How God of War Can Make Atreus Worthy of Leading the Series

For two decades, Kratos has defined the God of War series. Since 2005, the Ghost of Sparta has been one of the faces of the PlayStation brand and, for a long time, it seemed as if that would never change. Kratos represented the series’ tragic narrative and brutal combat as he turned from soldier to god-killer and, ultimately, reluctant father. His arc is one of the most praised in gaming, thanks to the emotional depth Santa Monica Studio has given him. However, at the end of God of War: Ragnarok, Kratos’ story seemingly concludes, and fans are left to wonder where the series goes next. The most common theory is that Atreus, Kratos’ son, will be his successor and lead God of War 6‘s story.

This prospect brings both excitement and skepticism. Atreus was introduced in the 2018 God of War, where he was a curious boy learning his place in the world. God of War: Ragnarok sees him transform into a more confident, maturing man. Santa Monica Studio has the opportunity to make Atreus a worthy successor and the right choice to lead God of War. There are risks, but these things can solidify Atreus, who is also Loki, as the face of God of War going forward.

Atreus Can Build a Distinct Identity Beyond Kratos’ Shadow

Undoubtedly, after all these years, Kratos is one of the most recognizable characters in gaming, and thus casts a massive shadow. Atreus was playable in God of War: Ragnarok, but these segments were heavily criticized and considered the worst parts of the sequel, which was otherwise an exceptional game and a strong contender for game of the year. Thing is, many people wished Atreus played more like Kratos, but that would’ve been a mistake. Instead, if he’s to take over, Santa Monica Studio must emphasize Atreus’ unique qualities to make him stand on his own and not in his father’s shadow, lest the studio risk incessant comparisons between the two characters.

Atreus has also been portrayed as more agile and curious than Kratos — these can be his strengths. His bow and magic are his iconic tools, and a God of War game following Atreus needs these — it would allow for a different style of combat, perhaps one that acts as an evolution of Kratos’ chains — but of course, he also needs a melee weapon. This could be the bow itself, which could lead to interesting gameplay and combos, but a knife or lighter weapon than Kratos’ Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos would suit as well. A comparison could be how Legolas uses his bow and short blade in Lord of the Rings.

Atreus’s magical abilities should also be a key part of his toolkit, allowing him to be a contrast to Kratos’ raw and brutal power. This could be illusions or different spells he learns throughout his journey, thereby providing players with a neat skill or power tree. Another option would be to lean into his transformations. Atreus could turn into animals or even hybrid forms to get new abilities and combos. This would not only set him apart from Kratos but bring more variety to combat.

Outside of that, how Atreus interacts with the world is equally important. Kratos often treated allies as tools, whereas Atreus sees them as friends. He is a bridge-builder, a listener who wants to help those in need. Leaning into this would give the game a more socially dynamic structure where relationships and diplomacy play a larger role in the game, including having more characters in general. This would not distinguish Atreus narratively from Kratos, but in gameplay opportunities as well.

Atreus Needs Trials That Prove His Strength and Wisdom

One of the key points that resonated with fans was Kratos’ relentless struggle. Endless meddling from gods, battling powerful adversaries, and internal grief all fueled Kratos’ journey. The Ghost of Sparta has earned his reputation and success through these trials and by finding the strength to overcome them. If Atreus is to take up God of War’s mantle, he must be forged through challenges and struggles worthy of the franchise’s legacy. But this cannot simply mirror Kratos’ journey.

Instead, Atreus’ trials should highlight his specific skills and growth. These shouldn’t just be brute force and physical obstacles. Imagine having to make choices that affect communities, where Atreus has to decide on the lesser wrong. Or quests that rely on cunning to find a solution rather than fighting. Sacrifice, the burden of leadership, and the betrayal of friends are all ways Santa Monica Studio can shape Atreus to be the protagonist fans deserve.

Combat should exist as well, but it shouldn’t be the focus. These have a part to play in God of War, but they should have consequences that shape his worldview. These should mature him and force players to deal with the emotional repercussions of fighting. The costs of his choices should weigh heavily on Atreus, just as they did on Kratos, especially as he matures. Through this route, Atreus ensures he earns his place as the lead of God of War and the trust of fans.

Mythology and Storytelling Can Shape Atreus Into a True Protagonist

The God of War series has always been set in mythology, and the power it provides for storytelling. Greek and Norse mythologies have been explored by Santa Monica Studio, but Atreus represents a way to expand on these. Tyr teased other mythologies in both Norse games. For Atreus to rise as a protagonist, his journey has to take him away from Greek and Norse mythologies and into uncharted territory.

As the son of Kratos, a Greek god, and Faye, a Jotnar giant, Atreus embodies the convergence of mythologies. He is Loki, the trickster god of Norse lore, which opens the door for so many possibilities. This should explore destiny and transformation across a multitude of possibilities. Kratos’ story was one of rebellion against the gods, who, afterward, only wanted peace but were thrust into a conflict against his will. Atreus’ journey should be seeking answers.

If Atreus is to lead a God of War game, he should travel to multiple realms in search of these answers. Egypt has long been a fan-requested mythology for the series to explore. Atreus’ youth and curiosity make him the perfect candidate to explore new worlds and mythologies. His perspective could showcase the sense of awe and wonder at discovering new worlds and rekindle what the 2018 God of War did with its new setting.

The idea of passing God of War from Kratos to another is bold and risky, even for an established character like Atreus. However, it is fitting considering the end of God of War: Ragnarok. Atreus represents the series’ future and its many possibilities. For him to do so, however, Santa Monica Studio has to make him a protagonist not just worth playing, but one capable of taking over the series. If done properly, Atreus can be the heart of God of War and take it to new heights.