PS3 God of War Ascension: Review

After 3 God of War games on PS3, Kratos has destroyed the entire Greek mythology. Therefore Ascension takes place before these events. Kratos is trying to break his bloodoath with Ares (fans know why). The Furies, 3 evil godesses, try everything in their power to prevent Kratos from doing so. During the game the Furies pop up to try and stop our hero from advancing by awakening big creatures or by starting a fight themselves. This is pretty much the story, so it's a bit dissapointing compared to God of War 3.


The Furies

So is the fighting for that matter. Ascension lacks the big battles and bossfights the previous title had. A little over halfway through the game bigger enemies appear and things get more difficult, with a good ending. On the plus side, the combat system has been tweaked to perfection though. You can still chain one glorious move after another to paint the walls red with the blood of your enemies and the quick time events are epic. Kratos' main weapon are his Blades of Chaos, which are upgraded with the powers of the gods throughout the game. The fire of Ares, Ice of Poseidon, Lightning of Zeus and Souls of Hades. Each power has its own combos and are pretty much equal in strength. So stick with a power that you like and upgrade it to the max with the usual red orbs you gain by killing foes and opening chests.
You can use (disposable) weapons that can be found in key areas. These can't be upgraded and are not really needed as your Blades rule!


Quick time event

So, the story has a slow start and Kratos spends this first half of the game swatting flies (beautifully though). Are there any good things to be said besides the excellent combat system? Yes sir, Ascension is by far the best looking God of War I've seen. The detail in environment, lighting and characters is truely stunning. And yes, boobies are back gentlemen.


About to get crushed

Another big plus is the Multiplayer section. They have taken their time perfecting this and it shows. The maps look absolutely stunning and the combat system is as good as in Singleplayer.
You start by choosing a god to use his powers. Each god has a different advantage, paper-rocks-scissors style (eg Ares delivers more melee damage) so choose what suits your style. You can change your mind anytime if you think you've made a bad choice.


Multiplayer map

Once you've chosen a god and fitted your fighter with a weapon, armor and colors, you can enter the arena. Modes are Free-For-All/Team Domination and Deathmatch (4/8 players), Capture the flag (4/8 players) and Co-op Survival (1 or 2 players). Starting fresh in any mode is very hard. Higher leveled players have better moves to crush you in an instant so this can be frustrating. Start by doing some co-op (by yourself or with a friend) and unlock some powers and upgrade your armour. Don't think this is a breeze though. You wont get past the first 2 round in the beginning.


Poseidon's rage

Once you reach level 5(ish) things are starting to go your way and Multiplayer will become more fun to play. Your k/d ratio will go up and you can start concentrating on combos and finishers. Fighting is chaotic and fast paced, but very satisfying when you rip someone's head off or when someone falls in your trap (which can be set throughout the maps).

In conclusion:
God of War Ascension looks absolutely stunning and has a perfected combat system, but lacks a compelling storyline (at first). The Multiplayer is a tough nut to crack in the beginning, but is a worthy addition to the game, guaranteeing fast paced action with a big fun factor.

+ Graphics
+ Combat system
+ Multiplayer

- First half boring story
- Bosses
- Steep learning curve MP

Disclaimer: written by a foreigner, so excuse the incorrect use of grammar here and there.

 

I agree mate. Although being a fan it is not worth full price to me. It's a nice change of pace though if you fancy playing something different. I'm keen on playing some mp when members pick up a cheap copy. I'll be waiting...

 

I'd say that's a fair price. Single player takes about 10-20 hours to complete on normal, which is impressive these days. And with MP you can add even more hours of brutal carnage.

 

Whipped

 

There will be a lot more to come mate, enjoy. Let me know when you are ready for some co-op/mp action.