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God of War Collection (PS3) Review
Released: 2009 (North America)
Developer: Santa Monica Studio
Platform: PlayStation 3 (HD Remaster of PS2 titles)
God of War Collection is a HD remaster of the first two God of War games originally released on the PlayStation 2. With upgraded graphics, trophies, and 1080p resolution support, this collection brought Kratos brutal journey to a new generation of PlayStation players. Despite its age, the games still hold up in terms of combat, storytelling, and overall gameplay, making it an essential collection for both newcomers and veterans.
What Works
Epic Combat & Gameplay
- The core combat system remains one of the best in the genre, blending hack-and-slash action with combo-based attacks.
- Kratos arsenal of weapons like the Blades of Chaos and various magical powers are satisfying to use in the heat of battle.
- The use of quick-time events (QTEs) is well-integrated, allowing for visceral and cinematic kills.
Engaging and Immersive Story
- God of War tells the story of Kratos vengeance against Ares, the God of War, while God of War II continues the tale, focusing on his betrayal by the gods and his quest for redemption.
- The narrative blends Greek mythology, betrayal, and revenge with powerful character development.
- Kratos remains one of the most memorable protagonists, with his tragic past and unrelenting desire for vengeance.
Impressive HD Visuals for PS3
- The HD remaster brings the classic PS2 titles into a much cleaner, crisper visual presentation, making them look much better on the PS3.
- Improved textures and more fluid animations enhance the experience.
Trophy Support and Extras
- God of War Collection includes trophies, adding a layer of replayability for those who enjoy completing challenges.
- Features unlockable extras like artwork and developer commentary, allowing fans to dive deeper into the making of the games.
Includes Both Games
- This collection includes both God of War and God of War II, offering two games for the price of one, making it an incredible value for PlayStation fans.
What Doesnt Work
Occasional Camera Issues
- The fixed camera angles can sometimes be frustrating, especially during more hectic combat or platforming sequences, making it hard to judge enemy positions.
Aging Gameplay
- While still solid, some mechanics feel a bit dated by todays standards, especially compared to later entries in the series (God of War 3, God of War 2018).
- Platforming sections can feel a little stiff, especially in comparison to the more fluid movement systems found in modern games.
No Additional Content or Remake
- While the games were remastered in HD, this is still the same content from the PS2 titles, without any major new features or story additions.
- Those seeking new content or major changes may be disappointed, as the collection is more of a faithful re-release.
Final Verdict
🟢 Final Score: 9/10
God of War Collection is a great way to experience the first two iconic games in the series, especially for those who missed them on PS2. With its amazing combat, engaging story, and enhanced visuals, it's an essential collection for action-adventure fans. While the games show their age in a few aspects, they remain hugely enjoyable and provide a solid foundation for the series evolution.
Pros:
Epic combat and engaging gameplay
Incredible story and memorable characters
Impressive HD visuals
Trophies and unlockable extras
Includes both God of War and God of War II
Cons:
Occasional camera issues
Some gameplay feels dated compared to modern entries
No new content or significant changes
Recommendation: If you havent played the original God of War games, or if you're a fan of the series, this collection is highly recommended. Its a great way to experience the origins of one of PlayStations most beloved franchises.
