This story contains spoilers for God of War games throughout the series, with the exception of “God of War Ragnarok”

In the pantheon of video game protagonists, Kratos is up there with Mario and Master Chief. The original “God of War” in 2005 introduced players to the ruthless Spartan warrior molded by savagery and haunted by his past. Subsequent titles throughout the 2000s and early 2010s saw Kratos carve a bloody path through Greek mythos. The narrative in these early games often took a back seat to the theatrical boss fights and brutal combat. At their best, these games portray a deeply troubled man