The 2018 release of *God of War* and its sequel, *God of War Ragnarok*, have set a high standard for immersive, narrative-driven action-adventure games. While comparing any game to *God of War* might set expectations too high, there are several titles that capture similar elements in design, gameplay, and atmosphere. These games may not surpass the achievements of Sony Santa Monica Studio, but they successfully incorporate key features that fans of the *God of War* series will appreciate. As we eagerly await further developments in the saga of Kratos and Atreus, here are seven games that should appeal to *God of War* enthusiasts, whether you're drawn to its intense third-person combat, rich world design, engaging storytelling, or exploration of Norse mythology.
For those looking for more adventures with Kratos, don't miss out on the 2023 *God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla DLC*.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Image credit: Ninja Theory
Developer: Ninja Theory | Publisher: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 8, 2017 | Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC | Review: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice review
For fans of God of War’s combat, Norse setting/mythological exploration, and/or story.
Much like Kratos in *God of War* (2018), Senua's journey in *Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice* is driven by the loss of a loved one, set against the backdrop of a Norse mythology-filled world. Her path leads her to Ninja Theory's take on Helheim, a realm familiar to *God of War* players, featuring characters like Garmr and Surtr. Echoing Kratos, Senua also carries a talking severed head, enhancing the personal connection to her quest.
The game's combat mirrors *God of War*'s visceral third-person style, viewed from an over-the-shoulder perspective. Both titles also utilize a continuous, one-shot cinematic technique to heighten immersion. The narrative depth in *Hellblade* is complemented by Melina Juergens' award-winning performance as Senua, akin to Christopher Judge's acclaimed portrayal of Kratos.
For more adventures with Senua, check out the sequel, *Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2*.
The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2
Image credit: Sony
Developer: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony | Release Date: Remastered Part 1: September 2, 2022; Part 2: June 19, 2020 | Platforms: Part 2: PS5, PS4; Part 1: PS5, PS4, PS3, PC | Review: IGN's The Last of Us Part 1 review and The Last of Us Part 2 review
For fans of God of War’s story, immersive world, and/or cinematic qualities.
While *The Last of Us* differs in setting and gameplay from *God of War*, both are shining examples of Sony's expertise in crafting narrative-rich, technically impressive third-person action-adventure games. The compelling stories of both series are driven by complex characters and their emotionally charged relationships. Fans of Kratos and Atreus's father-son dynamic will appreciate the similar bond between Joel and Ellie, where a seasoned protector guides a sharp-witted youth through a treacherous world.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release Date: November 10, 2020 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4/5, Xbox One, PC, Stadia, Luna | Review: IGN’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla review
For fans of God of War’s Norse setting/mythological exploration, combat, and/or RPG mechanics.
*Assassin’s Creed Valhalla* transports players to Northern Europe and delves into Norse mythology, featuring familiar deities like Odin, Loki, Thor, Freya/Freyja, and Tyr. The game's melee-focused combat will resonate with *God of War* fans, while its robust RPG elements, including a skill tree, loot system, and various side activities, offer a deeper experience for those who enjoy the RPG aspects of *God of War*.
If you enjoyed *Valhalla*, explore more games like Assassin's Creed.
Jotun
Image credit: Thunder Lotus Games
Developer: Thunder Lotus Games | Publisher: Thunder Lotus Games | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Wii U, PC, Mac, Linus, Stadia | Review: IGN’s Jotun review
For fans of God of War’s Norse mythology and/or boss fights.
*Jotun* presents Norse mythology through beautifully hand-drawn visuals, featuring characters like Jormungar, Thor, Freya, Mimir, and Odin. Unlike the fast-paced *God of War*, *Jotun* focuses more on exploration and puzzle-solving but delivers intense, well-crafted boss battles against massive Norse giants.
Rise of the Tomb Raider
Image credit: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios
Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Publisher: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios | Release Date: November 10, 2015 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, Mac | Review: IGN’s Rise of the Tomb Raider review
For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design.
*Rise of the Tomb Raider* mirrors *God of War*'s semi-open-world approach, featuring Metroidvania-style areas that expand as you progress. While it emphasizes ranged combat, its third-person perspective and focus on exploration and puzzles will feel familiar to *God of War* fans. The snowy environments and character-driven narrative further enhance the connection.
For more on the series, see our guide to playing the Tomb Raider games in order.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order & Survivor
Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: Fallen Order: November 15, 2019; Survivor: April 28, 2023 | Platforms: Survivor: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC; Fallen Order: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Review: IGN’s Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order review and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor review
For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design and/or combat.
The *Star Wars Jedi* series offers semi-open-world hubs similar to *God of War*, with areas unlocked through progression-based abilities. Fans will appreciate the satisfying melee combat and challenging boss fights, along with the engaging gameplay, immersive world, and compelling story, hallmarks of both series. This shared DNA is no surprise, given that both games were directed by Stig Asmussen, who previously worked on *God of War 3*.
For more Star Wars gaming, check out our picks for the best Star Wars games of all time.
The Walking Dead: Season 1
Developer: Telltale Games | Publisher: Telltale Games | Release Date: April 24, 2012 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Mobile | Review: IGN's The Walking Dead: The Game review
For fans of God of War’s story.
*The Walking Dead: Season 1* offers a deeply emotional narrative experience through a choice-based, point-and-click adventure format. While the gameplay mechanics differ vastly from *God of War*, the story's emotional impact and character development are comparable. Over five episodes, you guide Lee, a man seeking redemption, as he protects and mentors young Clementine, echoing the protective, fatherly bond seen in *God of War*.
Don't agree with our picks? Share your favorite games like *God of War* in the comments!
If you're new to the *God of War* series, check out our breakdown of the series' chronology to find the best way to play the *God of War* games in order, or explore our roundup of every IGN *God of War* review.
Every God of War Review
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