Is God of War 2018 a Reboot?
The 2018 God of War game, developed by Santa Monica Studio, has sparked a lot of debate among gamers and critics about whether it can be considered a reboot or not. In this article, we’ll dive into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
What is a Reboot?
Before we dive into the specifics of God of War 2018, let’s define what a reboot is. A reboot is a re-imagining or re-telling of a story, often with a new cast of characters, setting, or plot. Reboots can be used to revitalize a franchise, update the narrative for a new audience, or simply to try something new.
Is God of War 2018 a Reboot?
So, is God of War 2018 a reboot? The answer is a resounding YES. Here are some reasons why:
- New Protagonist: The game features a new protagonist, Kratos, who is no longer the same character from the previous games. He is older, wiser, and has a new perspective on his past.
- New Setting: The game takes place in a new setting, the Norse mythology-inspired world of Midgard, which is vastly different from the Greek mythology-based world of the previous games.
- New Story: The game has a new story that is not a direct continuation of the previous games. While it does take place after the events of God of War III, it is a standalone story that explores new themes and characters.
- New Gameplay Mechanics: The game introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to switch between combat and exploration, which is a departure from the previous games’ focus on fast-paced combat.
But Wait, It’s Still God of War…
So, if God of War 2018 is a reboot, why is it still called God of War? Well, the answer lies in the game’s connection to the previous games. While the game has a new protagonist, setting, and story, it still retains the core essence of the God of War franchise. The game’s narrative is still centered around Kratos, the iconic character from the previous games, and the game’s themes of revenge, power, and redemption are still present.
A Soft Reboot
In an interview, Cory Barlog, the game’s director, described the game as a soft reboot. A soft reboot is a re-imagining of a franchise that still retains some elements of the original, but also introduces new ones. This approach allows the game to feel fresh and new while still honoring the spirit of the original.
Key Differences Between God of War 2018 and the Previous Games
Here are some key differences between God of War 2018 and the previous games:
| God of War 2018 | Previous Games | |
|---|---|---|
| Protagonist | Kratos, older and wiser | Kratos, younger and more aggressive |
| Setting | Norse mythology-inspired world of Midgard | Greek mythology-based world |
| Story | Standalone story, explores new themes and characters | Direct continuation of the previous games’ story |
| Gameplay Mechanics | Switch between combat and exploration | Focus on fast-paced combat |
| Tone | More serious and emotional | More action-oriented and brutal |
Conclusion
In conclusion, God of War 2018 is a reboot of the franchise, but not a traditional one. It’s a soft reboot that retains some elements of the original while introducing new ones. The game’s new protagonist, setting, and story make it feel fresh and new, while its connection to the previous games ensures that it still honors the spirit of the franchise. Whether or not you consider it a reboot, God of War 2018 is an incredible game that is a must-play for fans of the franchise and action-adventure games in general.
