The God of War series will continue with the Nordic setting introduced in 2018’s soft reboot and see Kratos with his son, Atreus, face off against greater gods. Atreus will be older than before, with the character set to transition into his Loki persona as the story of Ragnarök progresses.

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There need to be certain additions and changes to Atreus’ characterization and role in the plot in order to have fans fully embrace him as the next main protagonist in future God of War games. Moreover, he has to play a bigger part in the gameplay and possess a unique character design and skill set so that he will be a worthy successor to the franchise's most recognizable star, Kratos.

Longer Solo Sequences

Atreus holding the blue orb in a snow covered forest in God of War Ragnarok.

Atreus was quickly established as one of the most tragic characters in the God of War series through his grief over his mother’s passing. The downside to this was that all of it was seen from Kratos’ point of view, with Atreus hiding his emotions for the most part.

The next game should bring forward longer solo sequences for Atreus, much as it was for Ellie in The Last of Us. The solo moments need to be playable with Atreus in action rather than him just walking around. Bringing this change will allow players to feel accustomed to Atreus’ style and fully connect with him without using Kratos as the audience surrogate.

A Balance Between Humility & Anti-Hero Mannerisms

Kratos looks at Atreus in God of War Ragnarok

The previous game was impressive in the way it managed to make Kratos out to be a sympathetic character considering how violent he was in earlier entries. Atreus didn’t have that kind of consistency, as he was largely innocent until becoming ruthless and malicious midway through after learning he was a god.

He eventually went back to his usual, nicer attitude after seeing the error of his ways but there needs to be a balance between the two. Now that he will be older in the latest game, Atreus should develop an edge that can make him out to be an anti-hero like his father. However, he should still be in touch with his humanity to make him relatable to a modern-day video game audience.

Distinct Melee Combat Moves

Atreus talks to Brok in God of War Ragnarok

Atreus’ primary role in 2018’s God of War was to provide ranged support to Kratos. He didn’t get involved in the main action and wasn’t given melee combat moves. With the character older, there's no excuse not to involve him more in the fight sequences.

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It wouldn’t feel original for Atreus to have the same abilities as Kratos, as it wouldn’t feel any different playing from one to the other. Atreus should be given his own move set that closely resembles the powers of Loki from mythology. It would also provide an interesting style of gameplay to switch from Kratos to Atreus.

A Closer Relationship With Kratos

Kratos and Atreus gather food around a campfire in God of War Ragnarok.

Despite the change in his demeanor, some still consider Kratos to be God of War’s true villain due to the lack of tender moments between him and Atreus. Since the characters have properly mourned Faye’s death, it’s time to change their relationship to be a closer one.

Atreus doesn’t need to consider Kratos his idol, but he should look up to his father in terms of his ability to survive and live a normal life even with his godly powers. The father-son dynamic won’t feel any different if they’re at odds like before and a stronger relationship will enable fans to see their familial bond.

Having His Own Rage Mode

Atreus and Kratos on a snow mountain in God of War Ragnarok.

While Kratos has made use of a Rage Mode in every game, 2018’s God of War downplayed it when compared to the Greek saga in the earlier games. Atreus, with the combined Greek and Norse heritage, should be able to access this ability and use it to help his father in battle and show his skills as a fighter.

God of War Ragnarök should change Atrues’ rather weaker physical prowess to a stronger one by use of this Rage Mode. This ability should be activated during times of extreme need, which can be used for plot purposes by explaining that Atreus’ rage is still developing and comes out in unpredictable bursts.

Incorporation Of Quick Time Events

Atreus talks to Tyr in God of War Ragnarok

2018's God of War moved on from the QTE sequences in the previous games but there were several moments - particularly during the end stages of boss fights - where they would have fit perfectly. Atreus will work best for these moments as they'll put a spotlight on him in the fights he and Kratos engage in. It would also be a way for fans to see him as more than just a sidekick.

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Since Ragnarök is set to feature him in an expanded role than the last game, Atreus will be better served with QTE sequences that feature him in end boss fights. These sequences should be with his own unique moves and commands that are independent of Kratos' role in the battles so that players can check out Atreus' skills on display. The QTEs will also serve as a callback to the Greek saga, with Atreus succeeding his father in this aspect.

The Ability To Shapeshift

Jörmungandr helps build God of War's scale

Whether Atreus will embrace his role as Loki is a question that God of War Ragnarök will answer, but he absolutely does need to have the ability to shapeshift. This is Loki’s signature ability and it won’t feel authentic if Atreus isn’t depicted in a different appearance.

With the ability to change appearance, Atreus will gain another attribute that makes him a distinct character. Furthermore, it would greatly expand his skill set as he knows has the capability to trick his opponents and, depending on the gameplay, can mimic the powers of the beings he assumes. As a result, Atreus will no longer be seen as his father's sidekick; instead, he would be considered just as intimidating as his father.

Adopting A Unique Look

Atreus and Kratos talk to Brok

More than gameplay, perhaps the greatest change Atreus needs is to look like a distinct protagonist. Just one look at Kratos leaves a lasting impression but Atreus appears like any other child. The series intends to set him up as the next main character and it’s time he looks the part.

The best way to alter his appearance would be by giving Atreus similar tattoos as Kratos, which will make him distinct from the other pre-teen characters in the game. Further updates like a change in skin color reminiscent of Frost Giants or having him don new armor can also help Atreus seem like a God of War hero who possesses a slightly fantastic, otherworldly appearance.

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