Is God of War Ascension Canon?
The God of War series has been a staple in the gaming world for over a decade, with each installment building upon the last to create an epic story of gods, monsters, and demigods. But amidst the chaos and destruction, the question arises: is God of War Ascension, the seventh main installment, considered part of the God of War canon?
Contents
A Quick Recap
Before diving into the main question, it’s essential to understand the context and story of God of War Ascension. The game takes place immediately after the events of God of War III, with Kratos, the demigod protagonist, at the pinnacle of his powers. Seeking redemption for his past wrongdoings and to restore the gods, Kratus embarks on a perilous journey to find Pandora’s Box, a legendary artifact rumored to have the power to release the Eternals and restore balance to the gods.
However, the story takes an unexpected turn as Kratus encounters his sister, Calliope, who had been brutally slaughtered by their father, Zeus, in God of War III. The revelation drives Kratus into a spiral of despair, madness, and ultimately, his downfall. The game concludes with Kratus lost in the temple of Pandoras, defeated and without purpose.
Debunking the Debate
Why Some Players Consider It Non-Canon
Despite its initial controversy, many players argue that God of War Ascension is non-canon, citing the following reasons:
• Inconsistencies with previous games: Some critics argue that Ascension introduces too many unexplained or unaddressed plot threads, creating an inconsistent narrative. For instance, the game’s prologue sets the stage for a thrilling story, but the remainder of the game fails to deliver on these promises, leaving fans wondering what went wrong.
• Rushed development and poor writing: With rumors of the game’s development being rushed and a poorly written story, many believe that the narrative suffered due to haste and poor writing.
• The impact on character development: Critics argue that Kratus’ character is compromised by his descent into madness, resulting in an unsatisfying conclusion for the character. This character regression can be seen as a disservice to Kratus’ previously established arc.
Why Others Argue for Its Canonocity
However, other players and game developers defend the game’s canon status by highlighting:
• Cliffhangers and potential for exploration: While some plot threads may be underdeveloped, the ending of God of War Ascension raises many questions that could have been explored further. A sequel or reimagining could potentially build upon this narrative foundation, making Ascension a valuable stepping stone in the overall story.
• Impact on future games: Some argue that the events and themes explored in God of War Ascension set the stage for future games. The seeds planted in this game can potentially blossom in future titles, enriching the lore and story.
• Artistic choices and player interpretation: Players and developers often argue that artistic decisions are subjective, and it’s up to individual interpretation. Some argue that Kratus’ downward spiral can be seen as a thought-provoking commentary on the human condition, challenging the notion that Kratus must remain in a single character mold.
A Table for the Ages?
To provide a clear representation of the debate, consider the following table:
| Canon Status | Pro | Con |
|---|---|---|
| Canon | Sets the stage for future games Challenges player expectations Explores complex themes | Rushed development Unanswered plot threads Disappointing character development |
| Non-Canon | Inconsistencies Poor writing Inconsistent narrative |
A Conclusion Fit for the Gods
Is God of War Ascension canon? While opinions remain divided, a strong argument can be made for both sides. Fans of the series should weigh the potential implications of considering Ascension part of the canon narrative against the criticism surrounding the game’s storytelling and character development.
Ultimately, the question "Is God of War Ascension canon?" is one of artistic interpretation. The game may not be without its flaws, but the story has sparked debate, discussion, and, undoubtedly, memories for many gamers. The legacy of Kratus’ journey continues, and its place within the God of War canon will be subject to interpretation by fans for years to come.
Bonus Content:
- Read an interview with Cory Barlog, Creative Director at Santa Monica Studio, on the development process and writing of God of War Ascension: https://www.gamedynamo.com/god-of-war-ascension-an-interview-with-cory-barlog
- Join the debate on online forums and discussion boards, weighing in with your thoughts on God of War Ascension’s place within the God of War canon.
- Explore other articles and critiques on God of War Ascension’s story, gameplay, and characters to broaden your understanding of the debate.
