God of War Universe Expands: Sony Santa Monica Hints at Latest Franchise
The world of God of War is set to grow beyond Kratos’s saga. Recent reports indicate that Sony Santa Monica Studio, the acclaimed developer behind the critically lauded God of War and God of War Ragnarök, is actively developing a new franchise within the established God of War universe.
From Kratos’s Journey to a Wider Mythology
The news originated from a now-deleted LinkedIn profile of a former senior writer at Sony Santa Monica. A screenshot circulating online reveals the writer contributed to “shape narrative vision and creative direction…for a new franchise within the God of War universe,” focusing on character development, storylines, and original lore. This suggests a significant expansion of the mythology beyond the central narrative of Kratos and Atreus.
This development aligns with earlier reporting by Bloomberg journalist Jason Schreier, who previously stated PlayStation had ambitions to build a “smaller version of the Marvel Cinematic Universe” around the God of War IP. This implies a future filled with interconnected stories and characters, exploring different facets of the Norse and potentially other mythological realms.
What Kind of Spinoff Can We Expect?
Details remain scarce, but indications suggest this new franchise won’t center on Kratos. Comparisons have been drawn to how the Control game exists within the Alan Wake universe – a standalone story that enriches the broader lore. This approach allows Sony Santa Monica to explore new characters and narratives whereas leveraging the established world-building of God of War.
Interestingly, a previously reported live-service God of War game developed by Bluepoint Games was reportedly cancelled. However, the studio’s closure doesn’t negate the overall strategy of expanding the franchise. The current project appears to be a different approach, focusing on a narrative-driven experience rather than a persistent online game.
Cory Barlog’s Involvement and Future Projects
Cory Barlog, the creative director who spearheaded the 2018 God of War reboot, is reportedly working on an unannounced project. While his direct involvement in the new franchise hasn’t been confirmed, his leadership role at Santa Monica Studio suggests he may be overseeing the broader expansion of the God of War universe.
Alongside this new franchise, Santa Monica Studio is as well developing a God of War Trilogy Remake, indicating a commitment to both expanding the lore and revisiting the classics. Actor Christopher Judge, who portrays Kratos, has hinted at a new game announcement coming this summer, potentially offering a first seem at Santa Monica’s next large title.
The Expanding God of War Media Landscape
The God of War universe isn’t limited to video games. Amazon is currently producing a live-action TV series starring Ryan Hurst as Kratos, further demonstrating the franchise’s growing reach and popularity. This multi-platform approach – games, remakes, spinoffs, and television – positions God of War as a major player in the entertainment industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sony Santa Monica Studio?
Sony Santa Monica Studio is an American video game developer best known for creating the God of War series.
Will Kratos be in the new franchise?
Current reports suggest the new franchise will not primarily focus on Kratos, but may feature characters and events connected to his story.
Is a God of War TV series in development?
Yes, Amazon is developing a live-action God of War TV series with Ryan Hurst portraying Kratos.
What other God of War projects are in the works?
Besides the new franchise, Santa Monica Studio is also developing a God of War Trilogy Remake.
Pro Tip: Preserve an eye on official announcements from Sony and Santa Monica Studio for the latest updates on these exciting projects.
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