Play God of War (2018) first, then God of War Ragnarök. Ragnarök is the sequel and final chapter of the Norse saga, so the 2018 game provides the intended story lead-in. You do not need to play every older Greek-era God of War game to follow this pair.
Why play God of War (2018) before Ragnarök?
God of War Ragnarök directly continues the Norse story begun in God of War (2018). Santa Monica Studio describes Ragnarök as “the sequel to God of War (2018) and the final chapter of the Norse saga.” Playing in that order gives you the story setup before its continuation. Sony’s 2024 announcement confirms the sequel relationship.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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God of War Ragnarök - PlayStation 5 | $37.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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God of War Ragnarök | $31.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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God Of War Ragnarok | Launch Edition | PS5 Game (PlayStation 5) | Brand NEW | PS6 PS5 Upgrade Soon | $46.44 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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PlayStation God of War Ragnarök Kratos 10-Inch Collector Plush | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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God of War Ragnarök (PS5) | $37.02 | Buy on Amazon |
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Can you play Ragnarök first?
You can choose to start with Ragnarök if it is the game you have access to or want to play now, but that means entering the Norse story at its sequel. If you care about following the narrative in sequence, start with the 2018 game. This recommendation is about story order, not a claim that one game is objectively better.
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How much time should you set aside?
Sony’s franchise FAQ gives these estimates; actual playtime varies with pace and how much optional content you pursue:
#1 Best Overall
- Feel your journey through the Norse realms, made possible by immersive haptic feedback and adaptive trigger functionality.
- Take advantage of multidirectional 3D Audio; hear enemies approaching from any direction. (3D audio with stereo headphones (analog or USB))
- Bask in the beautiful worlds you travel through, brought to life by precise art direction and arresting attention to detail.
- Switch between full 4K resolution at a targeted 30 frames per second, or dynamic resolution upscaled to 4K at a targeted 60fps. (4K resolution requires a compatible 4K TV or display)
| Game | Publisher estimate |
|---|---|
| God of War (2018) | 20–25 hours for the main story; 40–50 hours for a completionist run |
| God of War Ragnarök | Up to 40 hours for the main story and a selection of side quests; 55–60 hours to see everything |
The two main-story estimates add up to roughly 60–65 hours, but Ragnarök’s figure includes a selection of side quests, so this is not a like-for-like comparison. The figures are publisher estimates, not guaranteed completion times. PlayStation’s franchise page lists the estimates.
Where can you play both games?
PlayStation lists both games for PS4, PS5 and PC, with PC editions available through Steam and the Epic Games Store. The 2018 game was originally released on PS4; Ragnarök launched on PS4 and PS5. Editions and regional availability may differ, so check the local listing for the version you plan to play. PlayStation’s franchise hub provides the platform information.
Rank #2
Sony announced that Ragnarök’s PC release would arrive on September 19, 2024. The publisher described features including unlocked frame rates, optional 4K on compatible hardware, upscaling options and support for 21:9 and 32:9 displays; actual performance depends on the PC. Sony’s PC announcement also lists Digital Deluxe edition contents, including the official digital soundtrack and a Dark Horse digital mini artbook.
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What about Ragnarök: Valhalla?
God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla is additional content that follows Ragnarök, not a replacement for the 2018 story. PlayStation says it is free for PS4 and PS5 owners and included with the PC purchase. The franchise page lists its availability.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- OFFICIAL PLAYSTATION PLUSH: From the hit PS5 games, Kratos is made in the image of the legendary God of War, now available in collector plush form
- PREMIUM 10-INCH PLUSHIE: Spartan Kratos comes crafted with embroidered details and soft, premium materials. Kratos’ infamous scarring and tattoos mirror his in-game counterpart
- DISTINCTIVE TEXTURES: With a textured beard, fluffy eyebrows and more, Kratos is ready to save the day. The lovable Ghost of Sparta is equipped with arm guards and other amazing details from the game.
- GIFTS FOR GAMERS: Our action figures & plush toys make the ideal birthday gifts, stocking stuffers, & gamer gifts for fans. Collect all your favorites from God of War & other franchises on the PS5 console
- TOYS & GAMES FOR ALL: Presented by Spin Master, the creators of kids toys for boys & toys for girls who love collectibles, toy figures & playsets. Ideal holiday gift, for all ages
Rank #3
- Those who break fate: Atreus seeks knowledge to help him understand the prophecy of "Loki" and what role he is to play in Ragnarök. Kratos must decide whether he will be chained by the fear of repeating his mistakes or break free of his past to be the father Atreus needs.
- Weapons of war : The Leviathan Axe, Blades of Chaos and Guardian Shield return alongside a host of new abilities for both Kratos and Atreus. As they take on gods and monsters from across the Nine Realms, Kratos's deadly Spartan skills will be tested like never before as he fights to protect his family.
- Explore the realms :Journey to dangerous and stunning landscapes and face a wide variety of enemy creatures, monsters and Norse gods as Kratos and Atreus search for answers and allies.
- Please note that this item is not for sale to people under the age of 18. By placing an order for this product, you declare that you are 18 years of age or older. This item must be used responsibly and appropriately.
Recommended play order
- Play God of War (2018) for the beginning of the Norse story.
- Continue with God of War Ragnarök, the sequel and final Norse-saga chapter.
- Choose Valhalla afterward if you want the additional Ragnarök content.
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