This game is absolutely incredible. I played all the original GoW games from PS2 to PS3, and I'm just floored by how much of a departure this game is and how much better this change has made.

The graphics alone make it one of, if not the, best looking console game I've ever played. The detail in the characters, the gorgeous environments, the fluid animations. It all just blends together into an incredibly immersive experience. Which leads me to combat.

I'd read comments about the combat being repetitive and boring after a few hours. Now I'm not sure how many hours in I am (I guess PS4 doesn't let you see time played?), but I just returned to Midgard from getting the Light of Alfheim. I gotta say the combat is REALLY fun so far. Not only is every hit impactful and satisfying, but there is strategy to be found with different enemies and all the abilites to unlock for your axe, bare hands, shield and Atreus allow you adapt a different play style for different situations. So maybe it will get repetitive after a while. Who knows. But right now I'm having a great time engaging in battle.

Then there's Kratos and Atreus. It's refreshing to see Kratos be a protective figure and not the bloodthirsty maniac he was in the older games. He's a father now and must set an example for Atreus by controlling his own rage, thinking for someone other than himself, and teaching Atreus how to be an effective warrior. Already this early in the game, Kratos is evolving from a warrior to a father. The conversations between Kratos and Atreus show them both growing as a leader and follower. It's so satisfying hearing Kratos' thoughts on Atreus' abilities change from "you have a lot to learn" to "you're getting better." As a father myself, I can relate alot to the dynamic between them and I appreciate the writers for adding such an emotional thread to a character that used to be so ruthless and apathetic towards others.

All in all, I'm loving God of War. It's exactly the type of game I've been itching for since Elden Ring.

Now I'm wondering what game to jump to next that I've missed out on. Bloodborne, Ghost of Tsushima, Spiderman, Death Stranding, Uncharted 4, Ratchet and Clank... so many choices!!!