Should I Play the Original God of War Before the New One?
The recent release of God of War Ragnarok has sparked renewed interest in the God of War franchise, with many gamers wondering whether they should play the original games before diving into the new title. While it’s possible to play the new God of War without prior knowledge of the series, knowing the original story and characters can enrich the experience.
Understanding the Original Game
God of War is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game that follows Kratos, a Spartan warrior, on his quest to avenge his family and destroy Olympus. The original game sets the stage for the events of the sequel, providing essential backstory for Kratos’ character.
Important Events and Characters
• The original game introduces Kratos, his wife Faye, and his son Atreus, who would become key characters in the new God of War game.
• Ares, the Greek God of War, is introduced as the main antagonist of the game, providing crucial context for Kratos’ motivations in the new title.
• Zeus, the King of the Gods, is also present in the original game, setting the stage for his role in the new God of War.
Relevance of the Original Game to Ragnarok
God of War Ragnarok picks up after the events of the previous game, providing a fresh start for newcomers while honoring the original storyline. Understanding the original game can provide valuable context, including:
• Kratos’ character development: His journey from being a revenge-driven warrior to a guardian and mentor can be seen as a critical aspect of his growth as a character.
• Faye’s presence: The original game showcases Faye’s role in Kratos’ life and her relationships with him and Atreus, giving depth to the characters in the new title.
• Greek mythology: Knowing the origins of the characters and mythological events provides a better understanding of the world-building in God of War Ragnarok.
Conclusion
While it is possible to play God of War Ragnarok without playing the original game, the new title builds upon the foundation set by the earlier game. Understanding the characters, story, and themes of the original game can enhance the experience and provide a more immersive and rewarding journey for players.
Recommendations
- Play the original God of War game for a deeper understanding of the characters and storyline.
- Familiarize yourself with the Greek gods and goddesses, including Ares, Zeus, and Olympus.
- Pay attention to Kratos’ character development and the relationships between Kratos, Faye, and Atreus.
- Read reviews and recaps to get a refresher on the original game’s plot and characters.
- Try playing the remastered or re-released version of the original game, which provides improved graphics and gameplay mechanics.
By considering the above points, gamers can make an informed decision on whether to play the original God of War game before diving into God of War Ragnarok. Even if they choose not to, knowing the backstory and characters will still enhance their experience of the new title.