The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Play God of War (2018) first, then God of War Ragnarök. Ragnarök is the sequel and final chapter of the Norse saga, so the 2018 game provides the story setup for it. You do not need to play the older Greek-era games to follow this Norse pair.
Why play God of War (2018) before Ragnarök?
The games are connected chapters, not two unrelated starting points. Santa Monica Studio identifies Ragnarök as the sequel to God of War (2018) and the conclusion of the Norse saga. Playing the 2018 game first gives you the intended lead-in to the sequel; starting with Ragnarök means entering the story later. Santa Monica Studio’s statement on PlayStation.Blog describes that relationship directly.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
God of War Ragnarök - PlayStation 5 | $37.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
God of War Ragnarök | $31.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
God Of War Ragnarok | Launch Edition | PS5 Game (PlayStation 5) | Brand NEW | PS6 PS5 Upgrade Soon | $46.44 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
PlayStation God of War Ragnarök Kratos 10-Inch Collector Plush | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
God of War Ragnarök (PS5) | $37.02 | Buy on Amazon |
This recommendation is about the Norse games. You can begin with the 2018 title without first playing the earlier games in the series, which cover a different era of Kratos’s story.
What if you can only play one right now?
If you want the story in its intended order, start with the 2018 game. If Ragnarök is the only one available to you, you can still choose to play it, but it is a sequel rather than the original entry in this Norse story. The official sources establish that continuity; they do not establish that one game is objectively better or provide a verified comparison of their difficulty, pacing, or combat.
#1 Best Overall
- Feel your journey through the Norse realms, made possible by immersive haptic feedback and adaptive trigger functionality.
- Take advantage of multidirectional 3D Audio; hear enemies approaching from any direction. (3D audio with stereo headphones (analog or USB))
- Bask in the beautiful worlds you travel through, brought to life by precise art direction and arresting attention to detail.
- Switch between full 4K resolution at a targeted 30 frames per second, or dynamic resolution upscaled to 4K at a targeted 60fps. (4K resolution requires a compatible 4K TV or display)
How long do both games take?
PlayStation’s franchise FAQ gives these estimates. They are publisher estimates, not guaranteed completion times; your pace and how much optional content you pursue will affect the total.
| Game and scope | PlayStation estimate |
|---|---|
| God of War (2018), main story | 20–25 hours |
| God of War (2018), completionist run | 40–50 hours |
| God of War Ragnarök, main story and selected side quests | Up to 40 hours |
| God of War Ragnarök, seeing everything | 55–60 hours |
These figures come from PlayStation’s God of War franchise page. Playing both campaigns is a substantial time commitment, particularly if you aim to complete optional content.
Rank #2
Which platforms have both games?
PlayStation lists both titles for PS4, PS5, and PC, with PC editions available through Steam and the Epic Games Store. The 2018 game originally released on PS4; Ragnarök released on PS4 and PS5. Edition and regional availability can vary, so check the listing for your location before buying.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Sony announced Ragnarök’s PC release for September 19, 2024. Its PC announcement describes features including unlocked frame rates, optional 4K on compatible hardware, upscaling options, and 21:9 and 32:9 display support. Those are vendor feature descriptions, not a guarantee of performance on any particular PC. Read Sony’s PC release announcement for the stated features and edition information.
Rank #3
- Those who break fate: Atreus seeks knowledge to help him understand the prophecy of "Loki" and what role he is to play in Ragnarök. Kratos must decide whether he will be chained by the fear of repeating his mistakes or break free of his past to be the father Atreus needs.
- Weapons of war : The Leviathan Axe, Blades of Chaos and Guardian Shield return alongside a host of new abilities for both Kratos and Atreus. As they take on gods and monsters from across the Nine Realms, Kratos's deadly Spartan skills will be tested like never before as he fights to protect his family.
- Explore the realms :Journey to dangerous and stunning landscapes and face a wide variety of enemy creatures, monsters and Norse gods as Kratos and Atreus search for answers and allies.
- Please note that this item is not for sale to people under the age of 18. By placing an order for this product, you declare that you are 18 years of age or older. This item must be used responsibly and appropriately.
Where does Valhalla fit?
God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla is additional content for Ragnarök, not a replacement for the 2018 story. PlayStation says it is free for PS4 and PS5 owners and included with the PC purchase. If you want the Norse narrative in order, play the 2018 game and then Ragnarök before treating Valhalla as an extra.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- OFFICIAL PLAYSTATION PLUSH: From the hit PS5 games, Kratos is made in the image of the legendary God of War, now available in collector plush form
- PREMIUM 10-INCH PLUSHIE: Spartan Kratos comes crafted with embroidered details and soft, premium materials. Kratos’ infamous scarring and tattoos mirror his in-game counterpart
- DISTINCTIVE TEXTURES: With a textured beard, fluffy eyebrows and more, Kratos is ready to save the day. The lovable Ghost of Sparta is equipped with arm guards and other amazing details from the game.
- GIFTS FOR GAMERS: Our action figures & plush toys make the ideal birthday gifts, stocking stuffers, & gamer gifts for fans. Collect all your favorites from God of War & other franchises on the PS5 console
- TOYS & GAMES FOR ALL: Presented by Spin Master, the creators of kids toys for boys & toys for girls who love collectibles, toy figures & playsets. Ideal holiday gift, for all ages
Recommended play order
- Play God of War (2018).
- Play God of War Ragnarök.
- Play God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla if you want the additional content.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
