Summary
WithGod of War Ragnarok: Valhallaseemingly bringing a complete close to Kratos' Norse saga arc, its ending suggests that there is still much to be done in the future. As the base game contained a plethora ofcharacter development arcs, theValhallaDLC managed to double down on this and provide a compelling experience rouge-like adventure while maintaining some important story elements - it answers questions that fans may have held based on the main campaign.
This epilogue toGod of War Ragnarokprovides fans with both answers and questions, along with hope for the future of the series. While it is unlikely fans will see anotherGod of Warinstallment for a while, there is no doubt that Santa Monica has plenty at their disposal to run with for a brand-new entry within the franchise.
5Kratos Accepts His Failings
Confronting His Younger Self Sees Kratos Begin Anew
Afterdefeating Tyr for the fourth time, players are greeted with the younger version of Kratos, which showcases Kratos coming to acceptance regarding his past. After the duration ofGod of War(2018) andRagnarok, Santa Monica has executed the character’s progression very well, turning him to a vengeful god, distant to everyone, to a kind yet powerful god, who wants acceptance that he never thought he deserved.
This comes after Kratos' constant attempt to turn away from the proposal, in fear of facing his past and accepting the life of violence and vengeance that was fueled by hatred. Now with Kratos back in the position he once was, it will be interesting to see how this will play into a futureGod of Wartitle featuring the beloved character, as he is no longer bound by shame surrounding the actions he committed during his time as the Ghost of Sparta, and his war against the Olympians.
4Focus On Atreus
Kratos' Character Journey Has Ended And Atreus' Has Just Begun
With Kratos' character development arc now fulfilled, starting from the very firstGod of Wargame to thisValhallaDLC, there is no better time than now to turn toward his son, Atreus as the main character. While some may be strongly against this, especially if it is labeled aGod of Wartitle, there is plenty that could be done with Atreus at the center of a new narrative, that could very well include Kratos.
The ending of the base game reveals Kratos and Atreus' final goodbye, as Atreus leaves to start his own journey. WithValhallafurther closing Kratos' chapter either temporarily or permanently, it opens the door to the future of the franchise, following Atreus on his way to becoming better, just as his father has. Alternatively, the DLC teases the idea that Atreus is no longer a focus in these games, as Kratos did not mention his son all that much, perhaps proving the hope that he will see him again without having to worry.
3Working With Freya
Kratos Joins Freya’s Council To Guide The Nine Realms, Not To Rule Them
After the full-fledged pursuit of revenge against Kratos forkilling Baldurhad settled down, Freya gradually began to warm up to Kratos toward the end of the main story. The DLC takes it a step further, with the two now set to work closely together by the end of the short narrative. With Kratos' acceptance of his past as aforementioned, he has also accepted Freya’s request to join her on the new council to maintain peace across the realms.
Whether the dynamic between these two characters potentially blossoms into something more significant is yet to be seen, but one thing for sure is it sets up a new game featuring Kratos perfectly well. With Mimir and Freya by his side, he will be even more of a force to be reckoned with.
2Kratos, God of Hope
The God of Hope Will Provide New And Unique Character Interactions
With Kratos now a changed god in the aftermath ofRagnarokandValhalla, fans can expect to see a new narrative filled with fascinating interactions that are unlike what most may be accustomed to.RagnarokandValhallagave fans a good glimpse at what to expect from a Kratos who paths the way of hope and peace, and who strives for the betterment and peace across all realms.
If what has already been showcased is anything to go by, then fans will be in for a treatif there is a new title that sticks with the fan-favorite character. Santa Monica has done an excellent job at maintaining the character’s aggressive and intimidating nature, while still developing him to a stage where he is not relentless and completely savage with his ideals.
1New Weapons
The Blade Of Olympus Made Its Return In The Valhalla DLC
Among the plethora of surprises filled in the DLC, was the presence of theBlade of Olympusfrom the original Greece trilogy. This was an instant throwback for hardcoreGod of Warfans, and it is interesting to see Kratos who is not hellbent on revenge, wield a weapon of such ferocity.
On this occasion, it is used as Spartan Rage rather than a new addition to Kratos' arsenal of weapons and serves as a great way of clearing the crowd of stubborn enemies. With the positive reception of its return, it could spark similar weapons to those in the trilogy making an appearance in a future game. Alternatively, fans get a first look atTyr’s weapons from across his travelsto other pantheons, and perhaps Kratos will see a use for these weapons if he ever ventures outside the Nine Realms.
