God of War: Sons of Sparta

God of War: Sons of Sparta is a 2026 Metroidvania video game developed by Mega Cat Studios in collaboration with Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Released worldwide on February 12, 2026, for the PlayStation 5, it marks the tenth installment in the God of War franchise. Chronologically, however, it is the first, serving as a prequel set in the Greek era before God of War: Ascension (2013) and the flashbacks seen in God of War: Ghost of Sparta (2010).

The game follows a young Kratos during his training at the Agoge alongside his brother Deimos as they explore Laconia in search of a missing Spartan comrade. Unlike the Norse-inspired entries God of War (2018) and God of War Ragnarök (2022), Sons of Sparta returns to Greek mythology as its primary setting. Presented in a two-dimensional art style, it adopts a Metroidvania structure, making it only the second 2D side-scrolling entry in the series after God of War: Betrayal (2007).

Because the story takes place before Kratos acquires the Blades of Chaos, he instead wields a traditional Spartan spear and shield - the Dory and Aspis. Progression is tied to Gifts of Olympus that grant special attacks and magical abilities required to unlock new areas. The game features a range of enemies from the Greek-era titles, including harpies, minotaurs, Gorgons, cyclopes, wraiths, Sirens, and satyrs, alongside new foes such as lampades, lamias, and fauns. Crafting also returns, allowing players to upgrade weapons and equipment, including the Belt of Tyche, using collected resources and various colored orbs that replenish health, magic, spirit, or function as experience points.

In addition to its single-player campaign, Sons of Sparta includes a multiplayer option unlocked after completing the main game. A challenge mode can then be played solo or cooperatively through local multiplayer. The narrative is framed by an older Kratos recounting events from his youth to his daughter Calliope, exploring themes of duty, honor, and brotherhood as the brothers confront both monsters and the consequences of their choices.

Upon release, the game received mixed reviews from critics. According to Metacritic, it holds a score of 68 out of 100 based on 26 reviews, while OpenCritic reports a 29 percent recommendation rate. Some critics praised elements of its gameplay, while others, including series creator David Jaffe, criticized aspects of its presentation and tone.