God of War II

Game Overview

God of War II is a 2007 action-adventure and hack-and-slash game developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Computer Entertainment exclusively for the PlayStation 2. Directed by Cory Barlog (with David Jaffe involved in earlier stages), it was released in North America on March 13, 2007, Europe on April 27, 2007, and Australia on May 3, 2007. It is the direct sequel to the 2005 original and the sixth entry chronologically in the series timeline.

The story begins with Kratos as the new God of War after defeating Ares. His ruthless rule and endless wars anger the other Olympians. During the siege of Rhodes, Zeus betrays him, strips him of his godly powers, and kills him. Saved by the Titan Gaia, Kratos is tasked with finding the Sisters of Fate so he can travel back in time, prevent his betrayal, and take revenge on Zeus. The journey takes him across the Island of Creation, through encounters with figures from Greek mythology, and toward an all-out confrontation that leads directly into the events of God of War III.

Gameplay builds on the original with refined combo-based combat using the Blades of Athena (formerly the Blades of Chaos). New secondary weapons include the Barbarian Hammer, Spear of Destiny, and later the Sword of Olympus. Magic abilities expand with elemental powers such as Typhon’s Bane, Cronos’ Rage, and Atlas Quake. Quick-time events remain central for brutal finishers, while platforming, grappling, and puzzle-solving are more varied and polished. The game features significantly more boss fights than the first title and introduces flying sequences on Pegasus. Red orbs still power upgrades, and the Rage of the Titans ability provides temporary power boosts.

God of War II is widely regarded as one of the best games on the PlayStation 2 and a technical showcase for the aging hardware, with improved graphics, larger scale, and tighter pacing.

Quick Specifications

• Title: God of War II
  
• Platform: PlayStation 2
  
• Developer: Santa Monica Studio
  
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
  
• Director / Designer: Cory Barlog
  
• Release Dates: NA – March 13, 2007; EU – April 27, 2007; AU – May 3, 2007
  
• Genre: Action-adventure, Hack and slash
  
• Mode: Single-player
  
• ESRB Rating: Mature (Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Sexual Themes, Strong Language)
  
• Media: DVD-ROM (two-disc set in North America)
  
• Players: 1
  
• Key Features: Expanded combat moves, new weapons and magic, more boss fights, refined puzzles, flying sequences
  

Key Features

• Expanded and more fluid combo combat system building on the original Blades of Chaos/Athena
  
• New secondary weapons including the Barbarian Hammer, Spear of Destiny, and Sword of Olympus
  
• Elemental magic abilities and the Rage of the Titans power-up
  
• Significantly more boss battles against mythological creatures and characters (Colossus of Rhodes, Kraken, Sisters of Fate, and others)
  
• Improved and more complex environmental puzzles, including time-manipulation elements
  
• Platforming enhancements such as grapple points and short flight sequences on Pegasus
  
• Larger, more detailed environments and higher production values than the first game
  
• Red orb upgrade system for weapons and magic, plus extensive unlockable content
  

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

What is the story of God of War II about?

After becoming the new God of War, Kratos is betrayed and killed by Zeus. Saved by the Titan Gaia, he seeks the Sisters of Fate to change his destiny, travel back in time, and exact revenge on Zeus, setting the stage for the war against Olympus.

How long is God of War II?

A standard playthrough typically lasts 10–15 hours on normal difficulty. Completionists and higher difficulties can extend the experience beyond 20 hours.

Does God of War II require playing the first game?

It is highly recommended. The story continues directly from the original, and prior knowledge of Kratos’ background and motivations greatly enhances the experience.

What new weapons and abilities are there?

In addition to the Blades of Athena, players gain the Barbarian Hammer, Spear of Destiny, and Sword of Olympus. New magic includes Typhon’s Bane, Cronos’ Rage, and Atlas Quake, along with the Rage of the Titans mode.

Is the game more difficult than the first God of War?

Many players find it moderately harder overall due to tougher enemy groups and more complex boss encounters, though the refined controls and expanded moveset help balance the challenge.

Are there multiplayer modes?

No. Like the original, God of War II is a single-player only experience.