At its core, God of War Ragnarok is an engrossing narrative-driven action game set in the cold wilds of Norse mythology. But how you experience this epic sequel depends heavily on whether you play it on a last-gen PS4 or the powerhouse PS5.
In short, the PS5 edition provides significant graphical improvements through higher resolutions and frame rates. Faster loading times, DualSense haptics and 3D audio also greatly enhance immersion. However, the PS4 version remains an excellent experience with unmatched storytelling and gameplay.
As a seasoned business and data analyst, I‘ve closely examined the key variations between the PS4 and PS5 editions of God of War Ragnarok. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll break down the technical differences using performance metrics, illustrative tables, and cited expert analysis. My goal is to help you make an informed purchasing decision based on your console of choice.
Let‘s dive in!
PS5 Displays Sharper 4K Visuals
The most prominent advantage of playing God of War Ragnarok on PS5 is the substantial bump in visual fidelity. On the PS4, the game renders at a 1080p resolution with lower quality texture filtering and assets.
Comparatively, the PS5 edition boasts two graphics modes:
| Mode | Resolution | Frame Rate | Ray Tracing |
| Favour Quality | 4K (2160p) | 30 FPS | Yes |
| Favour Performance | 1440-2160p | 60 FPS | No |
According to an extensive tech analysis by Digital Foundry, higher resolution textures and improved anisotropic filtering on PS5 result in much sharper details across all surfaces. Minute elements like fabric fibers and skin pores are more defined.
They also noted superior material shaders on character models along with better shadows and lighting. So whether you prioritize visual polish or buttery smooth action, PS5 delivers markedly better graphics.
Higher and More Stable Framerates on PS5
The PS4 edition of God of War Ragnarok is locked to 30 FPS, while the PS5 offers up to 60 FPS for vastly smoother combat and exploration.
Digital Foundry clocked performance on PS4 Pro dropping as low as 26 FPS during intensive fights where effects and enemies abound. Even in calmer scenes, minor dips and stutters occurred.
Conversely, PS5‘s Favour Performance mode maintained a near unwavering 60 FPS throughout all areas. The potent PS5 hardware delivers consistently fluid gameplay unmatched on PS4.
Higher and more stable framerates translate directly into snappier actions and camera movement. Fast-paced combat with multiple enemies feels far more responsive and satisfying at 60 FPS.
Faster Loading and Near-Instant Warp Travel
The PS5 console‘s ultra-fast solid state drive enables massive cuts to loading times. As tested by Digital Foundry, fast traveling between realms takes just 1-2 seconds on PS5 but 15-20 seconds on PS4 – up to 10x slower!
Here‘s a comparison of select God of War Ragnarok load times across consoles:
| PS5 | PS4 | PS4 Pro | |
| Loading from menu | 51s | 1m11s | 1m03s |
| Realm warp travel | 1-2s | 15-20s | 12-18s |
| Restart from checkpoint | 1.3s | 13.4s | 9.1s |
Near-instant warping and loading means you spend minimal time staring at progress screens. The rest of the experience is uninterrupted and highly immersive.
Exclusive PS5 Features – DualSense and 3D Audio
While not affecting core gameplay, two signature PS5 features dramatically boost immersion:
- DualSense Haptics: Feel ice shatter underfoot and spells cast from your hands through nuanced vibrations.
- 3D Spatial Audio: Hear thunder rumbling overhead and dragons flapping behind you thanks to surround sound.
These sensory elements allow combat, exploration and storytelling to come alive through your senses of touch and sound. It augments the experience significantly over standard controllers and stereo audio on PS4.
Is the PS5 Upgrade Worth the $10 Extra?
You‘ll need to spend $70 for the full-fledged PS5 release of God of War Ragnarok, whereas the PS4 base version costs $60. Additionally, upgrading from the PS4 disc to PS5 digital costs a one-time fee of $10.
To determine if the PS5 edition‘s advantages warrant the extra outlay, I‘ve devised a straightforward points system:
| PS5 Benefits | Points |
| Higher resolution textures/graphics | 4 |
| Higher, smoother framerates | 5 |
| Faster loading | 4 |
| DualSense haptics | 3 |
| 3D spatial audio | 3 |
| Total | 19 |
Given the substantial 19 points accrued, the PS5 edition is strongly recommended for those gaming on 4K or high refresh rate displays. The graphical, performance and immersive gains far outweigh the moderate $10 upgrade cost.
However, PS4 owners without PS5 plans in the near future may not find the benefits as compelling. Ultimately, the choice depends on your console ecosystem.
Identical Gameplay Across Both Platforms
Importantly, the actual gameplay mechanics and content remain identical across PS4 and PS5. As a true cross-gen title, the story, realms, enemies, abilities, loot and puzzles are completely uniform.
The biggest deviations are the higher fidelity visuals and smoother framerates granting slicker combat on PS5. Load times also see dramatic improvements as highlighted earlier.
Yet the core combat, exploration and progression systems feel similarly excellent on both consoles. Rest assured you can enjoy the same addictive gameplay loop on PS4, even if PS5 has technical advantages.
Is God of War Ragnarok‘s Digital Deluxe Edition Worthwhile?
Alongside the standard editions, God of War Ragnarok offers a Digital Deluxe Edition on PS4 and PS5 for $79.99. It bundles the base game with the following digital goodies:
- Kratos Risen Snow Armor – Stylish cosmetic armor
- Atreus Risen Snow Tunic – Matching armor for Atreus
- Darkdale Creature Shield – Legendary shield
- Darkdale Blades Handles – Blades skins
- Official Soundtrack – Digital soundtrack
- Dark Horse Digital Mini Artbook – Art and guide
- Avatar Set – Forum avatars
To evaluate the value proposition, I‘ve contrasted the Deluxe perks against the $20 premium over standard pricing:
| Deluxe Perk | Value Points |
| Cosmetic armor set | 2 |
| Legendary shield | 3 |
| Weapon skins | 2 |
| Soundtrack | 3 |
| Digital artbook | 2 |
| Avatar set | 1 |
| Total | 13 |
With only 13 points compared to the $20 uptick, the Deluxe Edition falls a bit short for most mainstream gamers. The included perks are enticing extras for collectors and hardcore fans but skippable for casual players.
The Verdict: PS5 Is Optimal, but PS4 Still Delivers
Based on my detailed analysis of resolutions, framerates, loading times, features and more, the PS5 edition of God of War Ragnarok is the definitive way to experience this Norse mythological epic. Significant graphical improvements, precise combat, instant loading and cutting-edge PS5 tech justify recommending the current-gen version for players who own the hardware.
However, the PS4 edition remains a marvel in its own right, retaining the same poignant narrative and satisfying gameplay loops. Unless you frequently capture photos or crave the smoothest action, the PS4 provides immense enjoyment and value at $10 less.
In closing, I suggest playing God of War Ragnarok on whichever PlayStation console is available to you. PS5 offers tangible benefits for those with 4K displays and surround sound systems but PS4 still delivers an outstanding Viking adventure. Whichever you choose, this sequel stands tall among gaming‘s narrative masterpieces.
