Do you need to be familiar with previous God of War games?
No. However, I think knowing exactly who Kratos is and what he’s done probably enhanced my appreciation for how he has changed. But if you’ve never played a God of War game before, this one does a good job communicating what you need to know.
Does it still feel like God of War?
That really depends on your personal definition. If you think a God of War game includes fun combat, a gorgeous world, and big moments, then yes! If you think a God of War game needs to deliver those things in the same way previous entries did, then no.
Does the close camera detract from big moments?
No, I think it actually enhances them. However, there is one particular kind of iconic God of War moment you don’t really get anymore: When Kratos is running along, and suddenly the camera zooms out and you see how tiny Kratos is compared to whatever gargantuan creature/structure he is on. That’s not a complaint, though. Just something different.
Does it feel like one big escort mission?
No. In fact, Atreus is extremely useful in battle, to the point that he almost feels like another weapon you’re controlling. And he isn’t a liability at all; he takes care of himself, and even though he can get grabbed or knocked out, he is generally available and ready to attack when you need him. He only got incapacitated once during my entire playthrough.
Has the blood and gore been toned down?
No.
How long is the campaign?
It took me about 30 hours to finish the story (doing a lot of optional stuff along the way), but I probably spent another 15 hours after that cleaning up tasks, tackling other challenges, and chasing trophies.
. Really tempted to pay the extra 900 bucks just to play it midnight on 20th.
