of arena combat, impactful boss battles, and a touch of platforming, reminiscent of a time when gameplay trumped narrative-driven experiences. Yet, beneath its engaging façade, the series was marred by a troubling depiction of women—often seen in overtly sexualized roles and tied to ludicrous mini-games.

As time marched forward, Santa Monica Studio recognized the need for change. With public discourse addressing issues like toxic masculinity gaining momentum, the creators began to peel back the layers of Kratos’ character. Cory Barlog—whose fingerprints are all over the series—often discussed Kratos' evolution, emphasizing the need for a shift from the barbaric simplicity of earlier narratives to a more nuanced, reflective protagonist.

The shift wasn’t just cosmetic. By 2018, in an era influenced by critically acclaimed titles like The Last of Us, Sony’s AAA games embraced a new standard, blending immersive storytelling and character development with gameplay mechanics. The reboot of God of War showcased a Kratos searching for peace in the realms of Norse mythology, diverging from his vengeful roots. This development not only provided a more profound emotional narrative but also a spotlight on Kratos’ introspection.

The latest entries have embraced modern gaming trends, integrating RPG elements that allow players to shape Kratos’ abilities, delve into character progression, and explore expansive open-world settings full of engaging side quests. The recent release of God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla harkens back to the series’ roots, offering a unique challenge system reminiscent of classic arcade games, allowing players to relive Kratos' earlier intensity in a new format while reflecting on his past.

As we look to the future, 2025 may usher in yet another evolution in gaming, reflecting ongoing changes in the industry’s approach to violence and narrative depth. Kratos may have shed some of his more egregious characteristics, but his legacy remains impactful as a reminder of an era in gaming defined by raw power, rage, and unapologetic brutality.

With hints of nostalgia and a promise of redemption, there’s a curious yearning for the unfiltered ferocity that characterized Kratos’ earlier explorations. As players continue seeking excitement and novelty in gaming experiences, perhaps the next God of War installment will allow us to unleash that primal energy once more, retaining the essence of what made the original series a pioneering force.

The evolution of gaming hinges on its return to these roots, striking a balance between chaotic energy and profound maturity—a testament to Kratos’ enduring legacy. The gods know we might just be due for the old God of War.