20 Most Intense Video Game Moments Of The Decade
7. God Of War - The Stranger's First Fight
The 2018 remake of God Of War is a much more mature affair than the relentless, blood soaked feeling of the original games. More soulful than any entry which came before, God Of War examined Kratos’ story from a more emotional and grounded angle.
Because of this, there were a lot of narratively intense moments as we saw a still recognisable Kratos in a whole new light. That said, the series didn’t turn its back on its roots completely. The hack and slash gameplay remained intact, and when The Stranger came to visit as the game got underway, it was more visceral and intense than ever before.
Later revealed to be Baldur, The Stranger taunts and attacks Kratos to no real avail. It’s only once The Stranger spots Atreus’ bed that he seems to strike a nerve, and Kratos fights back.
It’s the first time you get to really experience Kratos’ power, and with Baldur immune to pain and able to match his strength, the battle is hugely cinematic. It’s the perfect introduction (or reintroduction) to Kratos’ battle style, and drags you deep into the mythology right from the off.