Kratos (God of War)

Kratos is the protagonist of Sony Santa Monica's *God of War* video game series.

Kratos is the protagonist of Sony Santa Monica's *God of War* video game series. He is a Spartan warrior and demigod who becomes known as the “Ghost of Sparta” after being tricked into killing his family, and later serves as the Greek God of War before entering the Norse-era games as a father and mentor to Atreus.

Character overview

Kratos is a central character in the *God of War* series, first introduced in the 2005 game. He is portrayed as a violent Spartan demigod whose story combines revenge, guilt, and later attempts at redemption.

Greek-era storyline

In the Greek-era games, Kratos serves Ares, is manipulated into killing his own family, and becomes the “Ghost of Sparta.” He later defeats Ares, becomes the new God of War, and turns against Olympus.

Norse-era storyline

In the later games, Kratos leaves Greece and appears in a Norse setting where he is shown as older, more restrained, and focused on parenting Atreus. This era emphasizes self-control and family relationships more than his earlier quest for revenge.

Characterization

Kratos is widely characterized as intense, violent, and driven by rage, especially in the early games. Later portrayals retain his strength and seriousness while adding emotional restraint and paternal responsibility.