Summary
TheGod of Warfranchise turning away from the Greek saga and entering its Norse era was a great change of scenery for the series. After years of exploring the Greek pantheon, a new chapter was a much-needed evolution forGod of War. Not only did the franchise’s setting change drastically, but so did Kratos as a character. The Norse saga introduced a more mature and nuanced take on the series that showcased some great growth from such an iconic protagonist.
Both the Greek and Norse pantheons are filled with fascinating lore and history, but the Norse story stepped away from exploring some portions of mythology. The Greek saga spent a lot of time with its underworld, andGod of Warmay need to examine the afterlife of its next prospective pantheon at a greater length. Recent rumors and speculation have suggestedGod of Waris gearing up to introduce a new pantheon, and if this is the case, this would present the perfect time to explore a fascinating afterlife.
An Egyptian God of War Should Make the Afterlife a Priority
God of Warhas spent a lot less time in Helheim, the Norse afterlife, during its era. Although players visit the realm, there is so much more that could be explored with the area’s history and myth. The current expectations forGod of Warare based on speculations that Kratos and Atreus' individual journeys will lead themout of the Norse realm, with one possibility being Egypt. This possible new setting would provide the perfect ingredients to kickstart a new and compelling chapter for the franchise.
The Egyptian Afterlife is a Unique Perspective on Death
When it comes to ancient mythologies from around the world, they each have their own fascinating version of an afterlife, but the Ancient Egyptian version of this concept is one of the most unique in world history.God of War’s possible exploration of new mythologiescould set the stage for Ancient Egypt’s afterlife to be put in the spotlight. Known as A’aru, or the Field of Reeds, this interpretation of an afterlife is far more peaceful than a lot of other ancient cultures' views.
In the Field of Reeds, people are introduced to an idealized version of their life on Earth. According to the Ancient Egyptians, death was not an end to one’s life, but a continuation of the soul. It was believed that there was no pain or suffering in the Field of Reeds, which could be fascinating to seeshowcased inGod of War. Although Helheim hasn’t been explored to its full extent, the Norse afterlife clearly was an oppressive and cold environment devoid of anything positive, so it would be intriguing to see the opposite of that.
Anubis is a jackal-headed deity who serves as the guide to the underworld in Ancient Egyptian mythology.
Setting the Stage for Krato’s Next Chapter
The end ofRagnarok’s Valhalla DLCsaw Kratos finally accepting and forgiving himself after years of inner conflict. Now that Kratos has finally come to terms with who he is, there is a strong possibility that the next game in the franchise could be the end of his long journey. As Kratos gets older, there have been expectations that the character may eventually meet his fate, but that ending doesn’t have to be tragic, especially if his path leads him to Egypt.
If Kratos dies in the nextGod of War, he deserves to die in peace, and the Field of Reeds would offer just that. Since the beginning of the Norse saga, it seems as thoughGod of Warhas been eyeingAtreus to take up Kratos' protagonist mantle, and if that happens, Kratos deserves an afterlife that gives him the happy ending he has fought so hard for.
God of War Ragnarok
WHERE TO PLAY
Embark on an epic and heartfelt journey as Kratos and Atreus struggle with holding on and letting goFrom Santa Monica Studio comes the sequel to the critically acclaimed God of War (2018). Fimbulwinter is well underway. Kratos and Atreus must journey to each of the Nine Realms in search of answers as Asgardian forces prepare for a prophesied battle that will end the world. Along the way they will explore stunning, mythical landscapes, and face fearsome enemies in the form of Norse gods and monsters. The threat of Ragnarök grows ever closer. Kratos and Atreus must choose between their own safety and the safety of the realms.
