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Introduction
God of War Ragnarök is more than just a sequel—it’s an emotional and challenging journey through Norse mythology. Whether you're a new player or returning from God of War (2018), this game demands sharp combat skills, deep exploration, and strategic decision-making. In this guide, you’ll learn how to master all the systems in the game, from weapons and armor to companions and endgame bosses. With 10 structured chapters, you’ll be ready to face Ragnarök and walk away victorious.
1. Understand the Core Mechanics
Before diving into the more complex systems, it’s essential to master the basics of combat, movement, and world interaction. The game balances action with exploration and storytelling.
Combat Fundamentals
Combat is timing-based and tactical. You’ll need to alternate between light and heavy attacks, while also using blocks, dodges, and parries effectively. Kratos' Leviathan Axe, Blades of Chaos, and Draupnir Spear each serve different combat roles.
Quick Tips:
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Use light attacks to build up damage and heavy attacks for breaking defenses.
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Yellow ring attacks can be parried; red ring attacks must be dodged.
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Don’t forget to use Spartan Rage for burst damage and healing.
Environmental Interactions
Exploring realms unlocks chests, gear, and hidden lore. Many puzzles require Atreus’ help, so use his arrows and commands strategically.
2. Customize Kratos and Atreus Effectively
A big part of your strength lies in how you gear up and invest in skills. Proper customization can dramatically change the flow of combat.
Armor and Stats
Each armor set in the game affects stats like Strength, Defense, Runic, and Cooldown. Choose gear that supports your preferred playstyle.
Notable Armor Sets:
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Steinbjörn Armor – High defense and health recovery.
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Lunda’s Armor – Applies poison effects for damage over time.
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Raven Tears Set – Boosts healing and support effects.
Skill Trees
Kratos has separate trees for each weapon. As you use a move repeatedly, you’ll unlock additional mods for it. Atreus also has skill trees based on companion phases.
3. Master Weapons and Relics
Your weapons are more than tools—they’re extensions of Kratos. Learn when and how to switch between them for maximum effect.
Weapon Synergy
Each weapon has a distinct element and style. The Leviathan Axe deals frost damage, the Blades of Chaos deal fire, and the Draupnir Spear can detonate from a distance.
Combat Strategy:
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Use the Axe for precision strikes and freezing enemies.
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Use the Blades for fast combos and area damage.
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The Spear is perfect for stagger builds and ranged detonation.
Relics and Runic Attacks
Equip relics and Runic attacks that fit your build. They offer cooldown-based abilities that can turn the tide of battle.
4. Learn to Defeat Tough Bosses
Boss battles in Ragnarök are intense and often involve pattern recognition and well-timed moves.
Preparation is Key
Always upgrade your weapons and armor before major fights. Bring resurrection stones and keep Runic attacks ready.
Memorable Bosses:
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Thor – Learn to parry his hammer swings.
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Heimdall – Requires a special strategy to hit.
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Gná – The Queen Valkyrie is one of the hardest bosses in the game.
Use Status Effects
Apply burn, frost, or poison to bosses using gear or skills. These can weaken them over time and give you the upper hand.
5. Master the Companion System
Companions in God of War Ragnarök play an active role in both combat and exploration. They’re more than just AI helpers.
Atreus in Battle
Atreus can distract enemies, shoot elemental arrows, and summon magical creatures. These tools make a major difference in large fights.
Summon Types:
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Stag for area damage
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Wolves for stagger
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Falcon for precision hits
Other Companions
Later in the game, you’ll be joined by Freya and others. Freya can use Vanir magic and switch arrow types mid-combat.
6. Explore All Nine Realms Thoroughly
The Nine Realms are packed with secrets. Fully exploring them not only rewards you with loot but also reveals important story details.
Realm Highlights
Each realm is different, offering its own puzzles, enemies, and quests.
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Vanaheim – Dense jungles and poison swamps.
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Svartalfheim – Dwarven puzzles and mechanical contraptions.
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Alfheim – Home of the Light and Dark Elves, full of optical puzzles.
Unlock Hidden Areas
Many paths are blocked until you unlock certain gear or companions. Backtrack often to discover new challenges and chests.
7. Complete Side Quests (Favors)
Favors are more than optional—they’re vital to understanding the world and earning the best rewards in the game.
Best Side Quests
Some side quests offer not just powerful gear but emotionally compelling stories.
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The Mysterious Orb – Unlocks armor and a dragon encounter.
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The Weight of Chains – Tells a touching story of guilt and redemption.
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Lost Lindwyrms – Helps you collect resources and lore entries.
Benefits of Favors
Besides loot, you’ll earn XP, Hacksilver, and unlock shortcuts. Many Favors lead to mini-boss fights and hidden relics.
8. Upgrade Gear and Manage Resources
Progression in God of War Ragnarök depends on wisely upgrading your weapons and armor. Resource scarcity can become a challenge if you’re not careful.
Weapon Prioritization
Focus on upgrading your Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos early on, as they are used throughout the game.
Key Resources:
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Frozen Flame – For Axe upgrades.
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Chaos Flame – For Blades upgrades.
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Asgardian Ingot – High-tier armor crafting.
Resource Tips
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Sell old gear to fund upgrades.
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Visit Sindri and Brok frequently for crafting options.
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Explore thoroughly for rare items like Slag Deposits and Petrified Bones.
9. Conquer Endgame Content
After finishing the main story, new endgame content becomes available. These challenges are the toughest in the game.
Berserker Gravestones
These bosses are scattered across the realms and are often harder than main story enemies. Prepare with top-tier gear and upgraded Runic abilities.
Muspelheim Trials
Arena-style combat challenges that test your skill with waves of enemies. Completing all challenges unlocks the best armor in the game.
Endgame Strategy:
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Respec skill trees to match the boss you're fighting.
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Use cooldown relics to trigger multiple Runic attacks in succession.
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Don’t forget to upgrade your shield and accessories too.
10. Adjust Accessibility and Difficulty Settings
God of War Ragnarök offers a wide range of customization options for difficulty and accessibility, helping players tailor the experience to their needs.
Difficulty Levels
There are five difficulty options ranging from casual to brutally hard:
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Give Me Story
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Give Me Grace
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Give Me Balance
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Give Me No Mercy
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Give Me God of War (Only for the most hardcore players)
Accessibility Features
The game includes visual aids, remappable controls, subtitle options, and auto-platforming features to assist all players. Don’t hesitate to fine-tune settings.
Conclusion
Mastering God of War Ragnarök is about more than brute strength—it's about strategy, timing, preparation, and deep exploration. With a thoughtful approach to combat, smart use of companions, and dedication to upgrading your gear, you can conquer the Nine Realms and face the true challenges the game has to offer. Whether you’re fighting Thor or uncovering ancient mysteries, the journey of Kratos and Atreus will leave a lasting mark—and now, you're fully equipped to walk their path.
