God of War is an action/adventure game of the highest caliber
The success of God of War lies in its cinematic presentation. As you play the game, you will gradually feel like you've taken on a grand adventure within Greek mythology.
Gameplay -
The gameplay in God of War is quite well done. The combat mechanics are varied and keep you on your toes. However, this is not an action game with the depth of something like Ninja Gaiden. Also, the basic cutting mechanic lacks a visceral quality so crucial to hack-n-slash games. Nonetheless, the other combat motions - everything from ripping heads off your enemies or bashing their skulls against walls - are very violent and surreal.
The other gameplay elements are platforming and puzzle-solving, which give the game a very cool "Indiana-Jones-in-Greece" feel. All the various gameplay elements are polished, and coalesce together very well.
Graphics -
The developers really pushed the PS2's graphical limits on this one. The art style is superb, and the animations for both Kratos and the variety of monsters he faces are top-notch.
Sound -
The score in this game is superb. Background music adjusts to the situation you're in, and really conveys the changes in tone and momentum as you progress through different areas. The pumping orchestral rhythm rises as you rip your enemies apart...
Value -
God of War is a short game. It will take you about 10 hours to complete, if you take your time. Nonetheless, the production values are of the highest caliber. Few PS2 games see so much time and resources committed to making it simultaneously believable and fantastical.
Final Take -
Even though I was skeptical at first, by the end of the game, I understood why so many people loved and recommended this game. If you're looking for an action adventure game of the highest quality for the Playstation 2, don't miss God of War.
