God of War has always captivated audiences with its compelling narrative, but the recent installments have elevated the storytelling by delving into a more introspective and emotional portrayal of Kratos' mythological odyssey. The shift in tone and depth in 2018's God of War and its sequel God of War Ragnarok not only seamlessly incorporated a new mythos and setting but also offered a nuanced exploration of the protagonist.

The Norse journey in God of War has been characterized by its reflective storytelling. While the games retain their signature intensity in combat, the focus has shifted from gratuitous violence to a more poignant narrative. Kratos, now a father and haunted by his past deeds including the loss of his daughter and the deaths of his family, embarks on a path of self-examination, ultimately leading him towards reconciliation and empathy. The remarkable Valhalla DLC in Ragnarok symbolizes Kratos coming to terms with his past, hinting at a future free from the burdens of guilt.

Kratos' Transition Beyond Self-Doubt

The Impactful Finale of God of War Ragnarok's Valhalla DLC

While Kratos may not be completely absolved of his past by the conclusion of Valhalla, he has seemingly resolved his internal conflict of guilt and introspection across the two games. The overarching theme of striving for redemption and a brighter tomorrow drives his character evolution, with his past guilt serving as a catalyst for growth rather than a definitive endpoint.

Valhalla signifies Kratos' transformation into a more empowered and self-aware deity. As the Norse God of War, his decisions moving forward should be informed by a newfound clarity about his history and emotions. Unlike in God of War 2018, where he was driven by evading his past, Kratos' future actions should stem from a place of resolve and purpose, setting the stage for his continued development.

Embracing Fresh Narratives in God of War

The potential transition to Atreus as the central figure in the upcoming God of War installment presents an exciting opportunity for narrative innovation. By passing the torch to Atreus, the franchise can explore uncharted storytelling avenues, shifting the focus towards the future rather than dwelling on the past. As a burgeoning deity forging his own path, Atreus' journey embodies progress and self-determination, offering a narrative canvas ripe with possibilities. Any involvement of Kratos in the narrative should complement Atreus' arc thematically, ushering in a new era for the franchise.

While Kratos may still play a role in the series, his character arc could culminate in a symbolic retirement, driven by a desire to pave the way for a brighter tomorrow rather than being shackled by remorse. This narrative evolution could breathe new life into the God of War universe, ushering in a fresh era of storytelling and character exploration.