Over half a year after Kratos stopped the end of the world and God of War: Ragnarok gave Elden Ring a good run for its money for the Game of the Year award, Sony Santa Monica is already busy working on a next installment, if a recent job listing is to be believed.
The internet has been busy speculating since earlier this week when a listing popped up from the studio behind God of War. The vacancy? A Combat Designer for a “new unannounced title.” The crux of the speculation lies in the specific requirements outlined for the role: “Must have knowledge of God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarök (2022) and be able to speak in depth about the combat systems, mechanics, and enemies.”
Drawing a line through the frost-covered landscapes of the Norse saga, we recall that God of War Ragnaror was an undeniable success both critically and commercially. The game achieved an impressive 94 on Metacritic, with numerous reviews echoing the sentiment that it was a triumphant installment. With such a remarkable track record, the idea that Santa Monica Studio might be diving back into the world of God of War isn’t far-fetched.
Yet, the world of Kratos is expansive. The ending of Ragnarok may have bid farewell to the likes of Odin and Thor, but it left many doors ajar. Is it possible we could witness Kratos’ ventures into the realms of Egyptian or Japanese deities? Or perhaps an entire spin-off focused on Atreus, now bearing the mantle of Loki?
Considering Kratos’ iconic combat style, defined by his chain blades and, more recently, his ax, what might Atreus’ own signature combat technique be? Fans have pondered on this, suggesting the possibility of him relying on animal transformations to keep the gameplay distinctive.
Notably, while the foundation of the God of War franchise has always been its gripping narrative, its combat mechanics are equally paramount. Could it be that the requirement for knowledge of the past games’ combat systems implies that a new game with similar combat is in development? Or, taking a leap of faith, might it hint at a continuation of the God of War saga?
It’s an open secret that Santa Monica Studio is working on other projects, particularly, a sci-fi game, so it’s possible that Santa Monica Studio will use a similar combat system but for a new venture.
Not to mention, this isn’t the first time this kind of listing has been spotted either. So, you can’t discount the fact a mere job listing, even with a specific mention of the God of War series, doesn’t guarantee a new chapter in Kratos and Atreus’ journey. But the community’s passionate response signifies a deeper longing – a collective hope that the father and son will once again set out on a legendary quest, further engraving their legacy.
Santa Monica Studio’s next step remains shrouded in mystery. While the realms of God of War are rife with gods, giants, and mythical beasts, the gaming community waits for a beacon of clarity.
Whether we’re about to embark on a new adventure with Kratos, explore the untapped potential of Atreus, or set sail to an entirely different universe, only time will unravel the enigma. But one thing remains certain: the horizon holds promise, and the gaming community is here for the journey.
In the interim, the thoughts, theories, and earnest discussions continue. They paint a vivid picture of a community that’s united in their adoration for a series and the legends it has birthed.
While the Amazon TV adaptation of God of War is waiting for its debut, providing a glimmer of Kratos’ return, fans are anchored in hope for another groundbreaking console odyssey.
For now, all we can do is watch, wait, and hope that the gods of gaming fortune favor us once again.
