Parijat Ghosh 
The gaming world loves a good mystery, and right now the biggest one surrounds Cory Barlog and his secret project at Santa Monica Studio. Ever since the massive success of God of War: Ragnarok, fans have been asking the same question: what comes next? Recent teases, insider reports, and actor comments suggest something major is on the horizon. But whether it is a new God of War or something completely unexpected remains the ultimate boss battle of speculation.
The Latest Tease That Sparked Frenzy
Actor Christopher Judge, the voice of Kratos, recently hinted that fans will hear about Santa Monica Studio’s next project later this year. His use of “we” suggests he may be involved, which immediately fueled speculation about another God of War entry.
However, Judge could also be voicing a new character in a different game. Santa Monica Studio has not confirmed anything officially. In other words, the internet heard one word and collectively screamed “KRATOS RETURNS.”
Not a New IP… But It Might Feel Like One
Industry reporting indicates Barlog’s project may not be a brand new intellectual property, yet could feel entirely fresh. That description fits Santa Monica Studio’s 2018 reinvention of God of War, which transformed the franchise from Greek era hack and slash action into a deeply emotional and cinematic Norse mythology epic.
Some insiders believe the next game could reinvent an existing PlayStation property, while others suspect it is a bold evolution of God of War itself. Basically, expect something familiar wearing a very expensive disguise.
Earlier Clues About a Technically Ambitious Project
Barlog previously described the mystery title as a technically ambitious project that has been in development for years. Job listings and team expansions also indicate multiple projects are underway at the studio, suggesting the next release may not be the only surprise in development.
Translation: Santa Monica is cooking more than one dish, and none of them are microwave meals.
Could It Be the Next God of War?
Here’s why fans think Kratos may return. Santa Monica Studio’s biggest franchise remains God of War. The actor Christopher Judge’s involvement hints at a potential return. Hiring calls referenced experience with recent God of War titles and insiders say the project is not a new IP.
But there are a few reasons it might be something different as well. Biggest is thatBarlog previously mentioned a new IP in development. Also, the project could reinvent an existing franchise rather than continue Kratos’ saga. So yes, Kratos might return. Or Santa Monica might surprise everyone. Not very helpful right? We know but all we can do is present the facts as they are.
What About Story, Release, Characters?
No official plot details exist yet. But if it is indeed a God of War project, then speculation includes a continuation of Atreus’ journey after Ragnarök or spiritual reboot style reinvention. Meanwhile, last week we already saw the release of God of War: Sons of Sparta, a Greek era prequel exploring Kratos’ early life as well as the announcement of OG trilogy remake. This proves Sony is still expanding the franchise timeline and this makes a new mainline entry feel more likely than ever.
If the latest hints prove accurate, Sony may reveal this Cory Barlog project in late summer, possibly during a PlayStation Showcase. Given Santa Monica Studio’s history, if it is indeed a God of War project, the announcement will likely be cinematic, emotional, and powerful enough to make grown gamers reconsider their life choices.
Until then, fans wait, speculate, and sharpen their Leviathan Axes.
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