God of War (2018): Redefining Narrative in Video Games
The medium of games is often seen as mere mindless entertainment, with few offering compelling narratives and empathetic characters. Instead, many games prioritize fun gameplay over engaging storylines. However, there are exceptions, and God of War (2018) stands out as one such exceptional game. It not only revitalized an iconic video game franchise but also redefined the concept of character arc in the gaming industry. Through the skillful use of high-level concepts of narrative progression, character development, and immersive storytelling, God of War presents a compelling and emotionally charged gaming experience.
This essay will explore how God of War (2018) masterfully employs these high-level concepts to create a captivating and emotionally engaging narrative. Each concept will be discussed in turn, showcasing the game’s innovation and impact on the industry, with visual elements from the game incorporated.
Narrative Progression
God of War (2018) brilliantly addresses a common issue in gaming narratives — the break in continuity between events. When analyzing narrative in the medium of gaming, there are some shared characteristics that can be found. A narrative typically involves different locales and points in time where the events of the plot take place. When experiencing this in video games, a common occurrence is that the continuation between these events often gets broken up either through loading screens or streamlining the story to remove unnecessary fluff. This break in continuity can often be jarring and take players out of the experience which can impact their overall enjoyment of the game and its narrative. God of War (2018) masterfully tackles this issue by employing an incredible technique that keeps you engaged with its story from start to finish. From the start of the game all the way to its conclusion, the game takes place in a single continuous shot.
The game is structured in such a way that it is capable of presenting an unbroken sequence of events that heighten immersion and emotional impact. This unique approach elevates the narrative progression, making players feel like they are part of the journey rather than passive observers (Gingerich, 2021). There are no loading screens or fade-to-black sections at any point, meaning you experience the story through the exact same perspective as the characters you play as, immersing you in every event that takes place. The game also maintains a seamless connection between gameplay and cutscenes, successfully blending storytelling and gameplay and fostering a deeper connection to the characters and their struggles. By maintaining a seamless connection between gameplay and cutscenes, as well as the continuity between events in the story, God of War eliminates the traditional jarring transitions that often accompany storytelling in video games (Gingerich, 2021). Players are no longer pulled out of the experience by frequent loading screens or cinematic interruptions, which significantly enhances their immersion. This bold narrative decision is a huge leap from past installments in the series and propels players into a seamless and immersive experience, akin to being part of a grand epic.
The use of a single continuous shot is known as the “one-shot” or “oner” technique. It is a filmmaking approach that aims to create a sense of unbroken continuity within a scene or sequence, and has been successfully employed in cinema, most notably in films like Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rope” and Alejandro Iñárritu’s “Birdman.” It is notoriously difficult to achieve but when done correctly, the results can be beautiful. Because of the difficulty behind pulling this technique off as well as how costly they can be, these shots often don’t last for more than a few minutes. God of War takes this technique a step further and smashes expectations by adopting it for the game’s entire runtime, a feat never before achieved in the gaming industry.
Furthermore, the single continuous shot technique serves as a masterful tool for conveying the passage of time and the vastness of the game’s world. Players witness the evolving relationship between Kratos and Atreus as they traverse stunning landscapes, from the towering peaks of the highest mountains to the depths of mythical forests all in real-time. You are present for every step of the journey and feel like an active member and participant in the story, keeping you deeply invested and feeling the weight of every event along the way. As players embark on this cinematic adventure with Kratos and Atreus, they experience a narrative that unfolds with cinematic precision, heightening emotional stakes and maintaining a consistently immersive experience. The decision to use the one-shot technique not only showcases the developers’ technical prowess but also demonstrates a commitment to storytelling that is both innovative and deeply engaging.
While the narrative of God of War is embedded, meaning the story is predetermined and presented to the player, the narrative progression and techniques on display can often make players forget this fact. Players feel like they are active participants in the story and feel like their actions have weight, even if those decisions are predetermined or forced upon them. The narrative progression in God of War exemplifies how video games can achieve a level of storytelling on par with the most renowned narrative media, such as novels and films. The one-shot technique elevates the game’s narrative beyond a simple gaming experience and transforms it into an interactive and emotional journey.
Character Development
God of War takes a bold approach by reinventing the series protagonist, Kratos, transitioning him from a vengeful god to a remorseful and compassionate father. This monumental leap of redefining the series’ iconic protagonist not only breathes new life into the franchise but also sets a new standard for storytelling in video games. This evolution of the character is central to the game’s narrative progression, setting the stage for a deeply personal and emotionally resonant story (Kopp, 2022). As players guide Kratos and his son, Atreus, through their perilous journey, they witness the complexities of father-son relationships, loss, grief, and redemption. The interactions between Kratos and Atreus are delicately woven into the gameplay, providing players with a deeper understanding of their motivations and emotions.
Kratos’ evolution is evident from the very beginning of the game. His past is not dismissed or forgotten but is presented as an integral part of his character. As players control Kratos on his journey, they witness the internal conflict that arises from his violent past and the need to protect his son, Atreus. This duality creates a compelling character arc that is both relatable and emotionally resonant.
The game brilliantly intertwines Kratos’ emotional journey with his role as a father. His interactions with Atreus offer insights into the struggles of parenthood and the challenges of passing on wisdom to the next generation. This dynamic duo’s bonding moments throughout the game reinforce the importance of familial connections and the pursuit of redemption.
Moreover, the inclusion of Atreus as a new character in the series amplifies Kratos’ character development. Atreus’ inquisitive nature and youthful innocence not only humanize Kratos but also serve as a moral compass for his actions. This father-son dynamic adds layers of depth to the narrative, making players genuinely care about the characters and their growth.
Moreover, supporting characters play crucial roles in influencing Kratos’ growth. Mimir, a wise companion with unique insights, contributes to the game’s character-driven narrative. The complexity of these relationships adds depth to the story and enhances the players’ emotional investment (Kopp, 2022). He serves as an advisor and confidant, offering guidance during critical moments and his presence deepens the emotional impact of the narrative and reinforces the sense of camaraderie between the characters.
Kratos’ character development is a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and acceptance. As players guide him through battles and emotional trials, they witness the gradual shedding of his cold exterior to reveal a more vulnerable and compassionate side (Lindbergh, 2022). This transformation challenges conventional video game character archetypes and elevates the game’s narrative to a new level of emotional complexity.
The success of God of War’s character development lies in its ability to evoke empathy from players. Rather than portraying Kratos as a one-dimensional protagonist driven solely by revenge, the game humanizes him by exploring his vulnerabilities and internal struggles. This shift in characterization allows players to connect with Kratos on a personal level, making his victories and losses resonate deeply with their own emotions (Lindbergh, 2022). His characterization gives him layers that any player can relate to leaving players wanting to see Kratos succeed in his struggle to become a father as well as accept his violent and vengeful past.
The character development in God of War (2018) is a tour de force that redefines the possibilities of storytelling in video games. By crafting a complex and relatable protagonist in Kratos, the game elevates its narrative to new heights. Players are not merely controlling a character; they are experiencing a deeply human journey of growth and redemption. The emotional investment in Kratos and his relationship with Atreus and other supporting characters fosters a sense of attachment and engagement that extends far beyond typical gaming experiences.
Immersion
A core component of any good narrative is a rich and interesting world for it to take place in. Having a well-detailed storyworld can make narratives vastly more immersive and can help players become more invested in the game’s story and characters. Good usage of narrative elements is also crucial in game design as they allow players to connect with the game world, characters, and story, providing a sense of progress and impact as they play. God of War’s immersive storyworld and masterful use of narrative elements contribute significantly to its success as a groundbreaking gaming experience.
Storyworlds are fictional or fact-based universes in which narratives take place, characterized by internal logic, consistency, and varying levels of detail. God of War (2018) has its story set in Norse Mythology and the land of Midgard, a world decorated with Gods and mystical elements. The game’s world-building is rich and immersive, seamlessly blending Norse mythology with the existing God of War lore. The breathtaking visuals, detailed environments, and atmospheric sound design transport players to a mythical realm teeming with life and danger. The game also encourages exploration, incentivizing players to interact with the world of Midgard beyond the main narrative and deepening their understanding of the game’s lore, and enriching the overall experience. Exploration is rewarded with hidden stories, lore, and in-game items, encouraging players to delve deeper than what is typically expected.
Additionally, the game’s combat mechanics integrate smoothly into the narrative, empowering players to feel like a god while reminding them of Kratos’ internal struggle to control his rage. Combat sequences are intense and challenging, making players feel the weight of each strike and the impact of every decision made during battles. The game successfully conveys the internal conflict Kratos faces in controlling his violent tendencies, allowing players to empathize with his struggle while still enjoying the thrill of being a powerful god in combat. This synergy between gameplay and narrative reinforces the emotional impact of the story. Combat sequences seamlessly blend with storytelling, making players feel like they are an integral part of Kratos’ journey. The camera perspective, which remains close to the character throughout the game, reinforces the players’ emotional connection with Kratos and Atreus, as it provides an intimate view of their struggles and triumphs.
One of the key elements of God of War’s immersive storytelling is its meticulous world-building. The game constructs a rich and expansive world filled with captivating lore and mythical creatures. Players explore diverse landscapes, each meticulously crafted to evoke a distinct atmosphere. From the towering peaks of snowy mountains to the eerie silence of ancient forests, every location tells its own story, immersing players deeper into the game’s narrative. The game’s visual design plays a pivotal role in enhancing the sense of immersion. The attention to detail in character models, animations, and environmental textures creates a realistic and visually stunning world. The realistic expressions and emotions conveyed by characters add depth to the storytelling, making players feel more emotionally invested in their journey. In addition to its visual appeal, God of War employs a powerful and evocative soundscape to heighten immersion. The game’s score, composed by Bear McCreary, features haunting melodies and epic themes that perfectly complement the narrative. The use of orchestral music, combined with traditional Nordic instruments and a harrowing choir, establishes a unique and immersive atmosphere, drawing players further into the game’s mythological setting.
God of War (2018) sets the bar for immersive storytelling in video games. The game’s world-building, visual design, soundscapes, and seamless integration of gameplay and narrative work in harmony to create an unforgettable gaming experience. By drawing players into a mythical realm filled with rich lore, captivating characters, and emotionally charged moments, the game transcends traditional gaming experiences and becomes an interactive epic.
Conclusion
God of War (2018) transcends conventional video game storytelling by skillfully utilizing high-level concepts of narrative progression, character development, and immersion. The game’s narrative progression captivates players with a seamless and immersive experience. Character development breathes life into the iconic protagonist and redefines his persona as a complex and compassionate father. The immersive storyworld enriches the gaming experience, making players emotionally invested in the world and its characters, transporting players into a captivating mythical realm, where they explore breathtaking landscapes and interact with unforgettable characters. The game’s meticulous world-building, visual design, soundscapes, and integration of gameplay and narrative all work in unison to create an emotional and interactive epic. The one-shot technique elevates the game’s narrative progression, fostering an unparalleled sense of immersion and emotional engagement. The character development of Kratos exemplifies the evolution of a one-dimensional protagonist into a complex and relatable figure, allowing players to connect with his journey on a personal level.
Through its meticulous execution of these high-level concepts, God of War sets a new standard for video game storytelling. It proves that video games can deliver profound emotional experiences, on par with traditional narrative media like novels and films. By embracing a character-driven narrative and exploring themes of parenthood, loss, and redemption, God of War sets itself apart as an extraordinary achievement in video game storytelling and character design. As players, we are fortunate to witness the evolution of video games, with masterpieces like God of War paving the way for more emotionally resonant and impactful gaming experiences.
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