Poisonous Pantheons: God of War and Toxic Masculinity. Issue 8 (27th June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Conway, Steven
• Is Part Of: Games and culture. Volume 15:Issue 8(2020)
• Page Start: 943
• Page End: 961
• Publication Date: 2019-06-27
• Subjects: God of War -- masculinity -- mythology -- digital games -- Kratos; Games -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Video games -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Computer games -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Interactive multimedia -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 303.4834
• DOI: 10.1177/1555412019858898
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1555-4120

Abstract

Kratos, protagonist of God of War (2005–current), is an archetypal representation of toxic masculinity. For much of the series, his rage drives much of the narrative and game dynamics, as Kratos destroys the entire Greek pantheon. The latest iteration of the series moves Kratos into Norse mythology and introduces a son. This father–son relationship allows the developers to ruminate upon the toxic masculinity that has defined much of the series' past. Kratos' trajectory moves from the flatness of one defining characteristic, rage, to an introspective consideration of this emotion and its consequences. A parabolic supporting cast set the stage, each illustrating an aspect of toxicity; as explored, the mother–son relationship between Freya and her son, Baldur, is given a poignant twist. Overall, this article investigates how God of War articulates characteristics of toxic masculinity, explores its repercussions, and offers lessons for its rehabilitation.