Atreus, also known as Loki, is a major character in the God of War series developed by Santa Monica Studio. This included God of War (2018) and God Of War: Ragnarok (2022). He is the son of the series’ protagonist, Kratos, and a Norse goddess named Faye. At the beginning of the game, Atreus is a curious and adventurous boy who accompanies his father on a journey to scatter Faye’s ashes on the highest peak in the Nine Realms. Throughout the game, Atreus develops his combat skills and learns about his true identity, eventually becoming a powerful god and a key player in the events that unfold.
Personality
Atreus is a complex character with many layers to his personality. He is initially depicted as a young boy who is eager to learn and explore, but also a bit naive and sheltered. He is fascinated by the stories of the gods and monsters his father tells him, and he often asks questions about their nature and behavior. Atreus is also fiercely loyal to his father and deeply saddened by the loss of his mother.
As the game progresses, Atreus becomes more assertive and independent. He learns to use a bow and arrow, which becomes his primary weapon, and he becomes more skilled in combat. He also discovers that he is half-god and half-giant, which causes him to question his identity and place in the world. At times, Atreus can be arrogant and impulsive, but he always means well and is driven by a desire to protect his loved ones.
Background
Atreus is the son of the game’s protagonist, Kratos, and the goddess Faye. Atreus is depicted as a young boy with a lean build and fair skin, and he has a unique ability to speak multiple languages, including the language of the gods.
At the beginning of the game, Atreus is introduced as a curious and intelligent boy who is eager to learn more about the world around him. He is shown to have a strong bond with his father, Kratos, but he also has the desire to learn more about his mother, whom he never knew.
As the game progresses, Atreus begins to discover more about his own identity and his place in the world. He learns that he is part god, part-human, and that his mother Faye was a powerful and influential figure in the world of the gods. Atreus also discovers that he has a unique ability to communicate with the spirits of the dead, which proves to be useful on multiple occasions throughout the game.
Atreus’ background is tied closely to the game’s overarching narrative, which revolves around Kratos and Atreus’ journey to scatter Faye’s ashes atop the highest peak in the realm. Along the way, they encounter a variety of enemies and allies, and Atreus’ unique abilities and perspective play a crucial role in their success.
Looks/Dressing
Atreus is depicted as a young boy with fair skin, blue eyes, and blonde hair. He wears a green tunic and brown pants, with a fur vest and boots. His clothing is designed to be practical and comfortable, allowing him to move freely during combat. As he becomes more powerful, his appearance changes, and he gains new armor and weapons that reflect his godly status.
Weapons
Atreus is primarily a ranged fighter, using a bow and arrow to attack enemies from a distance. He is also able to summon magical arrows that can freeze, shock, or weaken his opponents. As he progresses through the game, he gains access to new arrows and magical abilities, such as the ability to summon spectral wolves to attack enemies.
Allies
Atreus and Kratos encounter several allies on their journey, each of whom plays a pivotal role in their quest. Some of the notable allies include:
Mimir – A severed head that Kratos and Atreus revive and carry with them throughout their journey. Mimir is a wise and knowledgeable figure who serves as a guide and advisor to the duo.
Brok and Sindri – Two dwarven brothers who are expert blacksmiths. They provide Kratos and Atreus with powerful equipment and upgrades for their weapons and armor.
Freya – A goddess who seeks revenge on Kratos for killing her son, Baldur. However, she eventually becomes an ally and helps Kratos and Atreus in their journey.
The World Serpent – A giant serpent who aids Kratos and Atreus on multiple occasions. He is depicted as wise and knowledgeable, and his presence is felt throughout the game’s story.
The Valkyries – A group of warrior women who were once the choosers of the slain. Kratos and Atreus must defeat each of the Valkyries in combat to complete a side quest and unlock powerful rewards.
Enemies
Atreus and Kratos face a variety of enemies throughout their journey, ranging from mythical creatures to powerful gods. Some of the notable enemies include:
Baldur – The main antagonist of the game, Baldur is invulnerable to physical harm and seeks revenge on Kratos for killing his sons.
Thor – The god of thunder, Thor seeks revenge on Kratos for killing his sons and plays a minor role in the game’s story.
Modi and Magni – The sons of Thor, Modi, and Magni are minor antagonists who try to capture Kratos and Atreus.
The Valkyries – While they are allies in some respects, the Valkyries also serve as formidable enemies that must be defeated in combat.
Dark Elves – A group of elves who are hostile to Kratos and Atreus and guard a key location in the game’s story.
Dragons – Kratos and Atreus encounter several dragons throughout the game, each of which must be defeated in combat.
Trolls – A common enemy in the game, trolls come in various forms and possess different abilities.
Game Plot
The game follows Atreus and Kratos as they embark on a journey to scatter Faye’s ashes on the highest peak in the Nine Realms. Along the way, they encounter a variety of challenges and obstacles, including hostile gods, monsters, and creatures. Atreus learns about his true identity and develops his combat skills, while Kratos struggles with his past and tries to protect his son from harm.
The story is told through a combination of cutscenes, scripted events, and player-controlled action sequences. The gameplay is focused on exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, with the player controlling both Kratos and Atreus in tandem. The game features an open-world environment that allows for free exploration of the Nine Realms and encourages players to engage in side quests and collectibles.
Top Quotes
Atreus has several memorable quotes throughout the game, including:
- “I understand if you want to go home, but you’re helping me with this.” (To Kratos)
- “I think I’m afraid. But not of you. There’s nothing to be afraid of.” (To Baldur)
- “I don’t want to be afraid anymore. I don’t want to feel like I’m not ready for this.” (To Kratos)
- “I am not a god.” (To Kratos)
- “I’m ready.” (Before a battle)
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Trivia
- Atreus was originally going to be named “Loki,” but the developers decided to give him a different name to avoid confusion with the Marvel character of the same name.
- Atreus was designed to be a contrast to Kratos, with a more innocent and curious personality.
- Atreus’ name is taken from Greek mythology, where he was the son of Pelops and the father of Agamemnon and Menelaus.
- Atreus was voiced by Sunny Suljic, who was only 12 years old at the time of the game’s release.
- Suljic’s performance as Atreus was praised for its emotional depth and authenticity.
- Atreus was originally going to have a different appearance, with red hair and a more Nordic-inspired design.
- Atreus is the only playable character in the game besides Kratos.
- Atreus’ bow was designed to be an extension of his personality, with a lightweight and agile design that matches his quick movements.
- Atreus’ quiver is made of boar skin, a nod to his father’s signature weapon in previous games.
- Atreus’ outfit changes throughout the game, reflecting his growth and development as a character.
- Atreus’ relationship with his father was influenced by the real-life relationship between the game’s director, Cory Barlog, and his son.
- Atreus’ character was heavily influenced by the character of Ellie from “The Last of Us,” another critically acclaimed video game with a young and dynamic protagonist.
- Atreus’ story arc was designed to mirror Kratos’ journey in previous games, with a focus on growth, redemption, and familial bonds.
Conclusion
Atreus is a fascinating character in the God of War series, with a compelling backstory and a complex personality. He starts as a curious and adventurous boy, but throughout the game, he develops into a powerful god and a key player in the events that unfold. Atreus’ journey is one of self-discovery and growth, and his relationship with his father, Kratos, is at the heart of the game’s emotional resonance. Atreus is a worthy addition to the pantheon of video game characters, and his story will surely captivate players for years to come.