"God Of War: Sons Of Sparta" is exactly what you think it's going to be ... if you think it's going to be a first-rate side-scrolling action game version of God Of War.
A 2D pixel-art Metroidvania developed by Mega Cat Studios with Santa Monica Studio oversight. Set during the Spartan Agoge, it follows a thirteen-year-old Kratos and his brother Deimos in a canon prequel written by the Ragnarok team. Carson's narration anchors a coming-of-age story about brotherhood and sacrifice. Combat starts simply but grows into a satisfying parry-and-combo system enhanced by the Gifts of Olympus. Bear McCreary's genre-bridging score is the standout. At £24.99/$29.99 with co-op roguelite mode included, the value is fair. Earns its place through narrative ambition rather than gameplay innovation.
VGChartz's Lee Mehr: "Ultimately, Sons of Sparta feels unsure about its size, its looks, and even its own voice. As a Metroidvania, it understands how to tease the next secret spot or occasionally tempt you with an intriguing challenge; but when looking at the particulars, from pacing to controls, engagement will fizzle out. As a story – even on its own terms, what's left is a confused tale about familial and societal duty that's layered with mawkish comradery. As a God of War adventure, this iteration of Kratos takes his character to uncharted territory: eliciting abject apathy. Even the Gods struggle to maintain attention."
"Announced and shadow drop released at the end of PlayStation’s State of Play livestream back on February 12th 2026, and to help celebrate the 20th anniversary of the franchise, God of War Sons of Sparta is a 2D Metroid Vania-inspired side-scroller and prequel to the famous God of War himself, Kratos." Kieran @ Thumb Culture
bummer. i thought this was going to be a videogame adaptation of Meet the Spartans.
It's ok, been playing for 30 minutes, seen better seen worse, it's playable.
its good.
there are definitely better ones out there
This is about the score I'd give it. About 12 hours in, and I'm loving it.
Decent and enjoyable game. I do not regret the purchase but, admittedly, the price is off-putting so I will understand if it is skipped over for now.
If you want more of this (and better) play: Nine Sols, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Hollow Knight + Silksong, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, and even, the recently released, Blazblue Entropy Effect X.