God of War Ragnarök Review (PS5)

Prepare to embark on a mythic journey of unparalleled scale and grandeur with God of War: Ragnarok. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, this highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed God of War (2018) continues the epic saga of Kratos and Atreus, exploring Norse mythology and the impending cataclysmic event known as Ragnarok. With its breathtaking visuals, immersive storytelling, and visceral combat, God of War: Ragnarok delivers an experience that solidifies its place as a true masterpiece of gaming.

God of War: Ragnarok picks up where its predecessor left off, thrusting players back into the role of Kratos, the formidable Spartan warrior turned god. Joined by his son Atreus, the duo embarks on a perilous quest across the Nine Realms to prevent the onset of Ragnarok, the apocalyptic event that threatens to consume the realms and plunge them into chaos. The game masterfully weaves a tale of family, destiny, and the consequences of past actions, immersing players in a rich and emotionally charged narrative that explores the depths of Norse mythology.

From the moment you step into the Nine Realms, it becomes clear that God of War: Ragnarok is a visual marvel. The game’s stunning graphics and meticulous attention to detail create a world that feels alive and vibrant. Each realm is beautifully realized, showcasing diverse landscapes, awe-inspiring vistas, and breathtaking architecture. Whether you’re exploring the frozen tundras of Jotunheim or the mythical realms of Asgard and Vanaheim, the game constantly astounds with its visual fidelity and artistic craftsmanship.

The combat in God of War: Ragnarok is a visceral and adrenaline-fueled experience that surpasses its predecessor. As Kratos, players wield the iconic Leviathan Axe and unleash a flurry of devastating attacks upon hordes of mythological creatures and towering beasts. The combat system is intuitive yet deep, allowing for seamless weapon switching, combo chains, and the utilization of Atreus’ archery skills. Each encounter is a thrilling test of skill, requiring precise timing, strategic positioning, and a keen understanding of enemy patterns. The game rewards mastery with a sense of empowerment, as Kratos unleashes his godlike fury upon his foes.

One of the standout aspects of God of War: Ragnarok is the evolution of its characters and the relationships they forge. Kratos and Atreus’ bond deepens as they face new challenges and confront their own demons. The game delves into the complexities of fatherhood, exploring themes of legacy, identity, and the weight of responsibility. The writing and voice acting are top-notch, immersing players in a world where every conversation feels genuine and every emotional beat lands with impact. The characters’ growth and development throughout the game add an extra layer of depth to an already captivating narrative.

God of War: Ragnarok takes players on an epic journey through the vast and interconnected realms of Norse mythology. Each realm is teeming with hidden secrets, lore, and unique side quests waiting to be discovered. The game seamlessly blends exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, offering a balance of engaging gameplay mechanics. From encountering legendary deities and creatures of folklore to unraveling the mysteries of ancient ruins, the world of God of War: Ragnarok is a captivating tapestry of myth and legend.

God of War: Ragnarok pushes the boundaries of technical excellence on the PlayStation 5. The game harnesses the console’s power to deliver smooth and fluid gameplay, stunning visual fidelity, and lightning-fast loading times. The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers further enhance the immersion, making every strike of the axe and every encounter feel more tangible and visceral.

Conclusion

God of War: Ragnarok is a triumph of game design, combining breathtaking visuals, a captivating narrative, and exhilarating combat to create an unforgettable gaming experience. Santa Monica Studio has crafted a sequel that not only lives up to the legacy of its predecessor but exceeds expectations in every way. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer to the world of Kratos, God of War: Ragnarok is a must-play title that stands as a shining example of what video games can achieve as an art form. Prepare to embark on an odyssey of epic proportions and witness the clash of gods and the dawn of Ragnarok.

Being a PlayStation Exclusive (for now), God of War: Ragnarok was released on 9 November 2022 globally. At the time of posting this review, the physical version of the game is available from KOODOO at R1,099.00 while the digital version is available for R1,369.00 through PSN.