Few games in recent history have generated as much hype and expectation as God of War: Ragnarok. As the follow-up to 2018’s critically acclaimed God of War reboot, Ragnarok promised to deliver a dramatic conclusion to Kratos and Atreus’ Norse saga. Having sunk dozens of hours into this epic PlayStation exclusive, I can confidently say that Ragnarok doesn’t just meet expectations — it shatters them. From its breathtaking storytelling to refined combat and jaw-dropping visuals, this game is nothing short of a modern masterpiece.
In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with the game — what works, what could be better, and why this entry will be remembered as one of the defining titles of this console generation.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Combat: Brutal, Fluid, and Deep
Ragnarok refines the combat system introduced in 2018’s God of War. Kratos’ Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos return with new upgrades, combos, and elemental effects that make every battle feel dynamic and rewarding. The addition of new runic attacks and shield techniques provides even greater customization, letting you adapt your fighting style to your preferred approach — whether that’s aggressive melee combos or tactical ranged attacks.
As I progressed through the game, I noticed how enemy variety had been significantly expanded. From berserkers that test your timing to massive bosses that fill the entire screen, the combat never feels repetitive. Mastering the parry system and combining Atreus’ support abilities with Kratos’ brute force created some of the most satisfying combat encounters I’ve ever experienced.
Exploration and Puzzles
The semi-open-world design is back, and this time it feels even more rewarding. Each realm offers unique puzzles, hidden treasures, and side quests — or favors — that add depth to the story and the characters. Whether it was solving environmental puzzles in Svartalfheim’s mines or battling hidden bosses in Vanaheim, exploration always felt purposeful.
The puzzles are clever without being frustrating, often requiring creative use of your weapons’ elemental powers. It’s a design choice that makes you feel like an active participant in Kratos and Atreus’ journey, rather than just a spectator.
Atreus as a Playable Character
One of the boldest gameplay changes is the ability to control Atreus in specific segments. His combat style, focusing on speed, ranged attacks, and magic, provides a refreshing change of pace. These sections aren’t just a gimmick; they deepen the bond between father and son and add narrative weight to the overall story.
Graphics and Sound
Visuals: A Feast for the Eyes
On the PlayStation 5, Ragnarok is a visual triumph. The Nine Realms are more detailed and diverse than ever — from the icy expanses of Midgard to the lush forests of Vanaheim, each location feels alive and meticulously crafted. The lighting, textures, and character animations are so polished that cutscenes and gameplay flow seamlessly together.
Even on a PS4, the game performs impressively, though the PS5’s 60fps performance mode is the definitive way to experience it. Every cinematic moment, every explosive boss fight, feels smoother and more immersive.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting
Bear McCreary’s soundtrack deserves special mention. The haunting Norse melodies combined with thunderous battle themes perfectly capture the game’s emotional and epic tones.
The voice acting is equally stellar. Christopher Judge once again delivers a powerhouse performance as Kratos, while Sunny Suljic shines as a more mature and confident Atreus. Supporting characters like Mimir, Freya, and even new additions like Thor and Odin are brought to life with incredible nuance, making the entire cast memorable.
Storyline: A Powerful Conclusion
Emotional Depth and Character Growth
Ragnarok’s narrative is its strongest feature. The game explores complex themes of fate, family, loss, and redemption in a way few games dare to attempt. Kratos, once defined solely by rage, is now a father trying desperately to protect his son from a prophecy that seems impossible to escape. Atreus, no longer the boy from the first game, wrestles with his own identity and the burden of being Loki in a world on the brink of war.
The interactions between characters are what make the story shine. Quiet moments — like Kratos reluctantly sharing his past or Atreus questioning his father’s choices — hit just as hard as the game’s grand, cinematic battles. The emotional stakes kept me fully invested from start to finish.
The Antagonists: Thor and Odin
Thor and Odin are not just villains; they’re complex, layered characters that elevate the narrative. Odin, in particular, is written with a manipulative charm that makes every encounter with him tense and unpredictable. These antagonists make the story more compelling, adding shades of gray to what could have been a simple good-versus-evil tale.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Masterful storytelling with emotional depth
- Refined and satisfying combat with more variety
- Breathtaking visuals and cinematic presentation
- Stellar voice acting and soundtrack
- Meaningful side quests that enhance the main story
- Smooth performance on both PS5 and PS4
Cons
- Occasional pacing issues in the middle chapters
- Some puzzles may feel repetitive over time
- No true post-game DLC (at least at launch), leaving fans hungry for more
Replayability and Long-Term Value
While the main story can be completed in around 25–30 hours, Ragnarok offers dozens of hours of additional content. Completing all favors, hunting for collectibles, and challenging optional bosses like the Berserker Souls or the endgame Valkyrie equivalent keeps the experience fresh long after the credits roll.
New Game Plus, added in later updates, further enhances replayability, letting you carry over gear and face tougher enemies. It’s a game that rewards exploration and mastery, ensuring it stays on your radar long after the first playthrough.
Tips and Recommendations
- Explore every realm: Many side quests reveal hidden lore and powerful gear.
- Experiment with builds: Customize Kratos’ armor and runic attacks to match your combat style.
- Use Atreus effectively: His arrows and abilities can turn the tide of tough battles.
- Take your time: Don’t rush the story — the emotional beats are best savored slowly.
- Engage with the community: Fan discussions often highlight hidden secrets and strategies you might miss.
Final Verdict: 9.5/10
God of War: Ragnarok is more than just a sequel; it’s a bold and emotional conclusion to one of gaming’s most celebrated sagas. It improves upon its predecessor in almost every way, delivering a deeply personal story wrapped in thrilling combat and jaw-dropping visuals.
While a few pacing hiccups and minor repetitiveness keep it from absolute perfection, the experience as a whole is unforgettable. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to Kratos’ world, Ragnarok is a must-play and one of the finest action-adventure games ever created.