God of War Ragnarok’s Sequel Resisting a Big Time Jump Would Be Best

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As a seasoned movie critic who has witnessed the evolution of gaming narratives over decades, I must say that the potential future of the God of War franchise is as intriguing as the Norse mythology it so masterfully weaves. The ending of God of War Ragnarok leaves us with tantalizing possibilities, especially regarding Kratos and Atreus’s future roles.

After God of War Ragnarok, it’s not entirely clear what comes next, but there are numerous tantalizing prospects. The conclusion of God of War Ragnarok feels fulfilling and conclusive, yet it subtly hints at a few intriguing storylines such as Kratos potentially taking over the role of the Norse God of War from Tyr, or Atreus embarking on his own journey, possibly accompanied by Angrboda.

In God of War Ragnarok and its Valhalla DLC, there are hints that Kratos may take on a leadership role within the Norse pantheon, shifting from being a combatant to more of a strategist or high-ranking official, such as a Secretary of Defense in modern terms. This is a role he has previously held as the Greek God of War, but his new relationships and more peaceful demeanor may influence how he approaches this position. Meanwhile, Atreus embarks on a solo adventure filled with uncommon perils, which makes him a stronger candidate to be the protagonist in the next game. This potential change could lead to some narrative adjustments, like skipping forward in time, turning Atreus into a full-grown adult. This could create an intriguing storyline, but it would require some rearrangement of the plot.

19-year-old Sunny Suljic, portraying Atreus, has surpassed his character’s age in Ragnarok at the current moment, potentially hinting at a time jump in the storyline.

A Time Skip Could Benefit the Next God of War Game, But at a Cost

Exploring an adult Atreus’s journey might add depth and complexity to the God of War narrative. Ignoring for now the logistical problem of Suljic’s age, the series has already told two stories featuring Atreus as a child. In God of War Ragnarok, we saw his growth towards adulthood, but presenting him in his early twenties could offer an intriguing perspective. Players would witness how far he’s come and observe his development into a young man and god, making the experience even more rewarding.

Skipping forward a few years could help enrich the gameplay of the hypothetical “God of War” from the start. If Atreus has some prior solo experience when the game starts, Santa Monica Studios could give players a more developed combat environment right away, compared to what was available in “Ragnarok,” where the Atreus sections sometimes seemed repetitive, mirroring Kratos’ segments. However, any benefits from this time jump in terms of gameplay might be outweighed by the potential narrative disadvantages.

A Time Skip Could Mean Missing Out On Key Character Development for Atreus

As a passionate movie-goer, I can’t help but see the extraordinary potential in Atreus, a character crafted by Santa Monica Studios. This unique opportunity allows us to journey with him from his youth into maturity, exploring his formative years – something God of War never had the chance to do with Kratos, who was already an adult at the start of their tale. Atreus has already faced numerous challenges, but setting off on this adventure away from his father and homeland might just be his most significant step yet. It’s a journey I believe we, as spectators, should be privileged to witness firsthand.

In Norse mythology, I’m deeply intrigued by Loki’s romantic connection with Angrboda. This bond is subtly suggested in the epic tale of Ragnarok, where their interactions carry a youthful, heart-fluttering energy reminiscent of young love. If we find ourselves journeying alongside them, even if they don’t officially become a couple, their bond will undoubtedly grow stronger. It seems a shame to rush through these early stages of their relationship, given that the narrative in God of War skipped over Loki and Laufey’s relationship.

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2024-12-15 22:03