God of War

It was Euripides who stated that “Whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad.”

What better intro for SCEA Santa Monica studios God of War for the PlayStation 2 console system? Based in the mythology of Greece, God of War follows the story of Kratos, an ex-Spartan soldier who is possessed by Ares, the Greek god of war.

As Kratos becomes more powered, and more vicious, he becomes self-recriminating and then angry. He then sets out to destroy Ares.

Sony was demonstrating the title at the E3 in Los Angeles, and while this was an all-to-brief look at the title, it is apparent that God of War features an intriguing storyline, and excellent graphical elements.

The only way for Kratos to destroy Ares is to find Pandora’s Box, which is located atop a hill guarded by traps, puzzles and enemies. During his journey, Kratos will encounter other Greek mythology icons, such as Medusa. Kratos will be able to kill and behead Medusa, using that head to turn enemies to stone as the story unfolds.

Other monsters will include the Minotaur, Cyclops and the Harpies.

The game requires players to use combination attacks, which are linked to the hot buttons on the PS2 controller. You may be tasked to hit the keys in certain combinations to effectively succeed in the melee combat. The game also uses an innovative magic system, which also employs some of the powers of the gods.

This is a brutal game in may regards. The hero may attack the harpy, drive it to the ground and through effective combat, rip off the wings.

God of War is slated for release in the first quarter of 2005, and is a treat for the eyes. This is about the brink of madness translated into vicious combat, a journey through annals of Greek mythology and a reflexive exercise that is certain to challenge most players.

For All E3 2004 Previews