How evil is Kratos?

How Evil is Kratos?

Kratos, the Ghost of Sparta, has been a central figure in the God of War video game series since its inception. Over the years, his character has undergone significant changes, transforming from an anti-hero to a fully-fledged villain. As the series progressed, Kratos’s actions became increasingly brutal, leaving many players wondering how evil he actually is. In this article, we’ll delve into the nature of Kratos’s evil and explore what makes him one of the most complex and intriguing characters in gaming.

From Anti-Hero to Full-Fledged Villain

Kratos’s transformation from an anti-hero to a villain began with the original God of War game. Initially, he was portrayed as a heroic figure, avenging his family’s death and seeking revenge against the Olympian gods. However, as the series progressed, Kratos’s character evolved, and his motivations shifted from seeking justice to becoming a force of chaos and destruction.

Killing the Gods

Kratos’s most significant actions in the series are arguably his brutal killings of various gods. He has slayed the entire Greek pantheon, including gods such as Ares, Athena, Poseidon, Hades, and Zeus. These acts of violence demonstrate Kratos’s capacity for evil, as he showed no qualms about destroying beings considered sacred and powerful by the Greek people.

His Actions in God of War: Ragnarök

In the latest installment, God of War: Ragnarök, Kratos’s character undergoes significant changes once again. He becomes consumed by rage and anger, driven by his desire for revenge against the Norse gods. He kills numerous innocent bystanders, including giants and other mythological creatures. These actions raise questions about Kratos’s moral character and his capacity for compassion.

Kratos’s Psychological State

Kratos’s psychological state is an essential aspect of his character. Throughout the series, he struggles with PTSD, anger issues, and depression. These mental health concerns are a direct result of his traumatic experiences, particularly the loss of his wife and daughter. His anger and aggression are often manifestations of his inner turmoil and a cry for help. However, this does not excuse his violent behavior or justify his actions.

Comparing Kratos to Other Video Game Characters

Kratos is often compared to other iconic video game characters, such as the Joker or GLaDOS. Like these characters, Kratos’s actions are fueled by a desire for destruction and chaos. However, unlike them, Kratos’s motivations are rooted in a sense of loss, grief, and trauma, making his character more relatable and complex.

Conclusion

Kratos is undoubtedly an evil character in the God of War series. His actions are motivated by a desire for destruction and chaos, and his capacity for violence is staggering. However, his psychological state and backstory make his character more nuanced and relatable. Kratos’s evolution from an anti-hero to a villain serves as a testament to the complexity of his character, and his capacity for evil is a powerful reflection of the human psyche.

Table: Kratos’s Kills

References

• [1] God of War (2005)
• [2] God of War II (2007)
• [3] God of War: Ascension (2013)
• [4] God of War (2018)
• [5] God of War: Ragnarök (2022)