Why did Kratos change in God of War 4?
The latest installment of the God of War franchise, God of War (2018), marked a significant departure from the tone and style of the previous games. The game saw Kratos, the brutal and vengeful god-slayer, transform into a more nuanced and complex character. But why did this change occur?
Breaking the Cycle of Violence
According to Cory Barlog, the game director of God of War (2018), Kratos needed to change his cycle of violence and learn how to control his rage. His actions in the past, such as killing his wife and child, had brought him nothing but pain and suffering. By changing, Kratos could find redemption and start anew.
The Influence of Family
The introduction of Kratos’ son, Atreus, played a significant role in his transformation. As a father, Kratos was forced to confront his own mortality and the fate of his family. The bond between Kratos and Atreus helped Kratos to see the error of his ways and encouraged him to become a better person.
Loss and Grief
Kratos’ journey in God of War (2018) was also marked by the loss of his wife, Faye. Her passing forced Kratos to come to terms with his own mortality and the impermanence of life. The grief and sorrow he felt helped him to develop empathy and compassion, leading him to change his ways.
A New Purpose
Kratos’ new purpose in life was to journey with Atreus and fulfill his wife’s wish to spread her ashes at the highest peak in the realms. This quest for redemption and forgiveness gave Kratos a new sense of direction and purpose, making him a more well-rounded and relatable character.
Comparison to Previous Games
To better understand the changes in Kratos, let’s compare him to his previous iterations. In the original God of War trilogy, Kratos was a brutal and vengeful character, driven solely by his rage and need for revenge. In the prequel, God of War: Ascension, Kratos was still prone to outbursts of anger and violence.
However, in God of War (2018), Kratos is more measured in his actions. He struggles with his emotions and motivations, showing a more complex and nuanced character. The game’s story is centered around Kratos’ character development, exploring themes of grief, loss, and redemption.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics that highlight the change in Kratos’ character:
| Game | Kratos’ Rage Level | Kratos’ Emotional Maturity |
|---|---|---|
| God of War 1 | High | Low |
| God of War: Ascension | Moderate | Somewhat Low |
| God of War (2018) | Low | High |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kratos changed in God of War 4 due to a combination of factors, including breaking the cycle of violence, the influence of family, loss and grief, and a new purpose in life. The game’s shift in tone and style showcased a more complex and nuanced Kratos, one who struggles with his emotions and motivations. The changes in Kratos’ character made him more relatable and human, allowing players to connect with him on a deeper level.