(continued from previous page) ...dodging is also a necessary part of the game, especially on either of the hard or god modes. Various types of attacks (light, heavy, rush, and more) can be combined to create devastating combos. The combo system is flawless, allowing for maximum freedom and dozens of ways to defeat enemies. As you defeat enemies and perform combos, you'll receive red orbs which are concurrently used to power up your arsenal.

Over the course of game Kratos acquires four different spells and one new weapon. All can be leveled up a maximum of three times yielding power upgrades and slightly more useful mechanics. The new weapon you receive is Artemis’ Blade. It is fun, but not nearly as useful or fluid as the Blades of Chaos. The four different magicks include Poseidon’s Rage (shocks all enemies in vicinity), Medusa’s Gaze (turns enemies to stone), Zeus’ Fury (hurls lightning bolts), and finally Army of Hades (unleashes the souls of the dead upon enemies).

When any enemy's life is low, a button sequence can be initiated. Depending on the type of enemy you're facing, these can range from quickly pressing circle to stab the Blades of Chaos down a minotaur’s throat, rolling the analog stick to rip off a gorgon’s head, or a multitude of other variations. These minigames are also initiated during miniboss and boss battles, often being truly unique sequences that are glorious to watch. Not to forget the sex minigame either (exercise your mind to imagine what you do). There is also the occasional puzzle that must be solved in order to progress. They are never mind-boggling, but sometimes you must act quickly or die. While there are only three main boss battles, they are so epic and incredible they make up for the small number.

When finishing the game on either easy, normal, or hard; a ton of new content (including the hardest mode) is unlocked. You also unlock “The Challenge of the Gods” which is a ridiculously hard set of 10 challenges that will keep anyone playing for a long time. After beating god mode one unlocks even more content which give many different paths for a sequel and details about Kratos's life. There is so much replayability in this game, it certainly warrants a purchase.

God of War is one of those rare games that nobody can afford to miss. With groundbreaking visuals, sound, and gameplay, this title will go down in history. Experience the phenomenon that is God of War.