Summary
The future ofGod of Waris uncertain, but the Norse saga has offered some clues throughout both stories that have hinted at the franchise’s direction.God of Warseems ready to leave the Norse realm behind, and although this is bittersweet, it ultimately feels like the right call. From rumors of Atreus leading the next story to speculation about Kratos' potential death, theories have run rampant.
Any of these theories could prove to be true, but one of the most compelling waysa realm change would affectGod of Waris through gameplay. With both 2018’sGod of WarandRagnarok, the gameplay and fighting mechanics have been brought to incredible heights. Now that rumors are pushing forGod of Warto venture to Egypt, or other potential lands, it will be fascinating to see how Kratos' fighting style might change in a fresh setting. It’s highly possible that Santa Monica Studio could stick to its guns with combat, but looking toBlack Myth Wukongas a source of inspiration may be the key to making the next era ofGod of Warstand out.
The Next God of War Taking Inspiration From Black Myth Wukong
Looking at One of the Year’s Most Successful Action Adventure Titles
As one of the most anticipated games of the year,Black Myth Wukongstuck the landing. It has proven to be one of the most successful launches of the year so far. Despite developer Game Science insisting thatBlack Myth Wukongis not a Soulslike game, the inspiration is clearly there.Black Myth Wukong’s linear progression may be nothing like the exploration-heavy maps of Soulslike titles, but the combat is very similar.
SinceGod of Warfollows a linear progression system as well, bringing Soulslike-inspired combat to the franchise could work wonders.The nextGod of Warsagahas its work cut out for it in order to reach the same bar as the Norse games. Bringing a Soulslike edge to a new entry could help offer a fresh take on the long-running series. With eachGod of Wargame, the combat and bosses have become more challenging, but removing the difficulty settings in general could be a bold, but exciting, choice.
Santa Monica Studio’s next project is likely a brand-new IP, so a newGod of Waris probably years away.
TheFromSoftware catalog doesn’t offer difficulty settings, and that is the main similarity that makesBlack Myth Wukongfeel so Soulsike. The grind of having to remember a boss' movements and attacks until one is able to successfully beat them is a key aspect in the Soulslike genre. Of course, this could be a divisive route forGod of Warto take, but a well-balanced approach to a single difficulty could kickstart a new era for the franchise. Not having difficulty options isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but it also presents an even playing field that can be incredibly satisfying to conquer.
God of War’s Next Realm Should Offer More Than Just a Setting Change
The past two entries in the series have been a great revamp of the franchise, butGod of Warcan go even further. Last year’sValhallaDLC brought a thrilling Roguelike expansion toRagnarok, so the franchise already has experience experimenting with other genres. TakingGod of War’s combat a step further by taking note of Soulslike mechanics is not too much of a stretch. Not every aspect of the Soulslike genre is suitable for Kratos and his journey, but elevating boss encounters and requiring combat mastery would be right at home in a follow-up game.
Until Santa Monica Studio makes an official announcement,the future ofGod of Warwill remain a big question mark. It will probably be a long time before any concrete news is revealed about another chapter, but it would be surprising ifGod of War’s developers weren’t studyingBlack Myth Wukong’s approach to combat.
