I enjoyed pretty much all the content available for Assassins Creed Odyssey (for the moment, I hear that more is coming, including a level cap increase, which I hate), and have finally picked up God of War again! I started it and beat Baldur last year, but then put it aside for other games. Well now I’m back at it and really enjoying it!
I’ve played other God of War games, but have yet to finish any, so I hope this one will be different. I got sick of God of War 3 when I struggled to get through a rhythm puzzle (and failed – my fingers aren’t that dexterous, which is why I was bad at the piano when I was a kid). So far, nothing like that in the latest God of War. Sure, some of the puzzles are challenging, and a couple have been downright frustrating, but I’ve succeeded so far.
I like the story in the game, particularly between Kratos and Atreus. I thought all the reviewers were exaggerating when they said Kratos calls him “boy” all the time, but they are not. It is a little much, but doesn’t distract too much. The dialog is well done and makes you believe you’re in a world of gods and monsters.
The scenery is amazing and beautiful. One of the most frustrating things about the game is that while it looks like an open world, the paths are very defined and there’s no going off them. In AC Odyssey, you can walk or climb pretty much anywhere, but here, a few stones will stop a god (Kratos) from walking somewhere. On the other hand, if you really need to get somewhere, there will be a puzzle or a path so you can get there.
The game has also kindled my interest in Norse mythology – if the stories related by the game are to be “believed,” Thor is not the nice guy of the Marvel movies, but a right bastard! In fact, almost all the gods are bad and Kratos is right to continue his god-killing ways. I look forward to see if we kill a few more gods than Thor’s son – he’s the only one I’ve killed so far.
The combat is great. I’m not the very best at using combos and special attacks, but this game requires a few. Just button mashing won’t get us through some of the fights. Some enemies are good at parrying and some need fists rather than the axe or other weapons (I’m avoiding spoiling that part). Atreus is very helpful in combat and his actions are well designed. You don’t have to worry about protecting him and he can draw aggro when fighting tough enemies to let you attack from behind or do a special attack.
Some of the fights are quite challenging, so you feel great accomplishment after getting through them. Some are just annoying, but the meaningful ones make up for it.
The progression system is pretty good, too. I’ve run into many enemies that are too much for me to handle, so I can come back later after levelling up and getting better gear. You can upgrade your weapons, armor, and skills, as well as those of Atreus. Events in the game give Atreus different bow/arrow options that are helpful for many puzzles.
God of War is great and well worth getting. If you don’t have a PS4, get one and this game (and maybe Spiderman too – I hear it’s good).