2018's God of War and its sequel, God of War Ragnarok, have set a high standard for immersive, narrative-driven action-adventure games. Comparing any game to these masterpieces can lead to disappointment, yet there are titles that can satisfy your cravings for similar experiences. These games may not surpass the achievements of Sony Santa Monica Studio, but they effectively incorporate elements such as engaging combat, compelling storytelling, and rich world-building found in the recent God of War titles.
As we eagerly await updates on Kratos and Atreus' journey, here are seven games that God of War fans might enjoy. Whether you're drawn to the series for its visceral third-person combat, intricate world design, deep narrative, or exploration of Norse mythology, these games offer a similar thrill.
For more adventures with Kratos and Atreus, 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.
Senua's journey in Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice parallels Kratos' in God of War (2018), driven by the loss of a loved one and set within a mythology-rich Norse world. Her path leads to Ninja Theory's depiction of Helheim, familiar to God of War players, featuring shared characters like Garmr and Surtr. Like Kratos, Senua carries a talking head that enhances her story.
The game's combat system mirrors the visceral, over-the-shoulder third-person style of God of War, enhancing immersion through a continuous, one-shot camera approach. Both games boast strong character-driven narratives, with standout performances from Melina Juergens (Senua) and Christopher Judge (Kratos), both winners of Best Performance at The Game Awards in 2017 and 2022, respectively.
For more Hellblade action, be sure to 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 diverges from God of War in setting and gameplay, both series fall under the umbrella of meticulously crafted, story-centric, technically impressive third-person action-adventure games. Sony's first-party studios have perfected this genre, and God of War and The Last of Us exemplify this mastery.
Both series are propelled by strong narratives featuring well-developed characters and emotionally complex relationships. Fans of Kratos and Atreus' father-son dynamic may appreciate the similar protector-child relationship between Joel and Ellie, navigating a world fraught with danger.
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 immerses players in Northern Europe and Norse mythology, featuring familiar characters like Odin, Loki, Thor, Freya, and Tyr. Its melee combat system may appeal to God of War enthusiasts, while the game's RPG elements, including a skill tree, loot, and crafting, offer a deeper experience for those who enjoy the RPG aspects of God of War.
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, Linus, Stadia | Review: IGN’s Jotun review
For fans of God of War’s Norse mythology and/or boss fights.
Jotun presents a visually distinct exploration of Norse mythology through hand-drawn art, featuring characters like Jormungandr, Thor, Freya, Mimir, and Odin. The game focuses on exploration and light puzzle-solving, punctuated by intense 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 structure, featuring Metroidvania-like areas that expand as you progress. The game balances combat, puzzles, and exploration effectively, with a third-person perspective and snowy settings that God of War fans will find comfortable.
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 offers semi-open-world hubs similar to God of War, with areas unlocked by progression-based abilities. Fans may also enjoy the series' melee combat and challenging boss fights, driven by engaging gameplay and a compelling narrative. Both series share a common DNA, thanks to Stig Asmussen, who directed God of War 3 before helming the Star Wars Jedi games.
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 adventure style, yet it shares the emotional depth of God of War's narrative. Over five episodes, the story of Lee and Clem unfolds, echoing the parent-child dynamics and redemption themes central to God of War.
If you're new to the God of War series or looking for more, explore our guide on how to play the God of War games in order, or review our collection of every IGN God of War review.
Every God of War Review
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