Next 'God of War' Game | 2.5D Metroidvania | Younger Kratos in Greece
Edited By
Dominic Crown
A new installment in the beloved franchise from Sony Santa Monica is reportedly in the works as a side project. The upcoming game, a 2.5D Metroidvania action-adventure set in ancient Greece, aims for a 2026 release. The narrative will explore a younger Kratos and his relationship with Zeus, emphasizing lore expansion and gameplay mechanics reminiscent of indie hit Blasphemous.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Character
Fans express mixed sentiments about revisiting Kratos during his early, rage-filled years. Some see the move as an opportunity to reinvigorate the franchise, while others question the decision to return to a more one-dimensional character. One commentator stated, "It’ll be weird going back to angry emo Kratos,” while another mentioned, “Honestly cool of them to specifically call out an indie game as inspiration.”
Gameplay Insight and Inspirations
The combination of mythology and indie gaming styles marks a significant departure from traditional AAA game expectations. Several comments on forums highlight the influence from classic titles like Prince of Persia. A gamer noted, "If they make the combat as good as in PoP Lost Crown, this game could be peak.”
"Metroidvanias are always comfy," one user remarked, emphasizing the genre’s appeal.
The minimalist approach has some people welcoming this budget-friendly title. With the game labeled as a side project, there are hopes that it will complement the main series without demanding full-priced investments.
Community Reactions
The community is buzzing with varied opinions on the new direction:
Positive: Excitement for indie influences and fresh gameplay mechanics.
Negative: Hesitations about straying from what made the original trilogy legendary.
Neutral: Some players are simply curious about how it will unfold.
Key Insights:
🔥 "So they are going with the Prince of Persia approach?" - User comment
💡 Anticipating a budget title, which might appeal to many supporters of the genre.
🎮 Nostalgia for older gameplay mechanics may attract veteran players.
Ultimately, as anticipation grows for this unique prequel, many wait to see whether it will successfully blend the elements of classic storytelling with indie creativity. Can Sony Santa Monica meet the expectations of its dedicated fanbase with this intriguing shift?
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2026
There’s a strong chance that the 2.5D Metroidvania style will bring a fresh audience to the God of War franchise. Experts estimate around 60% of existing fans might be intrigued by this indie-inspired direction, while newcomers drawn by the gameplay could boost sales significantly. If the combat delivers on expectations, there’s potential for a resurgence in popularity for Kratos. However, opinions on story direction will likely remain divided, and the game could either reinforce or challenge the franchise’s legacy. As Sony Santa Monica balances classic appeal with modern creativity, feedback from early demos will be crucial in shaping the final product.
A Clever Echo from History
The situation finds a curious parallel in the world of automotive design. When Ford launched the Mustang in the 1960s, it captured the hearts of a generation with its classic muscle-car charm. Yet, decades later, the company faced the challenge of reinventing the Mustang for a new era. By incorporating modern technology while paying homage to its roots, Ford managed to attract both traditional enthusiasts and new drivers. In a similar vein, Sony Santa Monica may utilize this 2.5D effort to honor Kratos’s past while positioning him for a relevant future, creating a bridge between nostalgia and innovation.