Should I Play God Of War Before Ragnarok?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You enjoy deep narrative arcs and want to experience Kratos’ evolution from a vengeful god to a reluctant father before seeing the stakes rise in Ragnarok.
• Good fit: You have spare time and prefer a linear, story‑driven playthrough; the 2018 game’s 20‑hour length fits well into a weekend or a short break.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: Your primary goal is fast‑paced combat and you’re short on time; playing the earlier title may feel like a delay rather than an enhancement.
• Warning sign: You’re already familiar with the 2018 story through spoilers, walkthroughs, or extensive summaries, and the replay value feels low for you.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stronger emotional payoff – Understanding Kratos and Atreus’s bond from the beginning makes the sacrifices in Ragnarok feel more resonant.
• Gameplay foundation – The combat system, skill trees, and exploration mechanics introduced in 2018 are refined but still core to Ragnarok; playing first reduces learning curve.

Cons

• Time investment – Adding another 20‑hour game may delay your ability to play Ragnarok, especially if you have limited gaming windows.
• Potential narrative redundancy – Some players feel the 2018 story is heavily recapped in Ragnarok’s opening, making the earlier game feel repetitive.

Decision Checklist

• Do I have at least 15‑20 hours free in the next few weeks to finish the 2018 title before Ragnarok releases?
• Am I more interested in story depth than getting straight into new combat mechanics and higher‑level content?
• Will skipping the first game reduce my enjoyment of character motivations, or am I comfortable with a brief refresher?

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re unsure about a full playthrough, you could watch a concise recap video, read a plot summary, or play a “Story Mode” cheat that skips most combat. Another option is to start Ragnarok and pause after the opening cutscene to read a focused review of the 2018 plot, then decide whether to go back and play it.

Final Recommendation

For players who value narrative continuity, have the time, and enjoy mastering the original combat system, playing God of War (2018) first is the recommended path. If your schedule is tight, you’re primarily after new gameplay, or you’ve already absorbed the story elsewhere, it’s reasonable to jump straight into Ragnarok and use a recap as needed. As always, consider your own gaming habits and, for any high‑stakes decisions about time management or spending, consult a personal schedule planner or financial advisor.