God of War Sons of Sparta brings the franchise to the PlayStation 5 in a 2D action platformer format. Developed alongside Mega Cat Studios and published by Santa Monica Studio, the game adapts the series’ signature combat and storytelling into a retro-inspired side-scrolling experience while remaining part of the established canon.
The game explores the early life of Kratos, taking place during his training in the Agoge as a Spartan cadet. Players follow Kratos and his brother Deimos as they venture beyond the familiar walls of Sparta into the wider region of Laconia. The narrative emphasizes duty, honor, and brotherhood, showing the formative experiences that shape Kratos before the events of the mainline God of War games.
Voice Acting Brings Depth to the Story
Sons of Sparta features a mix of returning talent and new voices. TC Carson returns as the adult Kratos, providing narration throughout the game, while Antony Del Rio reprises his role as the younger Kratos, which he originally played in God of War: Ghost of Sparta. Newcomer Scott Menville voices Deimos. The performances aim to maintain the emotional depth expected from the franchise while grounding the story in Kratos’ youth.
Adapting God of War Combat to 2D
Combat in Sons of Sparta translates the kinetic, combo-driven style of previous God of War titles into a 2D plane. Players can wield Kratos’ spear and shield, which can be upgraded with attachments to suit different playstyles. The game also includes three primary skill trees focusing on offense, defense, and mobility, allowing players to progressively enhance Kratos’ abilities as they progress.
A notable feature is the Gifts of Olympus, divine artifacts that grant special and super attacks. Some Gifts focus on ranged attacks, while others provide melee enhancements that integrate with Kratos’ spear combos. These tools add variety and strategic depth to combat encounters against a range of mythological foes.
Mythical Enemies and Environments
Sons of Sparta reintroduces iconic creatures from Greek mythology, including minotaurs, satyrs, and undead legionnaires. Mega Cat Studios worked to adapt the franchise’s 3D animations into detailed 2D pixel art, while also introducing new mythological creatures previously unexplored in the series.
The game’s environments are rendered in high-definition pixel art, depicting various locations across Laconia with attention to detail. Optional quests, hidden encounters, and collectible loot encourage exploration beyond the main story, offering players additional challenges and rewards.
Music and Sound Design
Composer Bear McCreary returns to score Sons of Sparta. His work combines retro-inspired audio elements with the orchestral and choral motifs that have defined the God of War series, enhancing the atmosphere and complementing the 2D visual style.
Editions and Availability
God of War Sons of Sparta is available digitally on the PlayStation Store in two editions. The Standard Edition is priced at $29.99 USD (€29.99 / £24.99 / ¥3480), while the Digital Deluxe Edition is $39.99 USD (€39.99 / £32.99 / ¥4480). Both editions are designed for PlayStation 5, offering the full game experience with the option of extra digital content in the Deluxe Edition.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is God of War Sons of Sparta part of the main God of War storyline?
Yes, the game is canon and explores Kratos’ youth during his Spartan training, providing context for his character in later games.
What platforms is Sons of Sparta available on?
The game is currently exclusive to PlayStation 5.
How does combat in Sons of Sparta differ from previous God of War games?
Combat has been adapted to a 2D action platformer format. Players use Kratos’ spear and shield, upgrade skills through three trees, and utilize Gifts of Olympus for ranged and melee attacks.
Who voices Kratos and Deimos in this game?
TC Carson voices adult Kratos as narrator, Antony Del Rio voices young Kratos, and Scott Menville voices Deimos.
Are there new mythological creatures in the game?
Yes, Sons of Sparta features both returning creatures like minotaurs and satyrs, as well as new enemies inspired by Greek mythology.
Does the game include exploration or optional content?
Players can explore Laconia for hidden quests, encounters, and loot beyond the main story.
What is the price for the Standard and Digital Deluxe Editions?
The Standard Edition costs $29.99 USD, and the Digital Deluxe Edition is $39.99 USD.
