Today Kratos returns. Fans of the series will need no introduction but for those unaware, today sees the launch God Of War: Ascension – the latest title in the acclaimed God of War franchise and it looks like things have stepped up a gear or two.
So what to expect when the Ghost Of Sparta returns? God Of War: Ascension is hack and slash gaming at the peak of its powers. It’s violent and visceral gaming at its third-person button-bashing best, but one that still requires you to think about your next move too or suffer an untimely gaming end.
God Of War: Ascension is a prequel that predates the entire series so far. Its storyline is set 10 years before the first game and six months after Kratos, the star of the show, has been tricked into killing his wife and child by the devious god Ares. Players will learn more about Kratos, what made him tick and his transformation into a chain-sword-welding destroyer of all that lies before him.
The graphics look to be pushing the PS3 into another realm of detail – vast expanses of temples and dungeons that you’ll need to navigate Kratos through. Gargantuan boss battles and mythical foes were one of the many highlights of previous games and things have picked up from where they left off, truly epic in proportion and scope.
This is also the first time a multi-player option has been added where you’re given the option to pledge allegiance to Zeus, Ares, Poseidon or Hades – with each bestowing unique special powers and weapons to help grow from lowly warrior to a legend of Olympus.
God Of War: Ascension is out on PS3 from today, £39.99