These GPUs will Help You Defeat Thor in God of War Ragnarok PC

As a seasoned gaming enthusiast who’s seen his fair share of graphics card battles, let me weigh in on the best GPU for God of War Ragnarök.

God of War Ragnarök, previously exclusive to PlayStation gamers, is now accessible for PC users as well, offering another chance for fans to immerse themselves in this captivating game. The new version boasts enhancements over the original console edition, such as compatibility with ultrawide monitors, variable frame rates, super sampling support, and more. Yet, it should be noted that it requires a considerable amount of VRAM based on your desired resolution, necessitating a robust GPU capable of delivering a stable gaming performance.

Initially launched for both PS5 and PS4 in November 2022, this game quickly gained favor among both hardcore fans and casual gamers due to its engaging narrative. The story continues the saga from the 2018 God of War, with Kratos and his son Atreus on a mission to prevent Ragnarok, the prophesied end of the world for gods and men. Characters like Thor, Tyr, and Odin, well-known figures in Norse mythology, also make an appearance. To truly appreciate the stunning beauty of the nine realms and unravel their secrets, it’s best to play at a steady 60 FPS and at least 1440p resolution.

To start, let me share the minimum and suggested system requirements for running God of War Ragnarök on your PC before discussing top-tier GPUs:

Minimum Requirements:

OS: Windows 10 64-bit

Processor: Intel i5-4670k or AMD Ryzen 3 1200

Memory: 8 GB RAM

Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1060 (6GB) or AMD RX 5500 XT (8GB) or Intel Arc A750

DirectX: Version 12

Storage: 190 GB available space

Additional Notes: Windows version 2004 2020-05-27 19041. 6GB GPU is required

Recommended Requirements:

OS: Windows 10 64-bit

Processor: Intel i5-8600 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Memory: 16 GB RAM

Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 2060 Super or AMD RX 5700 or Intel Arc A770

DirectX: Version 12

Storage: 190 GB available space

Additional Notes: Windows version 2004 2020-05-27 19041. 6GB GPU is required

Game Rant’s 2024 Picks for the Best GPU for God of War Ragnarok

The Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti Super shows significant performance improvements over the base RTX 4070, but the difference in performance is not as much with the RTX 4070 Super. That being said, the slight increase in power that the RTX 4070 Ti Super has, makes it the perfect GPU to experience God of War Ragnarök at 4K 60 FPS. The GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 4070 Ti SUPER WINDFORCE MAX OC is the highest clocked RTX 4070 Ti Super, boasting a boost clock speed of up to 2655 MHz.

GIGABYTE’s package includes the WINDOFRCE cooling system from the company, featuring three 100mm fans, nine composite copper heat pipes, a substantial copper plate, and multiple software enhancements for peak performance under heavy usage. These fans rotate in opposite directions to boost airflow, leading to more efficient heat dispersal. The GPU is equipped with 16GB of GDDR6X VRAM, allowing you to crank up the settings at 4K resolution while still leaving some room for adjustments.

To operate this GPU, you’ll require a 16-pin connector. Ensure your power supply unit (PSU) is at least 750W in capacity. The RTX 4070 Ti Super is a graphics card that demands substantial power, sporting a robust cooler, but without any RGB illumination. It boasts an all-black front plate and a metal backplate equipped with vents for the extended heatsink. As an added precaution, GIGABYTE includes an anti-sag bracket with the GPU to prevent it from drooping over time.

Cost-conscious gamers aren’t primarily concerned with achieving the highest resolution and frame rate. Fortunately, the ASUS Dual Radeon RX 7700 XT OC Edition provides a good balance between cost and performance. With this GPU, you can play God of War Ragnarök at 1440p, boosted by AMD’s FSR or FidelityFX Super Resolution to maintain frames per second above 60.

The ASUS graphics card boasts a maximum overclock speed of 2599 MHz, coupled with a twin-fan cooling system for efficient heat management. This cooling system utilizes Axial-tech fans that intensify downward airflow for optimal heat dissipation. During light usage, these fans remain idle, ensuring silent operation. Moreover, the card includes a dual-BIOS setup, offering both performance and quiet modes. Despite their differences in fan behavior, both modes deliver the same top-tier performance; the quiet mode features a more relaxed fan curve to minimize noise.

The black front panel harmonizes well with the aluminum rear panel, providing structural stability without impeding air circulation. The ASUS Dual Radeon RX 7700 XT OC Edition is a relatively space-saving graphics card, featuring a 2.5-slot design. It boasts 12GB of GDDR6 VRAM, which should suffice for playing God of War Ragnarök. To power this GPU, you’ll require a minimum 750W Power Supply Unit (PSU) with two accessible 8-pin connectors.

As a gaming enthusiast, I’d highly recommend opting for the MSI GeForce RTX 4070 VENTUS 3X 12G OC for an optimal experience with God of War Ragnarök. Priced under $600, this graphics card strikes a fantastic balance between cost and performance. It effortlessly runs the game at a smooth 1440p resolution, and with the assistance of DLSS and Frame Generation (FG), you can even elevate your gaming to 4K. The MSI GeForce RTX 4070 VENTUS 3X 12G OC prioritizes key aspects like cooling efficiency, clock speeds, and power consumption, making it a reliable choice without the added expense of RGB lighting.

You’ll receive three TORX FAN 4.0 cooling fans designed to direct airflow towards the GPU via the heatsink, utilizing deflectors for increased surface area. These fans feature a Zero Frozr function, meaning they only activate under specific load conditions. Also included is a metal backplate for enhanced structural support.

As its name implies, the MSI GeForce RTX 4070 VENTUS 3X 12G OC includes 12GB of GDDR6X VRAM and offers a boost clock speed of 2505 MHz. This speed can be maximized even more with the Extreme Performance mode available through the MSI Center application. It’s important to mention that this GPU sports a silver and black faceplate, which could make it more noticeable when installed, depending on its mounting location.

If you’re willing to spend a little extra, consider opting for the RTX 4070 Super. However, to surpass the 60 FPS at 4K, you’ll still need to employ DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and FG (Frame Generation).

For an extraordinary gaming adventure, particularly in God of War Ragnarök, investing around $2000 will secure you the top-tier RTX 4090, guaranteeing a flawless gaming experience across all titles. However, if you’re seeking a more budget-friendly yet powerful option for a smooth 4K performance at over 60 frames per second, the ASUS TUF Gaming NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 SUPER OC Edition is your pick. This RTX 4080 Super from ASUS boasts the highest clock speed and robust construction, making it a strong contender as the best in its class.

The triple-fan cooling system includes three alternate spinning fans that only start spinning when temperatures go above 55 degrees Celsius. The fans, in combination with a massive heatsink and a compact PCB, make this a 3.65 slot GPU, so make sure your PC case has sufficient space for it. This beefy cooling system allows the boost clock speeds to reach 2640 MHz in OC mode and, thanks to the ample 16GB GDDR6X VRAM, you can easily max out the settings in God of War Ragnarök at 4K while maintaining a constant 60+ FPS. With DLSS enabled, you can cross the 100 FPS mark (depending on the CPU paired with it).

Regarding construction, ASUS employs an automated method to maintain uniform functionality and quality. It incorporates military-grade capacitors, reinforced with a metal frame, and a sturdy backplate for added durability. The graphics card comes equipped with a holder, preventing the GPU from drooping after prolonged use. This model features limited RGB lighting, emphasizing top-tier performance over elaborate visual effects.

Team Red fans looking for a GPU upgrade should consider the GIGABYTE Gaming Radeon RX 7900 XT 20GB for its competitively high clock speeds and a more efficient cooling system. The GPU features 20GB of GDDR6 VRAM and a boost clock speed of up to 2535 MHz, so you can expect excellent 1440p performance and even 4K with the help of FSR and AFMF (AMD Fluid Motion Frames).

Here in this setup, you’ll find the WINDFORCE cooling system operating efficiently. It includes three 100mm fans that rotate alternately, nine composite copper heat pipes, a spacious vapor chamber, and several software adjustments. At its rear, there’s a metallic backplate with an opening for airflow. To maximize performance, GIGABYTE has limited the RGB lighting to just the top logo, which emits light through it.

Among its other features are a dual BIOS switch, power supply issue indicators through LED lights, and an anti-sag support bracket. Contrary to expectations, it only necessitates two 8-pin connectors for power despite the suggested 800W power supply unit. Additionally, you’ll find modern connectivity options such as DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1.

Experience cutting-edge performance with the GIGABYTE Gaming Radeon RX 7900 XT 20GB, backed by the latest AMD technologies. If your AMD CPU is compatible, you’ll enjoy enhanced performance thanks to AMD Smart Technology.

When considering an Intel GPU for gaming, be aware that there may be certain trade-offs involved. For instance, in the case of God of War Ragnarök, the Arc A770 is a suitable option for 1080p graphics, but if you aim for higher resolutions, you might need to adjust some game settings. However, it’s good to know that the game supports Intel’s XeSS technology, which is similar to AI-based super sampling, allowing you to offset the drop in frames per second when moving to higher resolutions.

The ASRock Phantom Gaming Arc A770 boasts 16GB of GDDR6 VRAM, operating at a speed of 2200 MHz. It’s equipped with three cooling fans to keep the GPU running smoothly, and these fans only activate when the GPU reaches a specific load level thanks to its 0 dB Silent Cooling mode. The central fan includes RGB illumination, and there’s an RGB logo at the top too. You can customize the intensity of these lights using the Polychrome Sync software.

To power this GPU, you need two 8-pin connectors, and it is recommended to use a 700W PSU at the least. You also get three DisplayPort 2.0 ports and one HDMI 2.1 port. Despite the beefy cooling system, this GPU takes up 2.8 slots in the case, but it is a full-size card, so make sure it is compatible with your case before you make the purchase.

Finding the Best GPU for God of War Ragnarok

There are a few factors to consider before you purchase a new GPU, such as:

Brand

To achieve optimal gameplay for God of War Ragnarök, consider the Intel Arc A770 GPU as a starting point. Depending on your preferred screen resolution, any combination from Nvidia, AMD, or Intel can offer reliable performance. However, for resolutions beyond 1080p, we suggest focusing on a higher-tier card like the Nvidia RTX 4070 or superior models, or the AMD Radeon RX 7700 XT and its more advanced counterparts.

Resolution

In the game “God of War Ragnarök,” designed as a single-player, story-driven experience, aiming for a smooth 60 frames per second (FPS) is recommended. It’s more important to focus on achieving higher resolutions than maintaining a high FPS rate. For instance, if you want to play at 1440p, there are numerous options available from both Nvidia and AMD. If you’re aiming for 4K gaming, you’ll need a graphics card like the RTX 4070 Ti Super or one that is even more powerful. You might also need to utilize super sampling technologies provided by either AMD or Nvidia for an optimal experience.

Cooling Technology

Different brands employ distinct cooling techniques to ensure their GPUs operate efficiently under heavy usage. For instance, you might come across models with two fans such as the ASUS Dual Radeon RX 7700 XT OC Edition, or ones with three fans like many others on the list. Manufacturers like GIGABYTE also incorporate vapor chambers for enhanced cooling. However, keep in mind that these cooling solutions may affect the card’s size, so ensure you have adequate clearance.

FAQ

Q: Is God of War Ragnarök on Steam Deck?

Yes, God of War Ragnarök is playable on the Steam Deck, and it runs well.

Q: Is God of War Ragnarök available for PC?

Yes, God of War Ragnarök launched on PC on September 19, 2024.

2024-09-27 19:06