God of War’s Biggest Plot Twist Should Lead to More in Ragnarok’s Sequel

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God of War's Biggest Plot Twist Should Lead to More in Ragnarok's Sequel

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that God of War Ragnarok has left me absolutely spellbound. The revelation at the end of the previous game that Atreus is none other than Loki, trickster god of Norse mythology, was a jaw-dropping moment and it’s clear that this narrative thread still has a lot to unravel.

Spoilers ahead for 2018’s
God of War
.

Highlights

  • God of War reveals Atreus is Loki, sparking new narrative possibilities & tying into Norse mythology lore that Ragnarok didn’t fully capitalize on.
  • A Ragnarok sequel may further explore Atreus’ transformation into Loki, involving Angrboda & his shapeshifting abilities.
  • Atreus’ development may lead him down a darker path, aligning more with the mischievous nature of the mythical Loki.

2018’s God of War concluded with a resounding climax, sparking an unquenchable thirst for more in me, the fan. Fortunately, God of War Ragnarok delivers on that narrative expectation, offering a story that is as fulfilling as it is surprising. However, I believe there’s still more to unpack from God of War’s shocking ending twist.

Following the lengthy adventure of Kratos and Atreus in God of War (2018), it’s disclosed through a prophecy that Atreus is none other than Loki from Norse legends. Though the characters within the game initially find this confusing, given their existence in Norse mythology, players with some familiarity with Norse tales (or even the Marvel Cinematic Universe) grasp how momentous this disclosure is straightaway. This revelation plays a crucial role in the narrative of Ragnarok, as Loki’s true identity attracts Odin’s pursuit and ultimately triggers Ragnarok. Moreover, it shapes his connection with Angrboda, another Giant who addresses him as Loki instead of Atreus.

In the realm of Norse folklore, beings labeled as Giants aren’t always towering in size, although they might exhibit such stature on occasion. These entities share similarities with fictional races found in myth, such as Elves and Dwarves.

Future God of War Games May Flesh Out Atreus’ Alter Ego

Atreus Probably Isn’t Done Being ‘Loki’

It’s clear that the portrayal of Loki in the game God of War Ragnarok deviates from traditional Norse mythology. Without even needing to play the game, you can grasp that the Loki from Norse tales isn’t the son of the minor Greek deity Kratos or known by the name Atreus. Instead, the game creatively reinterprets Norse mythology, using this departure to enrich its storyline about defying destiny and forging one’s own unique journey. This is evident in instances like Kratos killing Heimdall, who is prophesied to kill Loki in the original tales, demonstrating the game’s bold rejection of predetermined fate.

Loki’s tale doesn’t stop at his childhood years. Growing up, he becomes known as the ‘Trickster God,’ and has children who also become significant figures in mythical tales. With God of War now deeply connected to Norse mythology given one of its main characters is a Norse deity, the series must grapple with Loki’s established history, choosing whether to stick to it or twist it even more.

How Atreus Could Continue Down the Loki Path

It seems that Atreus’ evolution into the character of Loki from Norse mythology might be most evident through his connection with Angrboda. Notably, Angrboda identifies Atreus as Loki, indicating a strong tie to his mythical origins and foretold events. In Norse lore, Loki and Angrboda have three offspring, including Hela, the sovereign of Helheim. Given that it’s plausible for Angrboda to accompany Atreus on his individual adventure, there’s potential for a future game that features their children. This would allow Atreus to assume a more Loki-esque role and contribute to either creating or reshaping the roles of these characters within the Norse pantheon.

An alternative approach might be for Atreus to exhibit characteristics more typical of the Trickster God earlier on, as Kratos’ influence wanes, he could veer towards a darker, self-centered path, becoming a pawn of destiny again and adding depth to his character. It’s likely that Atreus’ shape-shifting skills will develop further, potentially reaching the level of Loki, who can transform into virtually any creature or person at will. This transformation could introduce numerous humorous plot points, thereby making Atreus more like his Loki-like persona.

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2024-08-10 19:03