Greek mythology has captured the minds and imaginations of entertainment seekers worldwide for years. One primary reason for this is its prominent place in popular culture. Movies like Clash of the Titans, Wonder Woman, and Immortals have made it a talking point throughout the 21st century.
In video games, this is no different. With multiple characters to model and intriguing stories to expand on, Greek mythology has been featured in several fantastic video games that transport players to the era of mysticism, gods, and wonder. We’ve listed the best of these below.
God of War (Santa Monica Studio)
God of War is the de facto game exploring Greek mythology. Released in 2005, the game has spawned a franchise of eight titles, a board game, a documentary, and a television adaption developed by Amazon Prime Video.
Following the god of War, Kratos, the game takes players on an adventure during which the main goal is to get revenge against the Olympians. The game isn’t only about action, however, as it features a rich storyline, challenging puzzles, and strategy components.
Praised for incredible graphics and fluid gameplay, the original title won multiple awards, including various ‘Game of the Year’ titles. Other accolades included ‘Outstanding Achievement in Animation,’ Action/Adventure Game of the Year,’ and ‘Overall Game of the Year.’ The 2018 version of the game, released on more advanced consoles, won over 29 awards, including ‘Game of the Year.’
Apotheon (Alientrap)
Despite most games opting for 3D graphics in 2015, Apotheon bucked the trend with a unique mix of stunning 2D art depictions mostly displayed in black pottery. The game was released on Windows PCs before later being ported to PlayStation 4, Mac OS, and Linux.
Although the graphics may be simplistic, the gameplay is far from it. Playing as Nikandreos, a warrior seeking to save humanity from the wrath of Greek gods, the game takes you through a slew of battles in which the goddess Hera and various ancient Greek weapons aid you.
Upon the game’s release, many were skeptical, with some reviewers calling the game shallow and claiming it focused more on graphics than enjoyable gameplay. However, as the game attracted more players, things changed. Receiving positive reviews on Metacritic, the game was lauded for its excellent use of graphics to highlight an entertaining (albeit simple) combat system.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (Ubisoft Quebec)
Since the release of the first Assassin’s Creed in 2007, the franchise has regularly released spectacular games, with 13 feature titles, 17 spinoffs, and another new game in the works. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, released in 2018, is the 11th feature game in the series and closely follows the story of Assassin’s Creed Origins.
Like all titles in the franchise, Odyssey features an open world and allows you to play as Layla Hassan or the assassin known only as Eagle Bearer in a quest to find the Greek Staff of Hermes Trismegistus. You’ll also search for the lost city of Atlantis.
Set in Ancient Greek times, the game features the same outstanding graphics and gameplay the series is known for. It was nominated for over 20 awards, though it won only in the ‘Best Artistic Design’ category. In 2021, fans of the game were treated to additional DLCs with new gameplay.
Clash of the Titans (Bandai Namco Games)
Based on the film of the same name, Clash of the Titans was released in 2010 and aimed to cash in on the hype created by the movie. Developed by Game Republic and published by Bandai Namco Games, the title was released on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and BlackBerry.
The game’s plot closely resembles that of its namesake movie, with only a few variations to allow for a smoother story. It features a variety of weapons that can be upgraded for use in the fight against the deathly Kraken.
Despite the movie’s success, the video game received critical reviews for having little depth and frustrating gameplay mechanics. Another point of contention for players was the quality of the graphics, which were incredibly muted and lacked the vibrancy players expect from video games.
Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play)
Few images bring Greek mythology to the forefront of the imagination, like the towering pillars of Olympus and gods dressed in white chiton. Pragmatic Play uses this imagery to transport players to Ancient Greece while playing.
Released in 2021, Gates of Olympus is an online slot game found here and at many online casinos that requires players to battle the god of Olympus in a quest to steal (or win) his treasure. While doing so, the possibility of a win is increased by random multipliers that fall and can give up to 500 times the initial win.
The game features detailed graphics, smooth animations, vivid effects, and a backing track that provides an immersive experience. Meanwhile, a special bonus round offering free spins can help players win massive prizes.
Kid Icarus: Uprising (Project Sora)
Kid Icarus was launched in 1986 on the original NES. It was followed in 1991 by a sequel, Of Myths and Monsters, and in 2012, a third title, Kid Icarus: Uprising, released on Nintendo 3DS. This third game in the franchise was the only video game released from the Project Sora studio before it was closed.
Playing as an angel called Pit, the game leads players on various quests and battles against Medusa, the goddess of darkness. Under the watchful gaze of Palutena, the goddess of Light, Pit must use airborne and ground attacks to defeat enemies, including Hades.
Despite some complaints about the game’s control systems, it was highly praised upon its release. Many reviewers commented on the detailed graphics and engaging sounds, which helped the game shoot to the top of the gaming charts in Japan within just a few days. Although the game didn’t win any awards, it helped boost Nintendo sales of the 3DS handheld console significantly upon launch.