God of War Sons of Sparta, a new installment in the series, is now available for PlayStation 5. This retro-inspired 2D action platformer, developed by Mega Cat Studios, reimagines core elements of God of War in a unique way. For those interested in learning more before diving into ancient Greece, here is essential information about the game.
Duty, Honor, and Brotherhood
Sons of Sparta presents a canon story set during Kratos’ youth, crafted by the writing team behind God of War (2018), God of War Ragnarök, and God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla. The narrative unfolds during the rigorous training Spartan cadets endure at the Agoge. Kratos and his brother Deimos venture beyond their homeland into Laconia, a beautiful yet perilous region surrounding Sparta’s walls. They face threats that test their training and force them to confront the true meaning of duty, honor, and brotherhood.
Compelling Voice Performances
The game features a strong vocal cast, delivering the emotional depth expected from God of War titles. Two actors who previously voiced Kratos in the Greek saga return for this installment. TC Carson narrates the story as the adult Kratos, and Antony Del Rio reprises his role as the younger Kratos, a part he also played in God of War: Ghost of Sparta in 2010. Newcomers to the series include Scott Menville, who voices the young Deimos.
God of War Combat in a 2D Format
Sons of Sparta translates God of War’s dynamic combat into a new genre. Players can customize weapons, acquire new skills, and utilize powerful divine artifacts through the Gifts of Olympus to execute brutal finishers against enemies.
Kratos’ Initial Weaponry
Kratos’ spear and shield are both customizable with various attachments, each offering a unique upgrade path. This allows players to tailor their combat style. Additionally, Kratos can develop new offensive, defensive, and movement abilities through three distinct skill trees.
Gifts of Olympus
During his journey through Laconia, Kratos obtains Gifts of Olympus – divine artifacts capable of altering the course of battle with their special and super attacks. Some gifts are ideal for ranged combat, offering precise strikes or explosive projectiles. Others provide powerful melee combos to complement Kratos’ spear attacks.
Myths and Legends
The game reintroduces many iconic creatures from the Greek saga, such as minotaurs, satyrs, and undead legionnaires. The development team collaborated closely with Mega Cat Studios to accurately translate the original animations into their 2D in-game forms. In addition to these classic foes, new creatures from Greek mythology, previously unexplored in the original games, are also featured.
Exploring Laconia
High-definition pixel art environments immerse players in diverse locations, bringing Kratos’ homeland to life with remarkable detail.
Beyond the main story, Laconia offers ample content for exploration, including optional quests, hidden encounters, and valuable loot.
The Sound of Sparta
Bear McCreary provides the score for Sons of Sparta, delivering a soundtrack that blends retro aesthetics with God of War’s characteristic orchestral and choral style.
Availability
Both the Standard and Digital Deluxe Editions are available for digital purchase on the PlayStation Store:
- Standard Edition of God of War Sons of Sparta costs $29.99 USD / €29.99 / £24.99 / ¥3480
- Digital Deluxe Edition of God of War Sons of Sparta costs $39.99 USD / €39.99 / £32.99 / ¥4480
