Warning: Spoilers Ahead For God of War Ragnarok.God of War Ragnarok’s finale leaves things surprisingly open-ended for its two leads. Prior to the events of the game, many players were expecting Kratos to end up dead due to the prophecy that showed Ragnarok and how it would play out. For Atreus, a dark future where he has to come to terms with supposedly killing his father was expected. Fortunately, both characters find themselves in a happier place as the credits roll, though their separation means a solo title starring Atreus is possible.
As Kratos continues to redeem himself and become a god deserving of worship, Atreus is on a journey to help the giants, with this adventure potentially taking him to entirely new worlds and mythologies. Instead of using the God of War name for Atreus’ potential spin-off, though, Santa Monica should give Atreus’ game its own distinct title, potentially creating a separate franchise in the process.
The God of War Name Would Not Suit an Atreus Title
Though it surely has brand recognition on its side, ensuring that it would likely be used even if Atreus does get his own game, the God of War name does not really fit the young archer and the type of person he is becoming. His father Kratos is the God of War featured in the name, but if Kratos is not going to be the focus of the adventure, adjusting the title to make that clear to potential buyers could be wise.
Fortunately, Santa Monica has a perfect way to deliver the best of both worlds. An Atreus game could keep the “God of” portion of the title, but swap “War” with “Mischief.” This way, casual players could have an idea that it is connected to the wider God of War franchise, but is ultimately its own project with a different tone. The name would also suit Atreus’ god identity and alter ego of Loki.
God of Mischief Could Become Its Own Franchise
The video game industry has already proven how games with slightly altered titles and gameplay loops can succeed and become their own franchise. For example, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands’ success has led to Gearbox confirming that it will become a franchise in its own right, with its name clearly being similar enough to Borderlands to remind gamers which series it is associated with. This same success could be found with a God of Mischief release.
Atreus’ moveset was very distinct from Kratos’ ability lineup in God of War Ragnarok, which led to some diverse gameplay but also served as a promising sign for the future. A deeper lineup of arrow types, more animals to shift into, and a proper melee weapon could all be ways to further flesh out Atreus’ kit. As mentioned previously, his game - or games - could have a more lighthearted tone when compared to his father’s adventures, with humor and playful acts of trickery being more prevalent. It could also bring in characters important to Atreus' story, showing his romance with Angrboda becoming more serious or his friendship with Sindri being repaired.
By splitting up Atreus and Kratos, Santa Monica has essentially given itself an opportunity to take the God of War series in multiple directions at the same time. Atreus could focus on one mythology and provide gameplay that revolves around range and agility, while Kratos could take players to another setting and continue to be a melee powerhouse. Though there is no guarantee that Atreus will get his own game, playing into his godhood and calling it God of Mischief would make sense if it ends up being made.
God of War Ragnarok is available now on PS4 and PS5.
