The 2018 release of *God of War* and its sequel, *God of War Ragnarok*, have set a high standard for immersive, narrative-driven action-adventure games. Comparing any game to these masterpieces might lead to high expectations and potential disappointment. However, there are numerous titles that can satisfy your craving for similar experiences, even if they don't surpass the benchmarks set by Sony Santa Monica Studio. These games share key design and gameplay elements with the recent *God of War* titles, providing a comparable gaming experience.
While we eagerly anticipate further developments on Kratos and Atreus' journey, here are seven games that *God of War* enthusiasts might enjoy. Whether you're drawn to the series for its intense third-person combat, intricate world-building, gripping narrative, or exploration of Norse mythology, these games should pique your interest.
For those seeking more *God of War* action, don't miss out on the 2023 *God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla DLC*.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Image credit: Ninja Theory
Developer: Ninja Theory | Publisher: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 8, 2017 | Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC | Review: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice review
**For fans of God of War's combat, Norse setting/mythological exploration, and/or story.**
Senua, like Kratos, embarks on a perilous journey driven by the memory of a lost loved one, navigating a world steeped in Norse mythology. Her path leads her through Ninja Theory's rendition of Helheim, a familiar realm to *God of War* players, featuring characters such as Garmr and Surtr. Much like Kratos, Senua carries a decapitated head, adding a unique twist to her adventure.
The gameplay mirrors *God of War* with its visceral third-person combat, viewed from an immersive over-the-shoulder perspective. Both games also utilize a continuous, one-shot cinematic approach to heighten immersion.
The compelling narratives of both games are elevated by standout performances: Melina Juergens as Senua won Best Performance at The Game Awards in 2017, while Christopher Judge as Kratos took home the same award in 2022.
For more of Senua's journey, check out the sequel, *Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2*.
The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2
Image credit: Sony
Developer: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony | Release Date: Remastered Part 1: September 2, 2022; Part 2: June 19, 2020 | Platforms: Part 2: PS5, PS4; Part 1: PS5, PS4, PS3, PC | Review: IGN's The Last of Us Part 1 review and The Last of Us Part 2 review
**For fans of God of War's story, immersive world, and/or cinematic qualities.**
While *The Last of Us* differs in setting and gameplay from *God of War*, both fall under the umbrella of meticulously crafted, story-rich, technically impressive third-person action-adventure games from Sony. Over the last two console generations, Sony and its first-party studios have honed this genre, with *God of War* and *The Last of Us* epitomizing this excellence.
Both series are driven by compelling narratives, centered around well-developed characters and their emotionally charged relationships. Fans of the father-son dynamic between Kratos and Atreus will appreciate the similar protector-protégé relationship between Joel and Ellie, as both stories feature a morally ambiguous guardian guiding a spirited teenager through a perilous world.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release Date: November 10, 2020 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4/5, Xbox One, PC, Stadia, Luna | Review: IGN’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla review
**For fans of God of War's Norse setting/mythological exploration, combat, and/or RPG mechanics.**
*Assassin’s Creed Valhalla* transports players to Northern Europe, immersing them in Norse mythology. Familiar characters such as Odin, Loki, Thor, Freya, and Tyr from the Nine Realms make appearances, resonating with *God of War* fans.
The game's melee combat may appeal to those who enjoy *God of War's* combat, while its deep RPG mechanics offer an expanded skill tree, loot system, side activities, and customizable armor that can be upgraded through resource gathering and crafting.
For more games akin to *Assassin’s Creed*, explore our list of titles similar to *Valhalla*.
Jotun
Image credit: Thunder Lotus Games
Developer: Thunder Lotus Games | Publisher: Thunder Lotus Games | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Wii U, PC, Mac, Linux, Stadia | Review: IGN’s Jotun review
**For fans of God of War's Norse mythology and/or boss fights.**
*Jotun* presents a unique take on Norse mythology with its hand-drawn art style, featuring characters like Jormungandr, Thor, Freya, Mimir, and Odin. Unlike the fast-paced action of *God of War*, *Jotun* emphasizes exploration and puzzle-solving, yet it delivers intense and challenging boss battles against colossal Norse giants.
Rise of the Tomb Raider
Image credit: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios
Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Publisher: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios | Release Date: November 10, 2015 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, Mac | Review: IGN’s Rise of the Tomb Raider review
**For fans of God of War's semi-open-world design.**
*Rise of the Tomb Raider* shares *God of War's* semi-open-world design, with interconnected Metroidvania-style areas that expand as you progress. This design suits games that blend combat, puzzles, and exploration, which *Rise of the Tomb Raider* and *God of War* excel at.
While *Tomb Raider* focuses more on ranged combat, its third-person perspective and snowy setting will feel familiar to *God of War* fans. The game also features a strong, character-driven narrative.
For a complete experience, see our guide on how to play the *Tomb Raider* games in order.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order & Survivor
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: Fallen Order: November 15, 2019; Survivor: April 28, 2023 | Platforms: Survivor: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC; Fallen Order: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Review: IGN’s Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order review and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor review
**For fans of God of War's semi-open-world design and/or combat.**
The *Star Wars Jedi* series, like *God of War*, features explorable hubs with areas unlocked by progression-based abilities. Fans of *God of War* may appreciate the engaging melee combat and challenging boss fights in *Fallen Order* and *Survivor*. Both series blend immersive worlds with rewarding exploration and compelling stories, sharing a creative lineage through Stig Asmussen, who directed *God of War 3* before leading the *Star Wars Jedi* games.
For more *Star Wars* gaming experiences, check out our list of the best *Star Wars* games of all time.
The Walking Dead: Season 1
Developer: Telltale Games | Publisher: Telltale Games | Release Date: April 24, 2012 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Mobile | Review: IGN's The Walking Dead: The Game review
**For fans of God of War's story.**
*Telltale's The Walking Dead* offers a vastly different gameplay experience with its choice-based, point-and-click format and minimal action sequences. However, the emotional depth of its characters and narrative mirrors that of *God of War*. Over five episodes, the first season delivers a poignant story about redemption and protection, similar to *God of War* and *The Last of Us*. Players guide Lee, a man seeking redemption, as he forms a parent-like bond with Clementine amidst an apocalyptic backdrop.
What is your favorite game that captures the essence of *God of War (2018)*? Let us know in the comments!
If you're new to the *God of War* series, explore our guide on the best way to play the *God of War* games in chronological order, and browse through our comprehensive collection of every *God of War* review from IGN.
Every God of War Review
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