Why did Kratos turn black?
The iconic Greek warrior Kratos, the protagonist of the God of War series, has undergone a significant transformation over the years. In the early games of the series, Kratos was depicted as a blond-haired, blue-eyed, and pale-skinned warrior. However, in the 2018 game God of War, Kratos’s appearance underwent a significant change, and he was portrayed with olive-toned skin, gray hair, and a rugged, battle-hardened look. This transformation sparked curiosity among fans and led to the question: why did Kratos turn black?
Kratos’s Ethnicity
Kratos, as a character, is of Greek descent, and his ethnicity has always been a topic of debate. In an interview, Stig Asmussen, the game director of God of War (2005), revealed that Kratos was designed to be a Greek warrior, inspired by the ancient Greek art and mythology. Asmussen stated that Kratos was meant to be a Greek warrior, and his physical appearance was based on Greek mythology.
Ashes of his Family
Kratos’s skin color transformation can be attributed to the ashes of his family. In the game, Kratos’s wife, Lysandra, and their child, Calliope, were killed by his own hands. In a fit of rage and grief, Kratos spread the ashes of his family all over his body, including his skin. This traumatic event left an indelible mark on Kratos, not only emotionally but also physically.
Natural Skin Tone
Before his transformation, Kratos was depicted as having pale, almost albino-like skin. However, the God of War team, under the direction of Cory Barlog, aimed to give Kratos a more realistic appearance. According to Barlog, the team wanted to emphasize Kratos’s age, his experiences, and his vulnerability. They chose to make him olive-toned to reflect his Greek heritage and to make him look more like a mortal being.
African-American Influence
Some fans have suggested that Kratos’s black skin tone is influenced by African-American culture. Angrboda, a character from God of War Ragnarok, has been praised for her depiction as a young black woman. The character’s appearance has been hailed as a representation of diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry. While this might be true, it’s essential to note that Kratos’s black skin tone was introduced in 2018, long before Angrboda’s debut in God of War Ragnarok.
Cultural Representation
The change in Kratos’s skin tone has been met with controversy, with some fans feeling that it’s a step forward for representation and others viewing it as a mistake. However, the change reflects a broader cultural shift in the gaming industry. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on diversity and representation in gaming. The inclusion of diverse characters and storylines has led to a more inclusive gaming environment.
Table: God of War Character Developments
| Game | Kratos’s Appearance | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| God of War (2005) | Blond hair, blue eyes, pale skin | Inspired by ancient Greek art and mythology |
| God of War III (2010) | Blond hair, blue eyes, pale skin | Continuing the character’s early appearance |
| God of War (2018) | Olive-toned skin, gray hair | Introduced in response to the game’s storyline and cultural shift |
| God of War Ragnarok (2022) | Olive-toned skin, gray hair | Featuring diverse characters, including Angrboda, a young black woman |
In conclusion, Kratos’s transformation from a pale-skinned, blond-haired warrior to an olive-toned, gray-haired hero is a reflection of the character’s growth and the game’s cultural shift. While the change has sparked controversy, it is essential to acknowledge the progress made in representation and diversity in the gaming industry. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to provide a platform for diverse voices and characters, such as Kratos, to tell their stories.