The 2018 release of God of War and its sequel, God of War Ragnarok, have set a high standard for immersive, narrative-driven action-adventure games. While comparing any game to these masterpieces might lead to disappointment, there are several titles that can satisfy fans of the series. These games may not surpass the benchmarks set by Sony Santa Monica Studio, but they effectively incorporate similar design and gameplay elements found in the recent God of War titles.
As we eagerly await further developments on Kratos and Atreus's journey, here are seven games that God of War enthusiasts might find appealing, whether drawn to the series for its intense third-person combat, richly crafted worlds, engaging narratives, or exploration of Norse mythology.
For more God of War content, don't miss the 2023 God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla DLC.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Image credit: Ninja Theory
Developer: Ninja Theory | Publisher: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 8, 2017 | Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC | Review: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice review
For fans of God of War’s combat, Norse setting/mythological exploration, and/or story.
In Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Senua's journey mirrors Kratos's in God of War (2018), driven by the loss of a loved one and set within a richly detailed Norse world. Her path leads her through Ninja Theory's rendition of Helheim, featuring familiar mythological figures like Garmr and Surtr. Like Kratos, Senua interacts with a severed head, adding a unique twist to her narrative.
The game's combat is visceral and third-person, akin to God of War, and both titles utilize a continuous, one-shot cinematic approach to enhance immersion. The compelling performances of Melina Juergens as Senua and Christopher Judge as Kratos have both earned accolades, with each winning Best Performance at The Game Awards in 2017 and 2022, respectively.
For more of Senua's story, check out the sequel, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2.
The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2
Image credit: Sony
Developer: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony | Release Date: Remastered Part 1: September 2, 2022; Part 2: June 19, 2020 | Platforms: Part 2: PS5, PS4; Part 1: PS5, PS4, PS3, PC | Review: IGN's The Last of Us Part 1 review and The Last of Us Part 2 review
For fans of God of War’s story, immersive world, and/or cinematic qualities.
While The Last of Us differs from God of War in setting and gameplay, both fall under the category of meticulously crafted, story-rich, technically impressive third-person action-adventure games. Sony and its first-party studios have honed this genre over recent console generations, with God of War and The Last of Us exemplifying this mastery.
Both series boast narratives driven by well-developed characters and emotionally charged relationships. Fans of Kratos and Atreus's father-son dynamic will appreciate the similar protector-child relationship between Joel and Ellie, navigating a world fraught with peril.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release Date: November 10, 2020 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4/5, Xbox One, PC, Stadia, Luna | Review: IGN’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla review
For fans of God of War’s Norse setting/mythological exploration, combat, and/or RPG mechanics.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla transports players to Northern Europe, steeped in Norse mythology. Familiar characters like Odin, Loki, Thor, Freya, and Tyr appear, resonating with God of War fans. The game's melee combat and RPG elements, including a skill tree, loot, and upgradeable armor, should appeal to those who enjoy God of War's mechanics.
Explore more games like Assassin's Creed if you enjoyed Valhalla.
Jotun
Image credit: Thunder Lotus Games
Developer: Thunder Lotus Games | Publisher: Thunder Lotus Games | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Wii U, PC, Mac, Linux, Stadia | Review: IGN’s Jotun review
For fans of God of War’s Norse mythology and/or boss fights.
Jotun offers a unique take on Norse mythology with its hand-drawn art style, featuring characters like Jormungandr, Thor, Freya, Mimir, and Odin. While slower-paced and focused on exploration and puzzles, the game intensifies with challenging boss battles against massive Norse giants.
Rise of the Tomb Raider
Image credit: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios
Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Publisher: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios | Release Date: November 10, 2015 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, Mac | Review: IGN’s Rise of the Tomb Raider review
For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design.
Rise of the Tomb Raider shares God of War's semi-open-world approach, featuring Metroidvania-like areas that expand as you progress. While it leans more on ranged combat, its third-person perspective and narrative-driven gameplay will feel familiar to God of War fans.
Discover our guide to playing the Tomb Raider games in order.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order & Survivor
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: Fallen Order: November 15, 2019; Survivor: April 28, 2023 | Platforms: Survivor: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC; Fallen Order: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Review: IGN’s Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order review and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor review
For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design and/or combat.
The Star Wars Jedi series, like God of War, features explorable hubs and progression-based abilities that unlock new areas. Fans will appreciate the satisfying melee combat and challenging boss fights, as well as the engaging gameplay and compelling story, which share a lineage with God of War through director Stig Asmussen.
Check out our picks for the best Star Wars games of all time.
The Walking Dead: Season 1
Developer: Telltale Games | Publisher: Telltale Games | Release Date: April 24, 2012 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Mobile | Review: IGN's The Walking Dead: The Game review
For fans of God of War’s story.
Telltale’s The Walking Dead offers a different gameplay experience with its choice-based, point-and-click format and QTE-driven action. However, its emotional storytelling and character development resonate deeply, much like God of War. The narrative follows Lee, a man seeking redemption, as he protects and guides young Clementine through an apocalyptic world, echoing the parent-child dynamic central to God of War.
If you're new to the God of War series, explore our guide on the best way to play the games in order, or delve into our collection of every IGN God of War review.
Every God of War Review
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