God of War Ragnarok serves as an epic end to the Norse saga of the franchise. As Kratos and Atreus prepare for the threat of Ragnarok, they get help from many friends, some new and others old. These companions give important information, help Kratos and Atreus figure out what they should do next, and sometimes even help during combat. Angrboda is one of the characters players meet, and she is very close to Atreus. She is arguably one of the most important and impactful companions, and she is great to have in combat.
Though God of War Ragnarok brings many changes, players are still up against plenty of painfully powerful foes. Angrboda assists Atreus while also introducing new elements to the combat loop. She also serves a pivotal narrative role, and through her players learn a lot more about Atreus.
Angrboda Makes Battles Colorful
Players do not meet Angrboda until they are well into the game. Atreus mysteriously wakes up in The Lost Sanctuary where he meets her, and the two take a liking to each other immediately. Angrboda refers to Atreus as Loki, and she already knows a lot about him. Though The Lost Sanctuary looks paradisaical, there are still dangers in this realm, forcing Atreus and Angrboda to fight against monstrous enemies. Though the fights are tough because Kratos isn't around, Angrboda assists, and the bright colors she brings brighten battles.
Angrboda is a giant, which gives her access to giant magic. Her magic manifests in the form of her paints, which she spills during combat. These paints make the battlefield a smorgasbord of bright colors. It isn't just for show, however, and players can use the paints to their advantage. For example, when enemies are covered in purple paint, players can blast them with arrows to cause an explosion. Though God of War Ragnarok's enemies may be stronger than ever, Angrboda's colorful battle style is enough to have players looking forward to enemy encounters.
Angrboda Plays an Important Narrative Role
Angrboda is an important character, and she plays a vital role in Atreus' development. In 2018's God of War, players are introduced to Atreus. He is young, and quite naturally, he is inquisitive about everything, and his naivety often causes him to make rash decisions. His immaturity is highlighted by Kratos who constantly refers to him as "boy." In God of War Ragnarok, Atreus is older, and the story reflects this. He has gained independence, and he is not afraid to think for himself and even defy his father. Consequently, Kratos no longer refers to Atreus as boy.
As Atreus and Angrboda spend time together, it appears that Atreus begins to grow quite fond of her and is beginning to develop romantic feelings. Atreus even gives Angrboda a flower, and he asks Mimir how to gain the affection of a girl, believing that his previous attempt had failed. Though these moments may slow down the game's action-packed sequences, it provides essential character development for Atreus, who is at the age where he would be dealing with awkward feelings such as having crushes.
The game can be praised for many things, including God of War Ragnarok's clever use of a dynamic HUD and its vastly improved combat. Angrboda was one of the best additions, and while she did stir some controversy before the game's release, her role in the game is more than justified. Although the franchise is done with the Norse saga, it is hopefully not the last time players see the forever-hopeful giant.
God of War Ragnarok is available now on PS4 and PS5.
