7 Must-Play Games Similar to God of War in 2025

Author: Carter May 01,2025

The 2018 release of God of War and its sequel, God of War Ragnarok, set a new standard for immersive, narrative-driven action-adventure games. Comparing any game to this series can lead to high expectations and potential disappointment. However, there are several titles that can satisfy fans looking for similar experiences. These games may not surpass the benchmark set by Sony Santa Monica Studio, but they effectively incorporate key elements such as design, gameplay, and narrative that resonate with God of War enthusiasts.

As we eagerly await updates on the future adventures of Kratos and Atreus, here are seven games that God of War fans might find appealing, whether drawn to the series for its intense third-person combat, rich world-building, compelling storytelling, or deep dive into Norse mythology.

For more God of War content, don't miss the 2023 God of War Ragnarok: Valhalla DLC.

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

Image credit: Ninja Theory
Developer: Ninja Theory | Publisher: Ninja Theory | Release Date: August 8, 2017 | Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC | Review: IGN's Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice review

For fans of God of War’s combat, Norse setting/mythological exploration, and/or story.

Senua's journey in Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice mirrors Kratos' in God of War (2018), as both embark on quests driven by loss and set against the backdrop of Norse mythology. Senua explores Ninja Theory’s version of Helheim, encountering familiar mythological figures like Garmr and Surtr, and even carries a talking severed head, much like Kratos. The game's third-person combat and continuous, one-shot cinematic approach enhance immersion, akin to God of War. Stellar performances by Melina Juergens as Senua and Christopher Judge as Kratos have both won accolades at The Game Awards. For more, check out the sequel, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2.

The Last of Us Parts 1 & 2

Image credit: Sony
Developer: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony | Release Date: Remastered Part 1: September 2, 2022; Part 2: June 19, 2020 | Platforms: Part 2: PS5, PS4; Part 1: PS5, PS4, PS3, PC | Review: IGN's The Last of Us Part 1 review and The Last of Us Part 2 review

For fans of God of War’s story, immersive world, and/or cinematic qualities.

While The Last of Us differs from God of War in setting and gameplay, both are exemplary of Sony's mastery in crafting story-rich, technically impressive third-person action-adventure games. Fans of the Kratos and Atreus dynamic may appreciate the similar parent-child relationship between Joel and Ellie, navigating a world fraught with danger.

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release Date: November 10, 2020 | Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4/5, Xbox One, PC, Stadia, Luna | Review: IGN’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla review

For fans of God of War’s Norse setting/mythological exploration, combat, and/or RPG mechanics.

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla immerses players in Norse mythology, featuring characters like Odin and Thor. Its combat system, focused on melee weapons, and extensive RPG elements like skill trees and crafting may appeal to God of War fans.

Explore more games like Assassin's Creed if you enjoyed Valhalla.

Jotun

Image credit: Thunder Lotus Games
Developer: Thunder Lotus Games | Publisher: Thunder Lotus Games | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Wii U, PC, Mac, Linux, Stadia | Review: IGN’s Jotun review

For fans of God of War’s Norse mythology and/or boss fights.

Jotun offers a unique visual take on Norse mythology with hand-drawn art, and its focus on exploration and challenging boss battles against Norse giants can resonate with God of War fans.

Rise of the Tomb Raider

Image credit: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios
Developer: Crystal Dynamics | Publisher: Square Enix/Microsoft Studios | Release Date: November 10, 2015 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC, Mac | Review: IGN’s Rise of the Tomb Raider review

For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design.

Rise of the Tomb Raider shares God of War's semi-open-world approach, offering Metroidvania-like areas that expand as you progress. Its third-person perspective and focus on exploration and combat will feel familiar to God of War players.

Discover our guide to playing the Tomb Raider games in order.

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order & Survivor

Image credit: EA
Developer: Respawn Entertainment | Publisher: EA | Release Date: Fallen Order: November 15, 2019; Survivor: April 28, 2023 | Platforms: Survivor: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC; Fallen Order: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Review: IGN’s Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order review and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor review

For fans of God of War’s semi-open-world design and/or combat.

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Survivor offer explorable hubs similar to God of War, with progression-based abilities unlocking new areas. Fans will appreciate the engaging melee combat and challenging boss fights, underpinned by a compelling story and immersive world.

Check out our picks for the best Star Wars games of all time.

The Walking Dead: Season 1


Developer: Telltale Games | Publisher: Telltale Games | Release Date: April 24, 2012 | Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Mobile | Review: IGN's The Walking Dead: The Game review

For fans of God of War’s story.

Telltale’s The Walking Dead focuses on narrative and emotional depth rather than action, offering a poignant story over five episodes. The relationship between Lee and Clem mirrors the parent-child dynamic of Kratos and Atreus, appealing to fans of God of War's storytelling.

What is the best game like God of War (2018)?

  • Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
  • Star Wars Jedi: Survivor & Fallen Order
  • The Last of Us Part 1 & 2
  • Assassin's Creed Valhalla
  • Jotun
  • Rise of the Tomb Raider
  • The Walking Dead: Season 1
  • Something else (let us know in the comments)

Don't agree with our picks? Share your favorite games like God of War in the comments!

If you're new to the God of War series, our breakdown of the series’ chronology will guide you on the best way to experience the games in order. Also, explore our comprehensive collection of every IGN God of War review.

Every God of War Review

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