Summary
For years, theGod of Warfranchise has been the bread and butter of Santa Monica. However, rumors that the studio is working on a new IP have been swirling around. These rumors have been motivated by a developer’s LinkedIn profile stating that they’ve been “looking after the entire character development pipeline on their new IP.”
The thought of a new IP from Santa Monica is exciting, but it doesn’t mean that the studio has to abandonGod of Warentirely. There is a lot to learn from the franchise that could be used in a future IP. More specifically, the studio could take inspiration from the varied weapons that have been introduced throughout the series.
The Creative Weapons of God of War
Kratos is a strong man who can do a lot of damage with his fists. However, he is even deadlier when he is armed with a weapon.Throughout theGod of Warfranchise, players have gotten to toy around with a host of different weapons that embrace different play styles and strategies.
Some of the more interesting weapons that have been introduced include the iconicBlades of Chaoswhich are flaming chains with blades attached to their ends. The Norse saga introduced the mighty Leviathan Ax which has several frosty moves. Interestingly, it’s not just Kratos who has access to cool weapons. His son, Atreus also has an assortment of weapons he uses throughout his adventures. His main tool is his bow, which players can use for ranged attacks during battles.
Theweapons ofGod of Warwork because they are both varied and deeply integrated into the combat mechanics of the game. The wide range of weapons allows for a variety of enemies to make an appearance, encouraging players to strategize regarding which weapons to use in what context. Weapons can also be used to solve environmental puzzles, adding a layer of uniqueness to each one.
The Benefits of Having Varied Weapons in God of War
Having this large variety of weapons at the player’s disposal ensures combat never gets boring. It also encourages players to experiment with different play styles. While some weapons are better for ranged attacks, others favor a more up-close and personal approach.
Why a New Santa Monica IP Needs Creative Weapons
God of Warset the bar high when it comes to combat in Santa Monica games. The next game from the studio needs to matchKratos’s combat highs, and this could be done through the inclusion of great weapon variety. There need to be weapons that cater to different play styles and strategies, and various weapons to accommodate a variety of enemies.
Weapons could also be tied to the plot in intricate ways that expand the storyline.God of Warachieves this with theLeviathan Axewhich has connections to Faye, and the Blades of Chaos which represent Kratos’s controversial past. Elements like this ensure that weapons are more than just tools for combat — they’re essential aspects of the characters who wield them.
The Options for Santa Monica are Limitless
When it comes to what weapons Santa Monica could include, its options are vast. A futuristic game could feature various guns with a wide range of features. For example, some guns could be laser weapons while others could shoot traditional projectiles. A game set in the past could also have fun with various weapons such as bows, daggers, and slingshots.
Nothing is known aboutSanta Monica’s next game, or whether it’ll be a combat-focused title. If it is, the studio has the experience necessary to give players an assortment of weapons with unique mechanics and uses. All the studio has to do is look atGod of Warand replicate the weapon design philosophy.
