Thor’s portrayal in “God of War: Ragnarök” is one of a strong and complex enemy tied to the main plot of the game. His battles with Kratos are not just physical contests but also pivotal moments that drive the story forward and develop Kratos’ character.
The rematch they have at the climax of the story in the game changes how players perceive Kratos. Their second encounter highlights Kratos’ enduring strength, strategic mind, and capacity for mercy, which redefine his identity as the God of War.
What Changed in the Rematch Between Thor and Kratos?
In the first encounter between Kratos and Thor in “God of War Ragnarök,” Thor delivers a crushing blow to Kratos’ head, effectively knocking him out. However, in their rematch, Kratos takes the same hit without flinching. Reddit user u/Rthanos talks about how they “lost it” when Kratos shrugs off Thor’s KO hit to his head in their rematch.
Something I just noticed about Kratos vs Thor
byu/Aeso3 inGodofWar
This stark contrast in Kratos’s reaction to Thor’s blow ties into the theory that Kratos is “as strong as he needs to be.” This concept highlights Kratos’s adaptive strength, which enables him to withstand increasingly powerful adversaries. The rematch is not just about physical prowess but also symbolizes Kratos’s inner strength and determination to protect those he loves.
Thor vs Kratos: The First Matchup is Not Even Close
The first fight between Kratos and Thor sets the stage for their epic rivalry. Thor, driven by a desire for vengeance, delivers a near-fatal blow to Kratos. Yet, instead of finishing him, Thor revives Kratos with a blast of lightning, prolonging their brutal battle. This moment of revival shows Thor’s arrogance and also acts as a prelude to the significant shift in power dynamics seen in their rematch. If Thor hadn’t decided to play with his food the first time, things would’ve ended completely differently.
The Rematch: Kratos Finally Wins But at What Cost?
Their rematch, occurring amidst the chaos of Ragnarok in Asgard, contrasts sharply with their first fight. This time, Kratos dominates, gaining the upper hand quickly despite Thor’s aggressive attacks. Kratos’ newfound restraint shines through as he spares Thor, proposing a united front against Odin instead. Unfortunately, this potential alliance is cut short when Odin murders Thor, marking Kratos’ ultimate victory but at a significant emotional cost.
His exceptional boss battles further highlight Thor’s role as an antagonist. His unique attacks, such as electrifying the ground with Mjölnir and unleashing lightning bolts, make both encounters challenging and memorable.
Kratos’ Unique Transformation and Development as a God of War
Kratos’s decision to spare Thor in their rematch is a pivotal moment. This act of mercy, juxtaposed with Thor’s earlier brutality, highlights Kratos’s transformation from a rage-fueled warrior to a god who values life and seeks to break the cycle of violence. This decision ultimately leads to Thor’s downfall, as Odin, enraged by Thor’s mercy, kills him, showcasing the tragic consequences of the Norse gods’ relentless pursuit of power.
The transformation of Kratos’ character throughout these battles is profound. Initially driven by vengeance, he evolves into a figure of restraint and strategic prowess. His decision to spare Thor, despite having the opportunity to end him, reflects a significant shift from his past as the rage-filled Ghost of Sparta to a more thoughtful and controlled warrior.
