The gameplay trailer for God of War Ragnarök showed Atreus riding a mysterious animal during combat, and Norse mythology may hint at this creature's identity. God of War has always been inspired by various myths and cultures, with Greek myths and pantheons prevalent in the early games and Norse myths claiming dominance in God of War and the upcoming Ragnarok. Atreus' identity as Loki, and the existence of God of War's Thor, points toward several likely candidates of the mount's identity.
An early observation about Atreus' mount in God of War Ragnarok's trailer is its identity as a goat-like species. Goats were quite prevalent in Norse mythology, often appearing in stories dealing with Thor or Loki. Their common use in myths is due to their importance in Viking culture. Goats provided milk, meat, and fur throughout the year, sustaining the warrior population during their raids and harsh winters. This significance earned the goat a place in Norse mythology.
God of War revealed that Atreus, son of Kratos and Laufey, was Loki destined to bring about Ragnarok. Nordic mythology features one story with Loki and a goat, which Ragnarok may reference with Atreus' mount. Loki's goat debacle focuses on the giantess Skadi, who must be made to laugh before taking a husband. To accomplish this, Loki ties a rope between his legs and attaches it to a nanny goat. The two begin a tug-of-war match that eventually gets Skadi to chuckle and choose a suitor from the Asgardian court. While God of War Ragnarok may be unlikely to include such a vulgar display, Atreus' mount could reference this tale.
God of War Ragnarok's Atreus Could Be Riding Thor's Chariot Goats
Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr are two other significant goat characters in Norse mythology. Their names translate into teeth-barer and teeth-grinder. Both goats were immortal and tasked with pulling Thor's chariot across the realms each day. When night came, Thor would devour the goats and await their resurrection when the sun rose the next day. God of War's Thor is shown to be particularly brutal throughout the 2018 soft reboot, suffering from a murderous temper and unrelenting bloodlust. Though goats are sacred in Norse mythology, this display would certainly fit Thor's character. It is possible Tanngrisnir or Tanngnjóstr has been freed from servitude and chooses to assist Atreus in his battles.
Aside from Loki's nanny goat, Tanngrisnir, and Tanngnjóstr, God of War could also have supplied Atreus with an unnamed animal companion. Atreus appears to summon the creature with his magic, likely a side effect of the tattoos Laufey gave him. As Atreus continues to grow, his powers will too. The oncoming apocalypse could be the first sign of Atreus' fulfillment of his prophecy. God of War's lore surrounding Loki is still mired in mystery and could explain the young warrior's new companion.
God of War Ragnarok's reveal trailer gave fans brief glimpses into the game's contribution to the franchise. Freya, Thor, and perhaps more will become Kratos' enemies, threatening his life and the life of his son. The impending apocalypse could hold devastating implications for both beloved characters. Additionally, the fulfillment of Atreus' prophecy and the growth of his powers may lead to Kratos' doom. God of War Ragnarök releases 2022 on PlayStation systems.