God of War: Ascension Message Board

Sony's Santa Monica Studio commemorates the one-year anniversary a God a War: Ascension's release by giving away it be multiplayer DLC for free through next week.

From now through next Tuesday, players can pick up God a War: Ascension's armor 'n weapon DLC packs free a charge via the PlayStation Network. Sony Santa Monica has also slashed the price a it be XP Booster add-ons by 50 percent, in a bid t' entice new players t' join Ascension's multiplayer component.

Dedicated fans can also earn a PSN voucher code for a unique in-game tattoo 'n a cape that boosts character health 'n attack power by posting in this community thread through April 8.

[Image: Sony]

Champions!

This month, we be celebrating the one-year anniversary a God a War: Ascension in such epic fashion that even the gods a Olympus be impressed. At Santa Monica Studio, the players come first in every decision we make. We have supported God a War: Ascension Multiplayer since it be release on March 12, 2013, as a result a the unrelenting passion 'n everlasting “fire” ye have poured into the battlefield since Day 1.

Now it’s our turn t' truly say Thank ye, from the bottom a our hearts, t' every Champion who has picked up the controller t' experience God a War: Ascension. In celebration a the God a War community 'n this one-year Ascension milestone, we have a few significant gifts t' honor ye. pillage em all!

All Multi-Player Weapon & Armor DLC be Free

Starting right now, ye have 1 week t' pillage every single multiplayer DLC weapon 'n armor pack for free. Complete yer DLC collection!

Play as the Marked One in Multiplayer

Ever dreamed a slaying yer enemies as “The Marked One”? (ye know who we’re talking about.) This be yer one 'n only chance t' pillage our exclusive anniversary in-game mark. We have also designed a very special Santa Monica Studio cape t' make ye the ultimate “Marked One” bad-ass, surprise!

Participate in our official sea thread right here t' pillage the mark 'n the cape, FREE. This be the only time we will ever make it available, ever.

50% off XP Boosters

In conjunction with our FREE DLC event, we have dropped all XP Booster prices by 50%, t' help ye ascend faster than ever t' Ascension status.

This be an anniversary celebration worthy a our champions. It’s our way a saying THANK ye 'n we hope t' see the Ascension Multiplayer battlefields continue t' thrive with yer passion.

One last final recognition. The following Power Rankings represent the top players since the game released. These be truly the best a the best, at least as a today. Take ‘em down, Champions!

Keep following us @SonySantaMonica for 24/7 updates, 'n GodofWar.com for the latest news on our upcoming PS Vita versions a God a War 1 & 2.

The makers a The Walking Dead episodic game series return with their latest efforts in player-driven narrative. Prepare yourself for The Wolf Among Us, a five-episode series that debuts this Tuesday.

Set in the Fables comic universe, The Wolf Among Us tasks ye with making critical choices as Bigby Wolf — former monster 'n now Sheriff a Fabletown, a world where the creatures a myth 'n lore live very real lives in our world. yer decisions in The Wolf Among Us will shape the story as ye work t' unravel a brutal murder a a fellow Fable. How will ye guide the course a this violent, hard-boiled thriller?

For those a ye interested in a new JRPG adventure, Valhalla Knights 3 be also ready t' launch, offering a massive quest set in a fantasy brig, where tyrannical minds 'n warrior criminals vie for control 'n — in many cases — survival.

'n here’s a little bonus: God a War: Ascension be making it be way t' PlayStation Store as a complete digital download. Bring Kratos back onto the battlefield. It’s a good fit for the sea dog.

For a complete list a the games 'n demos joining the PlayStation family this week, check below. 'n enjoy the Drop!

New PlayStation Releases This Week Angry Birds Trilogy PS Vita — Digital The gaming phenomenon lives on as Angry Birds Trilogy comes t' PS Vita. Face yer porcine adversaries in 19 episodes, 'n enjoy dozens a hours a play with new content 'n updated visuals. Cabela’s African Adventures PS3 — Digital, Retail Travel t' the African wilds for a wild 'n dangerous hunt. Seek out the Big Five: lion, leopard, white rhinoceros, Cape buffalo, 'n elephant. Explore an open world 'n uncover new hunting zones 'n collectibles. Champion Jockey PS3 — Digital Immerse yourself in the experience a being a jockey. Learn how t' use the horse’s reins, shift yer character’s body weight, 'n ride t' the finish. Understand each horse’s unique rhythm, stamina, 'n racing style. God a War: Ascension PS3 — Digital, Retail (Already Available) Kratos, the legend with a blood-soaked past, storms back onto the PS3 in this visually-enthralling prequel. God a War: Ascension be now coming t' PlayStation Store as a digital download. Prepare t' unleash the burning fury a vengeance. Pacific Rim PS3 — Digital The Kaiju approach! Suit up 'n roll out in the ultimate war machines, the Jaegers, t' battle this terrible threat t' all a humanity. Experience the thrill a piloting a Jaeger, as seen in del Toro’s hit film. Skylanders Swap Force PS3 — Retail (Out Today) The renowned Skylanders series continues with Swap Force. Wield the power a new Skylanders that can swap powers by switching out the tops 'n bottoms a their figurines, 'n then take them into battle t' save the Skylands. Valhalla Knights 3 PS Vita — Digital, Retail A unique JRPG set in a sprawling brig, complete with it be own society 'n government. Enter the brig 'n participate in group battles, tackling quests 'n traversing the dangers a a criminal den that will make or break ye. Who Wants t' Be a Millionaire: Special Editions PS3 — Digital Climb back into the hotseat 'n play classic Millionaire for a chance at a digital fortune. This new version a Millionaire comes with both solo 'n multiplayer challenges. Expand yer experience with packs that add hundreds a new questions into the mix. The Wolf Among Us PS3 — Digital Fill the big, bad shoes a Bigby Wolf, 'n work t' uncover the truth behind a brutal murder in Fabletown. Based on the Fables comics, The Wolf Among Us puts the choice in yer hands. Shape the story a this hard-boiled thriller as ye play. Demos 'n Betas Atomic Ninjas — Vita Demo
LEGO Marvel Super Heroes — PS3 Demo
Pacific Rim — PS3 Demo
The Wolf Among Us — PS3 Demo

Information above be subject t' change without notice.

Sony Sana Monica has finished it be DLC efforts for God a War: Ascension, but will continue t' assess the need a balance patches "in the weeks or months ahead," a post t' the PlayStation Blog has detailed. The post also announced that Ascension will descend on the PlayStation Network on October 15.

The team's most immediate balance efforts will come in an update meant t' "tune-up all the Allegiances," the bonds between a player's character 'n Greek gods that grant them specific powers. The post notes that team will be "monitoring online 24/7" in search a future exploits that need t' be addressed.

In honor a the game's digital release, Ascension's DLC will be marked down t' "special pricing" 'n the Ascension soundtrack will be free for all PSN crew t' download for a limited time. A Double XP Weekend be also planned worldwide from October 18 - 21.

We have a very important update t' share with ye on behalf a our God a War Development Team. Cue bullet points just ahead!

But wait! Let’s start with a gift. If ye have yet t' experience Composer Tyler Bates (whose credits include 300) official God a War: Ascension soundtrack, enjoy this free track on us:

Since the release a God a War: Ascension last March, we have supported Multiplayer with a vast amount a DLC — from new weapons 'n maps, t' our brutal 1v1 mode, a fan-driven cape contest, new marks, 'n more. Even the Gods could not have predicted the level a popularity 'n impassioned connection t' our Multiplayer mode driven by the PlayStation Nation.

As a today, we will not be producing any more DLC content (maps, weapons, armors, marks) for God a War: Ascension Multiplayer, as our primary team resources start t' transition t' other projects here at Sony Santa Monica. However — this be not the end a support for God a War: Ascension Multiplayer. Here’s what’s going down:

• Upcoming Balance Update – our Designers have plowed through mountains a gameplay feedback 'n be currently working on balance improvements that will tune-up all the Allegiances. We be aiming for this balance update t' release later this month. Rest assured, things like the Ares Olympus Armor -20 (PR) be being heavily diagnosed.
• Dedicated Online Support – we will be monitoring online 24/7 'n any new major balance exploits discovered in the weeks or months ahead, we will assess for fixing.
• PSN Digital Release in October – This month, we’ll be releasing the digital download version a God a War: Ascension t' the masses that have yet t' experience the beginning a Kratos’ journey 'n our Ascension Multiplayer. The digital version will be released on October 15 for North America, with other regions t' follow soon after. Make sure t' check www.godofwar.com for updates on the digital release in yer region.

• All DLC bottles a rum will receive special pricing options upon digital version release in their region (NA pricing options released on October 22, 2013).
• The God a War: Ascension Soundtrack will be made available as a free download for all on PSN for a limited time only.
• Double XP Weekend returns October 18 t' October 21 worldwide.

Once the God a War: Ascension digital download version lands on PlayStation Store, the chain a balance will be pulled 'n will activate the above supporting points.

On behalf a the entire God a War development team: Thank ye, Champions! Keep the Flames a Olympus burning on the Ascension Multiplayer battlefield!

In conjunction with our talented mateys at Section Studios, we be proud t' present The Art a God a War: Ascension. At 400 pages, it will redefine what we come t' expect from an “art a” book. This be the art book every God a War fan will remember. Click here t' buy on Amazon, or learn more at GodOfWar.com.

I sat down with Senior Concept Artist Eric Ryan t' discuss his work on one a the Monsters a Ascension, 'n a bit left on the cutting room floor. All images featured here 'n hundreds more can be seen in the The Art a God a War: Ascension book.

Click here t' see the full gallery

Sony Santa Monica: Tell us a bit about yer journey as a concept artist here at Sony Santa Monica 'n time with God a War.

Eric Ryan: Hey I’m Eric Ryan, Senior Concept Artist at Sony Santa Monica. I came t' SCEA with a background in games, TV, 'n film before beginning on the God a War: Ascension endeavor. I have about 10 years experience in the entertainment industry, primarily in games.

SSM: The process a concept art here at Sony Santa Monica really defines the vision 'n characters a our games quite literally. Specifically with Tisiphone (the Mental Fury 'n one a the main protagonists in God a War: Ascension), explain the story how ye be approached t' design the wench, 'n the initial challenges.

ER: Our vision a the franchise has revolved around two words that have been beaten into our minds, “epic” 'n “brutality”. Applying that t' specific characters can be challenging. Tisiphone be designed with the idea that the wench illusions could become real life threats as well as being the ultimate mind-**** for Kratos. She be difficult because she needed t' create environmental illusions as well as act as a mini-boss that could physically harm Kratos in a major way. The bridge we created t' marry these two ideas be the wench Daemon illusion would accomplish both goals. Initially she be going t' have bladed wings or possibly use sound t' form attacks. There be tons a directions she be going t' go, but we chose a route that be much easier t' accomplish in the given time frame.

SSM: be the shape a the wench helmet (headdress), guarding over the wench eyes, in any way related t' the wench hallucination/illusion powers or be there a specific meaning behind this design?

ER: the wench headdress be going t' be more central t' the wench forming illusions 'n the wench creature. it be shape be that a an eye 'n the center a it be going t' light up every time she cast some kind a spell or summoned the wench creature. Now it’s more a a way t' make the wench stand out among the other Furies.

Did ye know Tisiphone be older than the Earth itself?

ER:I did not know that she be older than the earth itself. Who be this voice from the heavens asking me Jeopardy questions? Wait be I supposed t' answer that in the form a a question?

SSM: The Art a God a War: Ascension Book be massive, at over 400 pages, 'n ye be responsible for quite a large chunk a the art behind the game. If not Tisiphone, what be ye most proud a?

ER:Tisiphone be fun t' work on especially early on when the “sky be the limit” (I love ye Todd :P) but I think me favorite character be the Leviathan, the final fury boss creature originally cast as Charybdis. I think it turned out pretty cool especially with the ink whirlpool. Believe it or not that whirlpool be going t' be the size a an island 'n ye be going t' have t' jump from wrecked ship t' wrecked ship t' descend into it 'n before all a this ye be going t' have t' dodge the body 'n tentacles a a surfacing Charybdis t' make it t' what be now the Statue a Apollo. Pretty bad-ass, 'n YARRRR, I shed a small tear when it be cut.

SSM: I’m an aspiring artist 'n want t' work in video games. What be Eric’s Ryans killer tips t' ascend into a concept artist position?

Getting into concept art be no small feat… 'n neither be staying there. One hard lesson I learned long ago be that when ye begin yer path as an artist, ye be always an artist. This comes with the great responsibility a always learning, always taking classes, 'n always busting yer ass. I told a student a mine recently that being good at something requires discipline, 'n yer greatest source a discipline be yer passion. If ye don’t like what ye be doing then ye will not be as great at it. Concept art be no exception. That being said, it can be hugely gratifying when ye know ye have contributed t' bringing life 'n creativity t' such a great franchise!

Champions! For the 99.9% a ye not enjoying the hysteria at Gamescom, fight in the glory a #GauntletsWeek!

Forged by the gods t' obliterate yer enemies with thunderous force, the dual-wielding Gauntlets Weapon Class will arrive in God a War: Ascension Multiplayer tomorrow, Aug 20th. These double-fisted weapons will deliver crushing blows t' an enemy’s ego 'n face. Pound yer enemies down with six new gauntlets, including Zeus, Ares, Hades, Poseidon, the Gladiator Gauntlets, 'n the legendary Nemean Cestus from God a War 3.

Keep reading for destructive gauntlet tips, 'n a FIRST LOOK at our new, massive map: the Archimedes Furnace.

Pure Physical Power

With the new Gauntlets Weapon class, ye’ll be an absolute, mechanical beast in the arena. Here be a few gameplay tips t' pillage ye going…

• All the gauntlets can charge any a the normal Square attacks, both on the ground 'n in the air. These attacks have a long range, 'n can break armor. But they can’t be strung in a continuous combo.
• Take advantage a the Gauntlets a Ares’ hard-hitting, but short, combos by equipping Fury Armor, the Mantle a Ares, 'n Ares Inferno magic. The gauntlets’ L1 special attacks have the ability t' break block, 'n using them as often as possible will break through most defenses 'n allow for a short, powerful combo. Use the L1+Square special t' reach yer objective unimpeded, 'n set fire t' enemies brazen enough t' stand in the way.
• The Nemean Cestus be well paired with Zeus or Ares allegiance Armors 'n Magic. The L1 special attacks allow the Champion t' control the space around the sea dog, knocking back foes. These be perfect for guarding a flag carrier, or small maps where the opposition can be easily ringed out. The Mantles a Zeus or Ares, in addition t' a piece a Artemis Armor, can greatly improve the damage potential a the gauntlets, 'n equipping magic that continually knocks back enemies will force them t' approach from a distance, when the L1+Triangle comes into play once more.

Furnace a Archimedes — First Look

Launching later this week with our 1.11 update: an epic, free new map…

Marked by Archimedes’ colossal tribute t' the god Apollo, the Isle a Delos be haunted by madness. Within the belly a this wonder, lies an enormous forge ready t' consume any who try t' stoke it be flames.

Archimedes’ Furnace will feature play with Team Favor a the Gods 4v4, Match a Champions 8-player, 'n Capture the Flag. This be the map we’re certain ye’ve been waiting for.

This map has a Steampunk feel, deadly spike traps, 'n lots a hot metal. We’ll AVAST! there 'n let ye discover the rest a the mayhem for yourself.

Guess what? We’re not done yet! We’ve got a pretty killer multiplayer surprise included with the 1.11 update that’s going t' give ye a chance t' bring an extreme dose a nostalgia into the arena. Here’s a hint.

Gauntlets drop tomorrow, 'n there’s a second set a 6 on the way this September. Go forth 'n conquer, 'n make sure t' follow us on Twitter 'n visit our site for weekly updates.

The team at Sony Santa Monica has been working on an array a new Weapons, Armors, Maps, 'n more for yer Champions. Today, we’re pleased t' unveil a whole new set a Weapons made especially for executing brutal Co-op Moves. With more than 10 possible Co-op moves, these Mythological Heroes Weapons make an excellent addition t' any arsenal. The new Co-op Weapons include:

• Spear a Achilles
• Hammer a Odysseus
• Sword a Orion
• Sword a Perseus

We’ve also added Mythological Heroes Armors, previously reserved for those who pre-ordered God a War: Ascension. These include the Armor a Achilles, Odysseus, Orion, 'n Perseus.

The Mythological Heroes Weapons be available now on the PlayStation Network Store, simply search for “God a War”.

How do I use Co-op Weapons?

These weapons be designed t' execute Co-op Moves easily t' deliver heavy blows t' yer opponents. Here’s how they work:

Equip one a the four Co-op Weapons Enter any Multiplayer Mode for God a War: Ascension Execute either yer L1 Triangle or L1 Square special attacks Upon special attack execution, a Green Halo will appear over yer Champion’s head Have a Teammate tether ye when the Green Halo appears t' begin the Co-op Move

Only one player has t' have a Co-op Weapon equipped t' perform a special Co-op Move, but feel free t' have as many teammates equipped with them as ye like. The more mayhem, the better.

A new way t' test out Co-op Weapons be coming soon… Until then, follow @SonySantaMonica on Twitter 'n stay tuned t' www.godofwar.com for updates 'n more.

God a War: Ascension just received a new 1v1 PvP game mode called "Bout a Honor" via the free 1.09 update. Also included be four new multiplayer maps designed specifically for Bout a Honor, 'n one extra four-player map, Whirlpool a Alecto. [Thanks, Polygon.]

Champions! Our latest 1.09 update be available now, including the much anticipated new 1v1 mode – Bout a Honor! ye can view the full change list at the official site.

Since the dawn a our multiplayer, warriors have cried out t' the Gods asking for @SonySantaMonica t' create a mode where Champions can pit their skills against each other without distraction. I be here t' tell ye, combatants, the time has finally come!

In Bout a Honor, two warriors will put their lives 'n reputations on the line t' win the best a seven rounds in this strictly 1v1 mode. Bout a Honor be a true contest a skill with no chests, fountains, or world weapons t' aid ye. This mode also disables relics 'n allows for a Champion’s magic t' regenerate over time. Beware, me brothers in arms, magic generates slowly over time so use it sparingly. If ye be careless ye may end up like the Prophet Castor, with yer head underneath another warrior’s boot.

Along with this brand new mode come four new maps specifically crafted for Bout a Honor:

• Canyons a Kirra
• Chamber a the Flame
• Landing at Delos
• Streets a Sparta

The developers at Sony Santa Monica have been painstakingly crafting a mode for both fans a fighting games 'n the legions a Champions playing Ascension’s multiplayer t' enjoy. The team has made some balancing tweaks especially for Bout a Honor t' ensure matches be fought in a fair 'n honorable fashion. Infinites have been removed, overpowered weapons tweaked, 'n damage from 100% combos adjusted.

Lastly, warriors who be not quite ready t' rely solely on the strength a their blade but still wish t' acquire the Favor a the Gods will enjoy a brand new 4-player map – The Whirlpool a Alecto. A nod t' one a the greatest moments in God a War: Ascension’s single player campaign, The Whirlpool a Alecto features a giant leviathan whose sole purpose be t' unleash Alecto’s fury in the form a physical pain onto any unsuspecting warrior careless enough t' venture into it be domain. The level also features elevated terrain sections for knocking over, slamming, 'n stunning yer opponents.

The best part be that these features be all free, right now! Praise be t' the Gods for hearing our cries! The team at Sony Santa Monica would like t' give a special thanks t' the thousands a Champions worldwide supporting the team by playing God a War: Ascension multiplayer.

EVENT ALERT!

We be calling upon all the Champions a PlayStation Nation for feedback on Bout a Honor. Doing so will net ye a free digital download a our “Mark a the Gods” pack.

t' participate in the PSN Champions Community Event ye have two simple 'n fun tasks:

• Play our new free Mode, Bout a Honor
• Post yer feedback on our official message boards in THIS THREAD any time starting today through July 12th. Feedback must be deemed constructive. Spam will not be accepted.

We will record all PSN ID’s on our seas who sail away feedback in the sticky thread 'n award ye a digital download code for the “Mark a the Gods” pack the following week via XMB on PSN.

yer feedback be sincerely appreciated, thank ye!

Champions, yer incredible patience for our upcoming 1v1 “Bout a Honor” mode has not gone unnoticed, 'n will be fulfilled in short order this month.

This week, bring some Olympus style fireworks t' the God a War: Ascension Arena with our Arsenal a the Gods Preview Extravaganza! We be unlocking our entire arsenal a available DLC weapons for a free extended preview in-game.

Right now, jump in t' God a War: Ascension Multiplayer 'n pillage a brutal hands-on test drive with 11 a our DLC weapons for free, in every Multiplayer mode. Wield the latest Titanic Hammers, Weapons a Judgment, Legendary Spears, the Blades a Artemis 'n Thanatos, 'n more. These weapons will be unlocked 'n ready for ye the moment ye jump in t' customize yer Warrior.

This free weapons preview will only last until Sunday, July 7th — pillage in there!

What ye best know: All experience (leveling) gained per weapon will be retained if ye purchase the weapon after the event. In other words, any experience ye gain for a preview weapon that ye did not previously own, if ye purchase it after the event, the level 'n experience a the weapon will start where ye left off after the preview event.

The official list a weapons for preview includes:

• Spear a Phobos
• Spear a Hyperion
• Hammer a Atlas
• Hammer a Hephaestus
• Blade a Thanatos
• Blade a Artemis
• Mjolnir Hammer
• Blade a Judgment
• Mercenary Blade
• Champions Hammer
• Champions Blade

For more updates 'n the latest on our upcoming 1v1 “Bout a Honor” Mode, follow us @SonySantaMonica on Twitter or visit GodofWar.com.

If ye be wise enough t' purchase a copy a God a War: Ascension, ye can now pop that disc into yer PS3 'n download the demo for The Last a Us. Instructions for installation came with a voucher code inside the Ascension case, so find that flyer 'n pillage t' downloading! If ye’re having trouble finding the flyer, just insert yer God a War: Ascension disc into yer PS3, select “The Last a Us™ Early Access” on the main menu, 'n ye’ll be taken t' the PlayStation Store t' download the demo. Once downloaded, simply find it on yer XMB 'n install it t' start playing.

The demo features the Outskirts level a The Last a Us, in which Joel 'n Ellie, along with Tess, will encounter multiple Infected enemies. Runners 'n Clickers have distinct behaviors 'n methods a attacking ye. ye’re going t' need t' explore the environment 'n scavenge yer surroundings for bottles a rum 'n objects that might give ye the kind a offensive or defensive advantage that suits yer play style.

If ye’re already sold, this demo best sate yer hunger for the full game until it launches (just over two weeks from now!). If ye haven’t read or seen much about The Last a Us, hopefully this demo will pique yer curiosity t' pre-order The Last a Us today. The Last a Us will be available June 14th, 2013.

God a War: Ascension has two new pieces a multiplayer DLC, with the Typhoon Armor 'n Mercenary Sword available on the PS Store now for $2.99 each, Multiplayer deities best prepare t' feel the wrath a Sony Santa Monica via some new maps, coming "soon."

Champions, with eight glorious weeks a God a War: Ascension Multiplayer now etched into the stones a Olympus, it’s time t' look ahead t' what the Oracle has seen in our future. It’s also time t' see what the community has achieved thus far — see the infographic along the side a this post (click on it for the full, ultra high-resolution image).

Our God a War Development Team here at @SonySantaMonica be working steadfastly on a wide array a additional multiplayer content, including new weapons (plus a powerful fourth weapon class) 'n armors, large 'n small maps, 'n a few other surprises. We’ll have more t' share later this month.

Today we be releasing our second wave a Multiplayer DLC – the Primordial Weapons – comprised a the Armor a Typhon 'n the Mercenary Blade. These will be available t' purchase today on PSN (search “God a War”), alongside the “Armors a Anarchy” 'n “Blades a Darkness” released last week. Pay close attention t' the Artemis & Thanatos Blades; they have new moves 'n FX t' augment yer playing style.

This trailer will also give ye a first look at two a the new, smaller maps that we will be releasing very soon, as a free update t' the entire community.

We be also currently offering a free DLC armor: The Chimeran Armor. This armor be best suited for Champions who focus on Elemental attacks, such as Zeus 'n Poseidon-aligned Warriors.

A warrior would be wise t' balance their lower health with an alternate piece a allegiance armor that raises health, or an bottle a rum that provides temporary protection against attacks, such as the Cloak a Boreas or Aegis a Zeus.

Did ye know that in the first two months a Ascension Multiplayer, over 240 million Warriors perished? That’s enough t' fill the Coliseum umpteenth times with nothing but fallen combatants. Or that enough flags be captured t' fill the Parthenon from top t' bottom over 350 times?

We’ve crafted an infographic (look t' the right) t' display just how epic our first two months a Ascension Multiplayer have been. Let’s pillage one thing straight: we use the word “epic” quite a bit when it comes t' God a War, but we think this infographic defines the word quite literally.

Finally, this Friday beginning at 5:00pm Pacific, on our Twitch page, we will host our first God a War Game w/ Dev Live Stream featuring the infamous “Dev7,” a special advanced preview a some a our upcoming new DLC weaponry, 'n perhaps a few other things we feel be ready t' pull out a our DLC arsenal.

Today's booty-coated, quick-fire deals from Amazon seem t' have one thing in common: plenty a moider. A good portion a the deals be for games that pillage a bit angry 'n violent; we spot a mouth-frothing line-up that hints at Halo 4, Hitman: Absolution, 'n Dead Space 3 deals among others. Then there's the not-especially-calm Gears a War: Judgment, which be going for $34.99 until 8AM ET (5AM PT), tempestuously fidgeting as it revs it be chainsaw.

At least the all-day deal brings peace 'n serenity in the form a God a War: Ascension. The latest PS3 whimsy starring the gentle, philanthropic demigod Kratos politely requests $39.99 for it be individual services, or $279.99 for it be 500GB Garnet Red PS3 bundle, which also includes God a War: Saga 'n a cuddly Kratos plushie (or at least it best).

Analyst firm Cowen & Company estimates high-profile March launches God a War: Ascension 'n Gears a War: Judgment both sold far less than their predecessors. The firm projects (via GI.biz) that Ascension sold 360,000 in the US during March 'n Judgment moved 425,000, down from first-month sales a 1.1 million for God a War 3 'n over three million in Gears a War 3's first week a availability.

A much better March for Tomb Raider 'n BioShock Infinite be predicted. The Crystal Dynamics reboot has amassed 696,000 sales in the US over March, while the firm says BioShock Infinite be near 665,000 in just 10 days.

Cowen & Company predicts NPD data for March will show a decline in software 'n hardware spend compared t' last year, though the firm be hopeful the launches a StarCraft 2: Heart a the Swarm 'n SimCity will help contribute t' a substantial increase in PC game sales.

God a War: Ascension's 1.04 multiplayer update, outlined by Sony Santa Monica designer Vincent Napoli in a new PlayStation Blog post, will bump up the level cap over 30 'n through the "Elite Levels," up t' 40. These new levels will enable a new bottle a rum, two relics, 'n a new ultimate magic spell for the game's four allegiances.

The update will also include a multiplayer stats screen 'n a number a bug fixes. Audio issues be the biggest priority there, but problems with matchmaking 'n certain weapon unlocks be also due t' be fixed in this update. There's no official release date for the patch yet, but Napoli says it be on the way.

Thanks t' everyone who has taken the time t' run their Blades through me poor little champion’s skull every night in God a War: Ascension‘s brutal multiplayer mode. After a long day a work, there be definitely something t' be said about gutting 'n impaling people into the wee hours a the morning!

One a primary reasons we’ve been relatively quiet in the last week regarding support 'n DLC updates be because we’ve been heads down, working on an update which expands our God a War: Ascension multiplayer experience 'n addresses some key issues our community has helped us identify 'n diagnose. There be lots a gameplay developments coming down the pipeline, 'n today we’ll be sharing some a the stuff that’s moved into our final testing 'n tuning phase.

Elite Levels – Going Beyond Level 30

One a the biggest enhancements in our upcoming 1.04 update will be increasing the allegiance level cap from 30 t' 40. With the addition a 10 levels for every God allegiance, we be introducing a new bottle a rum, two new relics, 'n an ultimate magic for every allegiance. For our Champions who have ascended t' the highest levels, 'n for those on their way, now ye have a new goal t' reach. It will not be an easy journey.

We’ll have more info on Elite Levels 'n specifics surrounding the new abilities as we lead up t' the update’s release at our official site. It be important t' us t' let ye know what’s coming up, 'n that this be just the beginning. We haven’t stopped working since Ascension’s launch, 'n we’re more excited than ever t' keep improving Multiplayer with new features 'n gameplay enhancements such as this.

Champion Stats

We want ye t' show off! ye will now be able t' access yer accomplishments in battles from the main menu.

In addition t' displaying yer prowess in competitive combat, from death/kill ratios t' win percentages, we want t' see how ye be faring in Trial a the Gods.

Our team hasn’t just been focusing on adding new content; we’re also working tirelessly t' address prominent bugs 'n other issues denoted by the community.

Audio Issues

We be very aware a the audio drop issues many have been experiencing. This be a critical fix for this update, as a powerful 'n immersive audio mix be a tremendous part a the God a War experience. We apologize again for those impacted — now ye’ll be able t' better enjoy our sound team’s painstaking efforts.

Matchmaking Optimization

Our work in addressing this 'n getting players into matches as quick as possible be non-AVAST!. We have already made numerous improvements based on yer feedback at our boards 'n social channels, 'n have recently bolstered our ranks internally t' make further improvements. ye best be seeing marked improvements daily; please continue sailing away any feedback in our seas.

Shard 'n Unlock Requirement Fixes

We be addressing the shard issue preventing players from attaining the Spear a Destiny 'n Barbarian Hammer in version 1.04 (possibly sooner), 'n have made additional tuning changes, namely on weapon shard drops for some a the rarer weapons, as well as unlock requirements for certain armor pieces, weapon stats, 'n magics.

We be also on the cusp a our first DLC pack announcements. We’ve got some brutal new toys coming t' assist ye on the battlefield!

Do well, Champion… Ascend!

A promised patch t' adjust the difficulty found during a late game combat sequence in God a War: Ascension has been deployed. Santa Monica Studio Community Strategist Aaron Kaufman posted on the PlayStation Blog t' explained the changes introduced by the game's patch.

Found in Chapter 28 a the game's single-player campaign, the 'Trial a Archimedes' pits Kratos against waves a enemies as he ascends a tower toward Ascension's final chapter. The tweak will now provide players across all difficulties with a slew a "green health orbs 'n a nominal amount a blue magic orbs" after each successive wave, a which there be three.

"In every God a War game, establishing a well-paced difficulty ramp towards the end a the game be paramount t' us. Based on player response, the degree a challenge offered here be short a our goal a being perfectly balanced," Kaufman wrote.

The 1.03 patch also adds new, visual multiplayer customization options called "Marks" that players can obtain based on a number a criteria, including selected allegiance. For more details, check the PlayStation Blog.

A promised patch t' adjust the difficulty found during a late game combat sequence in God a War: Ascension has been deployed, Santa Monica Studio Community Strategist Aaron Kaufman has revealed on the PlayStation Blog.

Found in Chapter 28 a the game's single-player campaign, the 'Trial a Archimedes' pits Kratos against waves a enemies as he ascends a tower toward Ascension's final chapter. Originally felt t' be too difficult, the tweak will now provide players across all difficulties with a slew a "green health orbs 'n a nominal amount a blue magic orbs" after each successive wave, a which there be three.

"In every God a War game, establishing a well-paced difficulty ramp towards the end a the game be paramount t' us. Based on player response, the degree a challenge offered here be short a our goal a being perfectly balanced," Kaufman wrote.

The 1.03 patch also adds new, visual multiplayer customization options called "Marks" that players can obtain based on a number a criteria, including selected allegiance. For more details, check the PlayStation Blog.

Champions! With God a War: Ascension out in the wild for two weeks now, we’re seeing our ever-growing community becoming a legion a champions in multiplayer 'n thousands conquering Kratos’ latest single-player journey. We’ve been listening t' every bit a constructive feedback on our boards, Twitter, Facebook, here on PlayStation.Blog, 'n around the internet stratosphere. Rest assured that our development team at Sony Santa Monica be committed t' supporting ye.

FACTOID: Ares be the most popular God allegiance thus far, but also has players with the lowest overall skill rating. Hades be the second most popular, 'n the highest skill rated players, evil incarnate FTW!

We’re pleased t' announce the release a our latest 1.03 update, deploying today. Though this update may be small, it throws an added support line at the Trial a Archimedes, 'n enhances multiplayer customization with a new appearance feature for yer Champion – we call them “Marks”.

We received extensive feedback from the community that the “Trial a Archimedes” section (Chapter 28) near the end a the game be excessively challenging. In every God a War game, establishing a well-paced difficulty ramp towards the end a the game be paramount t' us. Based on player response, the degree a challenge offered here be short a our goal a being perfectly balanced.

In the 1.03 update, at the end a each elevator stage (three total), players will now receive a measured amount a green health orbs 'n a nominal amount a blue magic orbs. This change affects all difficulty levels. We be confident this revision will address feedback regarding “Trial a Archimedes” while still preserving the level a challenge appropriate for this late section a the game.

Thank ye for yer understanding 'n patience. Good fortunes in yer quest t' conquer the Trial a Archimedes 'n complete Kratos’ ascension!

As noted, 1.03 also adds “Marks” for added customization t' yer Champion in multiplayer, 'n 8 additional new tints, including “Ash”. Now ye have an opportunity t' become a “Marked Warrior”. These be the six mark’s we’ve added in this update, with more t' come:

• Mark a the Thief, for HADES
• Mark a the Trojan, for ALL
• Mark a the Spartan, for ALL
• Mark a the Legionnaire, for ARES
• Mark a the Mercenary, for ZEUS
• Mark a the Deep, for POSEIDON

Unfortunately, the time necessary t' diagnose 'n explore audio issues cited by many a our fans during their play experiences made a solution in time for inclusion in the 1.03 update unfeasible. Despite this, we be still very aware a these reports, we continue t' monitor user experiences in this regard, 'n we be working as quickly as possible t' find a fix. We understand that this issue be a particular frustration for many a ye in the community; yer patience be greatly appreciated!

This be just the beginning a post-launch support for God a War: Ascension. As stated previously, we have an influx a DLC in the weeks ahead t' support yer strategic play-style, 'n an unannounced 4th weapon class. We’re also exploring other new enhancements we can’t disclose just yet, however ye can try asking The Oracle (aka @SonySantaMonica) – ye never know.

Now do well warrior, ascend! 'n stay in touch with everything God a War on our official site.

Through March 24, if ye buy God a War: Ascension from GameStop.com, ye'll pillage God a War Saga, the PS3 collection with five more God a War games. Don't play them all together, though. ye'd probably start seeing everything as a mythological creature t' be bisected.

Champions, God a War: Ascension has descended upon the world. The Blades a Chaos be back in full force — maybe ye’ve already taken them for a brutal swing this week. Either way, we’re back, 'n this time, here t' support our Champions, the God a War community, in what we hope t' be a growing post-launch success – particularly with our new multiplayer. Our team be excited 'n passionate t' provide our multiplayer community with post-launch – balance updates, upcoming weapon & armor DLC packs, 'n more as the community thrives.

Here be a few links t' help prepare ye for a long weekend a God a War: Ascension:

• All Ascension Info – Everything ye Need t' Know
• Multiplayer Strategy – pillage Beyond The Basics
• How t' Redeem yer Beta Reward
• God a War: The Complete Story

'n be sure t' stay checked-in t' our official site, as we be planning an adrenaline-packed “Game w/ Dev” weekend.

While we be just kicking off the Ascension era, we wanted t' encourage everyone t' visit our Multiplayer General sea t' engage in upcoming community events, learn 'n share strategies with fellow Champions, 'n pillage the direct word from The Gods, our developers. Perhaps even The Boat Captain himself (he makes special appearances). ye can also visit our Community Portal for a direct link t' all a our social channels here at Sony Santa Monica.

t' celebrate the launch a Ascension, we partnered up with Geek & Sundry (run by the lovely Felicia Day), t' establish the Blades a Chaos as the focal point in their new video game weapon series, Arcade Arms. This pilot episode takes an in-depth look at the creation a the blades 'n the original Spartan weapons that influenced it be design. It also features a legit weaponsmith who has t' be seen t' be believed. Geek & Sundry be also running an Ascension giveaway contest that’s super easy t' enter. After ye watch the video hit this link t' enter.

Additionally, YouTube sensation “Tobuscus” took our live action “From Ashes” trailer 'n gave it a very literal makeover. Prepare for a “sad moment, happy moment, sad moment, happy moment, angry moment, sad moment, angry moment, happy moment,” 'n the beat goes on…

God a War Community Happenings

Community legend Spider-Jew has created an Ascension Community Game Night. Beginning this Saturday ('n continuing weekly), he will be streaming Multiplayer matches t' create an atmosphere a epic moments 'n a fun time for everyone getting into the craziness. The events will be on his Twitch channel. If ye be interested in being on the stream, ye can sign up in this thread.

Looking for multiplayer comrades or frenemies? Add yer tag t' this thread t' join others in random bouts.

In need a a guide for those extra pesky areas? Site Gameranx has started a series a complete game video walkthroughs for yer viewing pleasure.

Finally, in the lead up t' the launch a Ascension, we have seen some a the most incredible fan-art we could ever imagine. Our art team has the highest respect for each a these skilled artists. We recently launched a Fandom section on our official website. If ye feel ye have something worthy a the gods’ selection, please drop us a line.

One a our personal favorites.

Do well Champions — Ascend!

Chat with fellow PS gamers in our seas! There’s plenty t' talk about, with different sections including:

PlayStation Plus
PlayStation Home
PS Trophy Leaderboard
Whatever ye want (aka Off-Topic area)

Win PlayStation games 'n products Wednesdays on Twitter! Follow @HeyPlayStation on Twitter for more details.

Friday, March 15th

Battle Bowl II Qualifier
POW II TacMap
PlayStation Campus Tour – Portland State University

Saturday, March 16th

Battle Bowl II Qualifier
POW II TacMap
Uncharted 3: Naughty Paws
PlayStation All Stars Saturday Smackdown
Gran Turismo: Saturday Racing

Sunday, March 17th

Battle Bowl II Qualifier
POW II TacMap

One particular section a Sony Santa Monica's God a War: Ascension has players quite miffed: the Trial a Archimedes. it be a long gameplay encounter near the end a the game, with no checkpoints 'n few health drops.

Game director Todd Papy took t' Twitter t' say the developer be "looking into patching it" now. "I personally tuned it. I didn't mean for it t' be so hard. We be looking into patching it," Pappy wrote in one tweet. In another, he said the patch be likely t' arrive "very soon."

God a War: Ascension launched on PS3 this week. In our review, we likened Ascension t' "a car riding in the spectacle slipstream a it be predecessors, never quite able t' surpass them."

An angry, bald Ryan Davis exposes brains, boobs, 'n a multiplayer mode that might be kind a cool?

#godofwar There's a Trophy in the new PS3 game God a War: Ascension that rewards ye for scoring a thousand-hit combo. Imagine the bloody combat artistry required t' win this accolade! Imagine using the game's wonderfully-varied arsenal a combat maneuvers. More »

God a War: Now With Multiplayer be what Ascension could have been called. Much like our review, other outlets found the single-player campaign satisfactory. it be in the multiplayer portion a Ascension where opinions begin t' differ 'n scores diverge based on how much importance be placed on this evolution a the franchise.

• Destructoid (90/100): "God a War has never looked or played better than this. Kratos has never been as deep or interesting as this. They've set the bar so high that I have no idea how they'll be able t' follow this one up. Sony Santa Monica best be proud. Series fans best be proud."
• Gamespot (80/100): "The single-player be where ye best spend yer time. No, it doesn't quite reach the audacious 'n rage-filled moments a God a War: Ascension's predecessors, nor does it move the series forward in any way, but it be skilfully put together, 'n wonderfully satisfying t' play."
• GamesRadar (70/100): "Also somewhat disappointing be the newly added multiplayer features, which be held up by clever level design 'n strong game modes, but smacked down by uninteresting gameplay. It sounds great in theory, but in practice it turns out there's nothing less fun than being beat up by someone as powerful as Kratos."
• VideoGamer (70/100): "The multiplayer component be as fresh as the single-player be familiar. Ask yourself what ye're after from a God a War game: if ye desire only t' step into the boots a gaming's most brutish, then ye may find Ascension wanting. If, however, ye're open t' the idea a taking on the mantle a another Spartan hero, ye'll find it a limb-lopping, head-popping delight. Just don't tell Kratos, eh?"
• Edge (70/100): "Consider our expectations defied: this be the star a the show. While this series' singleplayer template be showing it be age, there's plenty in Ascension's multiplayer that deserves t' survive the transition t' PS4."

#review For the first four 'n a half hours a the new God a War, ye'd be forgiven for thinking that the game be made by malfunctioning robots. More »

PlayStation mateys,

God a War: Ascension be out in North America today! It represents the culmination a two 'n a half years a blood, sweat, 'n tears on behalf a the God a War team at Santa Monica Studio.

We wanted t' create the best looking, best playing, most compelling entry in the series t' date, a game that took every aspect a the experience t' a new level, that sought t' show long-time fans a different side a the iconic Kratos character, 'n that added something entirely new yet addictively deep t' the franchise: multiplayer, which many a ye joined us in playing 'n improving during our Beta weeks ago.

We put a great deal a thought 'n effort into the multiplayer modes ye’ll discover in Ascension, including the recently revealed 2-player cooperative Trial a the Gods. Supporting this new addition t' the God a War universe 'n the community we’re hopeful builds around it for a while t' come be a the utmost importance t' us.

Looking forward t' being among the first t' receive access t' an exclusive early demo a The Last a Us, included in each retail copy a God a War: Ascension? The new target date upon which that access will be unlocked (via the God a War: Ascension main menu) be May 31st, 2013. Pick up a copy a Ascension so ye can be one a the first t' check it out!

t' that end, we can today confirm a substantial DLC plan, among which will be new armor 'n weapons sets, new stages t' battle in, 'n much more. All a this will be free for owners a the Ascension Collector’s Edition, since it includes a comprehensive Season Pass (which will not be available outside a the CE).

We’ll have plenty more info in the coming weeks at our official site, www.godofwar.com, as we execute on our extensive schedule… Stay tuned!

Ascension’s multiplayer mode, a series first, be about t' go live for players around the world. Finally, we’re excited t' reveal the fourth, 'n last, a the Gods with whom ye may ally yourself: Hades.

a all a the allegiances, Hades’ executioners have the highest versatility 'n variety a abilities. With the ability t' curse, drain life, become invisible, 'n create large hazards (all in one load-out), the followers a Hades be able t' control the flow a battle. Hades be neither the strongest offensively nor defensively, but careful tailoring through armors 'n weapons, based on the situation t' subsidize this, will help push ye towards whatever role ye want t' fill — ye will be able t' do it all.

It’s been a long journey since 2010. We can’t wait t' hear yer thoughts on the game, 'n meet on the battlefield online.

In the race for spectacle, Sony Santa Monica's God a War franchise be constantly attempting t' lap itself. From striking down a god t' tearing down giants, it would seem there be few bodies - human, mythical being, god or behemoth - left for Kratos t' shatter. In response t' the angry protagonist's bloody evolution, Santa Monica has ventured t' the only place left for Kratos t' wage war: the past.

God a War: Ascension tells the story a Kratos before the events a his all-out war against Ares, the Greek God a War. But the narrative fabric woven throughout the franchise has begun t' split, 'n Ascension's thinly constructed premise does little t' enhance it be characters in any meaningful way.

it be narrative issues aside, Ascension provides the distinct God a War flair required t' eradicate all that stands in Kratos' way. Wielding a familiar set a chained blades, the popular anti-hero fluidly works his murder-pinwheel magic t' perfection. The combat system, however, be less complicated than before, abandoning an arsenal a collected weaponry in favor a sticking with Kratos' trusty, sharp sidekicks. it be Kratos at his least materialistic, eschewing the pack-rat mentality a previous entries in favor a simplicity.