God of War Sons of Sparta review: 2D Metroidvania gives Kratos new depth amid growing pains
Polygon
by Austin ManchesterFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article reviews *God of War: Sons of Sparta*, a 2D Metroidvania game developed by indie studio Mega Cat Studios. Set in a younger era of Kratos' life before his iconic journey through Greek and Norse mythology, the game follows the Spartan warrior as he ventures into the wilds with his brother Deimos to find a missing comrade. While it diverges from the traditional God of War formula, the game offers a fresh perspective on Kratos' origins and explores themes of brotherhood and survival in a world steeped in Spartan culture.
The game’s 2D platforming mechanics and Metroidvania-style exploration are central to its design, allowing players to navigate environments filled with secrets and challenges. However, the title struggles in several areas, including clunky controls and visual inconsistency, which detract from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the narrative provides depth to Kratos’ character by delving into his early years as a Spartan warrior, showcasing a more vulnerable and uncertain side of the legendary figure.
For fans of the God of War franchise, *Sons of Sparta* serves as an intriguing detour into Kratos' past. While it may not reach the heights of previous entries, its unique approach to storytelling and setting makes it a worthwhile exploration for those interested in Kratos’ early days. The game’s indie roots are evident, offering a distinct yet flawed take on a beloved character, ultimately leaving room for future iterations to build upon this new chapter in Kratos' evolving lore.
Verticals
gamingentertainment
Originally published on Polygon on 2/20/2026