[h1] A Masterpiece [/h1]
[b] They took everything that made the previous game great and built so much more on top of it, creating a truly magnificent work. Simply perfect. It stands as a continuation fully worthy of God of War's story and legacy. The graphics and gameplay are impressive, while the atmosphere and environmental design are equally striking. [/b]
[h2] Gameplay & Mechanics [/h2]
The gameplay is largely similar to the previous game, but it introduces several welcome improvements. It is very engaging and fun to play. The weapon and elemental mechanics from the first game return and feel better than ever. Of course, the main weapons are mostly the same as before, but we also have new skills now. One of the best additions is the Draupnir Spear. Since they used the 2018 game as a base, adding a new weapon made total sense. Some players might have wanted even more new fresh gameplay elements, but I already enjoyed the weapons and gameplay, so I didn't mind it much.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3377802061
Speaking of combat, let's not forget this: we still don't have those crazy old-school God of War boss fights. It is better than the previous game, but we still don't see those massive fights we loved. I think one reason for this is that Kratos is much calmer now and doesn't fight unless he really has to.
[h2] Equipment [/h2]
Armor options and customization are done really well for a God of War game. Considering looks are not usually the main focus, they did a great job. Character skills and weapon upgrades are simple, effective, and offer enough depth.
[h2] Story, Characters & Emotional Depth [/h2]
In this game, instead of focusing mostly on Kratos, we see more of Atreus (Loki) growing up and finding himself. It also feels like it lays the groundwork for a future Atreus game. Side characters fit into the story very well, and I liked most of them. Because of the game's length, we get to talk to them and know them better.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3377275991
Also, I have to say the emotional and dramatic side went up a level. Seeing Kratos openly express grief and even shed tears adds an entirely new emotional layer to his character. Showing his feelings much more clearly, adds a whole new emotional depth to the story.
Lastly, having Freya with us in certain parts and using her skills was a nice surprise. The Atreus segments felt a bit boring at first, but they became much more enjoyable as the story progressed. They provide a refreshing change of pace and are important to the overall narrative.
[h2] Boss Fights, World & Visual Design [/h2]
The world design is simply outstanding. It looks so good that even walking around doing nothing feels amazing. Every realm is beautifully crafted and full of detail.
They also listened to feedback about bosses from the last game. There is a much better variety of boss fights, more enemy types, and the fights are harder. Still, I wished for giant boss fights like in the old Greek games, but these are good enough for now!
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3376535698
[h2] Side Content, Puzzles, Audio [/h2]
Side quests and activities are not boring filler content; doing them is actually fun. The puzzles are just right: not too easy, not too hard, and they fit the game's pacing perfectly. Combined with LEGENDARY music (you wouldn't expect less from this series), the game offers dozens of hours of meaningful content. On top of that, receiving a free DLC of this quality is incredible. I'm honestly surprised Sony decided to release a DLC of this quality for free.
[h2] Final [/h2]
No game is perfect, and there are still areas that could be improved, but they never take away from the overall experience. A perfect story, amazing performances, non-stop action, and smart additions make this a special game. Some people probably won't agree with me, but I think it depends on what you expect. God of War Ragnarök builds upon everything that made the 2018 game legendary and improves it in almost every way.
[h1] Yonderly Score | SSS+ (100) [/h1]
