As expected, developer Santa Monica Studio unveiled first-look gameplay footage of God of War Ragnarök during today's PlayStation Showcase 2021. Sony announced plans for the long-awaited broadcast just last week, promising fans a glimpse at a whole host of PlayStation 5 experiences.
The God of War 2018 sequel counted among the games expected to appear at today's digital event, especially since nothing has been shown of the title. Not even its announcement approximately one year ago featured any concrete details, barring a God of War Ragnarok story tease and nebulous 2021 release window that won't be met. Anticipation over a possible gameplay reveal mounted further this week following leaked details from YouTuber Moore's Law is Dead. The YouTuber confidently claimed PlayStation's latest showcase would prove of great importance, thanks in part to the unveiling of God of War Ragnarok gameplay footage. To the delight of many a fan, Santa Monica Studio delivered in spades.
At long last, Sony treated audiences to a full reveal of Kratos' and Atreus' next adventure. God of War 2018 ended with the shocking reveal that Atreus' mother, Faye, originally wanted to name him Loki, making Kratos' often hotheaded boy the Norse God of Mischief. As evidenced by the new footage and details, the next chapter in the series plans on paying off that tease. And, yes, it's officially titled God of War Ragnarok. But, no, there's still no firm release date. In fact, the trailer doesn't even conclude with a 2022 release window slapped across it.
Notably, a post-show interview revealed that Cory Barlog, director of the 2018 adventure, will not reprise his role for the follow-up. God of War veteran Eric Williams, who's had a hand in every mainline title, is instead on board as Ragnarok director.
The new tale will feature faces new and old. Of course, Kratos and Atreus are returning as the leads, with Freya and Mimir set to appear in some capacity as well. Tyr garnered several mentions throughout God of War 2018, but the deceased God never received screen time. That's changing in God of War Ragnarok. The likes of Thor and Odin will make appearances, too; Ryan Hurst of Sons of Anarchy fame stars as Thor and The West Wing's Richard Schiff assumes the part of Odin.
God of War Ragnarök is slated to release across the PS4 and PS5 on an unspecified date.