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Growing up is an inevitable part of life. We all change as we age, shaped by our experiences and the people we meet. Kratos, the infamous protagonist of the God of War series, finds himself at a crossroads in the latest entry from Sony Santa Monica. The franchise is known for its unrelenting violence, vulgarity, and Kratos' unwavering rage. But this time, we encounter a Kratos who has evolved, retaining the core of what made him a legendary character. It's this transformation that delivers one of the most compelling narratives in recent memory, while still providing a thrilling gaming experience.
Sins of the Past
Treading lightly on God of War's story is a challenge, given the numerous twists and turns that deserve to be experienced firsthand. However, those who have followed the development of this new installment are familiar with its central premise. Kratos has become a single father, raising his young son, Atreus, while embarking on a perilous journey through a world teeming with monsters, both living and dead.
This isn't the same Kratos that fans remember at the start of the game. He has embraced family life, but unforeseen circumstances thrust him and Atreus into an adventure through the Norse land of Midgard. What ensues is a profound exploration of fate, maturity, and the power to choose one's path. Can people truly change who they are, or are they bound to a certain destiny, forever judged for their past actions?
For Atreus, this theme becomes a personal quest to carve out his own identity in the world. Without revealing too much about the Kratos/Atreus dynamic, God of War offers a fascinating look at the struggle to be better, acknowledging imperfections while striving to live life on one's own terms.
A Bonding Experience
The God of War combat formula returns with added depth and complexity. The standout addition is the Leviathan Axe, Kratos' answer to Mjolnir. This versatile weapon can be wielded both in melee combat and thrown at distant foes. Kratos boasts multiple fighting styles, whether armed or unarmed, with a wealth of upgrades and unlockable attacks.
Atreus is a capable fighter in his own right, often providing support from a safe distance. While he's mostly impervious to harm, there are instances where he can be temporarily incapacitated, making those encounters more challenging. Atreus' arrows can be upgraded to deliver substantial damage or create valuable distractions. At times, he courageously joins the fray, strangling enemies and creating openings for Kratos to unleash devastating combos.
Beyond the thrill of combat, there are touching moments in the game where Kratos and Atreus strengthen their bond through various activities. These scenes, such as Kratos teaching Atreus how to hunt or Atreus solving puzzles in hard-to-reach places, add depth to their relationship. These moments provide a unique perspective on the evolution of their dynamic, a highlight of the game.
Regarding quick-time events (QTEs), they were less prevalent in early gameplay but become more noticeable as the story progresses. While they are less intrusive than in previous God of War titles, they occasionally overstay their welcome.
Father/Son Camping Trip
Unlike previous linear God of War titles, the PC version of God of War offers a more open-world experience. While the initial hours follow a defined path, the game eventually opens up significantly. This expansiveness extends beyond the main map, allowing players to explore multiple worlds, each filled with puzzles, hidden areas, and collectibles.
A minor criticism lies in the sheer number of collectibles. With various currencies, lore pieces, tokens, and more, it can feel overwhelming. Some serve purposes like customization at a dwarf shop, while others contribute to Atreus' journal or seem to exist for the sake of collecting. For instance, collecting 100 ravens feels unnecessary.
However, many of the side paths are rewarding. Hidden temples offer legendary items for Kratos, along with challenging puzzles and battles for those seeking additional difficulty.
Boyhood to Godhood
God of War, while never known for its depth, compensates with a vast world and a heartwarming story. Beyond Kratos and Atreus, the game introduces lovable characters, making the journey even more engaging. Completion of the main story doesn't mark the end but feels like the beginning of a broader adventure. The post-game content expands the world, making it feel more open and alive.
God of War breathes new life into the franchise with a reimagined world and enhanced customization options. While slightly less gory, the classic God of War combat remains satisfying. Tearing monsters apart with bare hands remains as exhilarating as ever. Even as it's time to grow up, some things don't need to change too much.
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