10 Greatest Next-Gen Video Game Heroes

Son of Kratos

When Santa Monica Studio announced a new God of War was being released in 2018, bloodthirsty fans couldn't contain their excitement. But when it was revealed that the action-adventurer would centre around Kratos' relationship with his son, Atreus, some gamers were conflicted. Even though Kratos' family is a fundamental part of the character, people were worried the gameplay would suffer if the literal god of war had a kid tagging along.

Thankfully, these concerns were put to rest as soon as the game begins. Not only does this father-and-son dynamic keep Kratos grounded, Atreus is an incredible character in his own right. Even though he shares his father's rage, he is compassionate and nurturing, which stops him from coming across as Kratos Jr. The game forces you to care about Atreus, making it all the more heartbreaking when there's any implication he's destined to become an unstoppable deity-killing monster like Kratos.

Although Atreus has only appeared in one video game, he has become one of the most defining video game characters in recent times. It's no surprise that fans of the franchise can't wait to see more of the youngling next year when God of War: Ragnarok hits shelves.