God of War 4 is a third-person action-adventure video game developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It was released for the PlayStation 4 console in April 2018 and is the eighth installment in the God of War series.
The game received widespread critical acclaim for it’s narrative, graphics, gameplay mechanics and voice acting. It won numerous awards including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2018.
Table Of Contents
Plot
The plot of God of War 4, also known as simply God of War is centered around Kratos. A former Spartan warrior who is now living in the realm of Norse gods with his young son Atreus. The story takes place many years after the events of the previous God of War games and Kratos is now struggling to come to terms with his past and his role as a father.
The game begins with the death of Kratos’ wife, Faye and her final wish for Kratos and Atreus to spread her ashes at the highest peak in the realms. The journey takes them through the dangerous and mystical world of Norse mythology, as they battle monsters, gods and other creatures from legend.
The central conflict of the story revolves around Kratos’ past and his attempts to reconcile with his role as a violent warrior. This is explored through his relationship with Atreus. Who is more sensitive and empathetic than Kratos. The two characters clash throughout the game with Atreus struggling to understand why his father is so cold and distant.
Gameplay
Kratos is now accompanied by his son Atreus, who assists him in combat and puzzle-solving. Atreus can be controlled by the player using a dedicated button. The game also features a crafting system, where players can use resources to upgrade their weapons and armor.
Combat in God of War 4 is more tactical than in the previous games. Kratos has a new weapon called the Leviathan Axe. He can throw at enemies and recall to his hand. He can also use bare-handed attacks, shield attacks and the Rage of the Titans ability to defeat his foes.
The game also has an immersive open-world environment and players can explore different areas and complete side quests. There are also optional areas that can be unlocked by solving puzzles and completing challenges.
GOD OF WAR 4 Features
A New Setting
God of War 4 departs from the previous games’ setting of ancient Greece and instead takes place in Norse mythology. Players take control of Kratos, the former Greek god of war, as he navigates a new world with his son, Atreus.
Puzzle Solving
The game also features puzzle-solving elements, requiring players to use logic and strategy to progress through the game’s levels.
A New Combat System
The game introduces a new over-the-shoulder camera perspective and a revamped combat system that focuses on strategic axe combat and hand-to-hand combat mechanics. Players can also perform special attacks and combos, making combat more fluid and immersive.
Emotional Storytelling
Unlike the previous games in the series, God of War 4 has a more emotional and character-driven story, exploring the relationship between Kratos and Atreus as they embark on a journey to scatter Kratos’ wife’s ashes.
RPG Elements
God of War 4 incorporates RPG elements, such as a skill tree system. It allows players to unlock new abilities and upgrades for Kratos and Atreus.
Stunning Visuals
God of War 4 boasts stunning visuals, with detailed character models and environments that bring the world of Norse mythology to life.
Rating And Reviews
God of War 4 has received critical acclaim and high ratings from both fans and critics. It currently holds a 94/100 score on Metacritic, a popular review aggregator website.
The game’s stunning visuals, engaging story and immersive gameplay mechanics have been praised by critics. The revamped combat system has been highly praised. As it offers a fresh take on the classic hack-and-slash gameplay of the previous games in the series. The addition of the “Leviathan Axe” has been highly praised for it’s unique combat mechanics and satisfying gameplay.
The game’s storyline has also received high praise for it’s emotional depth and strong character development. The father-son relationship between Kratos and Atreus is one of the game’s standout features. With many reviewers highlighting the powerful emotional moments between the two characters.
Pros And Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Stunning graphics and visuals that create a highly immersive and realistic environment. | The removal of some of the more over-the-top and brutal features of previous games in the series may disappoint fans who enjoyed them. |
| An engaging storyline that reboots the series and focuses on a more mature and complex character development of Kratos and his son Atreus. | Some players may find the game’s pace slow in comparison to previous titles in the series. |
| The addition of RPG elements, such as skill trees and crafting, that add more depth and customization to the gameplay. | The game can be challenging, which may not be suitable for casual players or those new to the series. |
| A combat system that is challenging, strategic and satisfying. | The open-world aspect may feel overwhelming and lacking in direction for some players. |
| A wide variety of enemies and bosses that each require a unique approach to defeat. | The lack of enemy variety can make some parts of the game feel repetitive. |
| A large and open world to explore, filled with secrets and side quests. | |
| An emotional and memorable soundtrack that enhances the overall experience. |
Conclusion
God of War 4 is a highly acclaimed and successful video game that has impressed both fans of the series and newcomers. It features an engaging story, beautiful graphics and exciting gameplay that will keep players entertained for hours. With it’s new Norse mythology setting, revamped combat system and emotional father-son narrative. God of War 4 has earned it’s place as one of the best games of the year. While there are some minor issues with the game’s pacing and level design. They are far outweighed by the game’s strengths. Whether you’re a fan of the series or just looking for a great action game, God of War 4 is definitely worth playing.
