Why Did They Shrink Kratos?
Kratos, the iconic protagonist of the God of War series, has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. In the 2018 game, his height was reduced from 8’0” to around 6’6”, making him a more relatable figure. But why did the developers decide to shrink Kratos?
A More Relatable Figure
According to game designers, the primary reason for shrinking Kratos was to make him more relatable to humans. By reducing his height, Kratos became more grounded and humanized, allowing players to connect with him on a deeper level. This change was intentional, as the developers wanted to shift the focus from Kratos’ godly powers to his personal struggles and emotions.
A Change in Storytelling
Another reason for the height reduction was to align with the new storytelling approach in the 2018 game. The developers wanted to create a more intimate and personal story, focusing on Kratos’ relationships with his son Atreus and the world around him. By making Kratos more human-sized, the game’s camera angles and visuals could be adjusted to create a more immersive and realistic experience.
Physical Changes
Kratos’ physical appearance has undergone significant changes throughout the series. In the original God of War games, he was depicted as a towering figure, with a height of around 7’8”. However, in the 2018 game, his height was reduced to 6’6”, making him more proportionate to the world around him.
Height Comparison
Here is a comparison of Kratos’ height in different games:
| Game | Height |
|---|---|
| God of War (2005) | 7’8” |
| God of War II (2007) | 7’8” |
| God of War III (2010) | 7’8” |
| God of War (2018) | 6’6” |
| God of War Ragnarök (2022) | 6’4” |
Impact on Gameplay
The reduction in Kratos’ height has had a significant impact on gameplay. With a lower center of gravity, Kratos is more agile and easier to control, allowing for more precise movements and attacks. Additionally, his reduced size makes him more vulnerable to attacks, requiring players to be more strategic in their combat approach.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to shrink Kratos was a deliberate choice made by the developers to create a more relatable and humanized character. By reducing his height, Kratos became more grounded and accessible, allowing players to connect with him on a deeper level. The change in storytelling approach and physical appearance has had a significant impact on gameplay, making the game more immersive and challenging.