While I could see it coming off as "safe" and understated, this game accomplishes what few can narratively. I don't often find myself invested in story-centric games to this degree. From the opening cutscene I was sucked in and the game continued to deliver memorable moments all the way until the credits. It's not that it tackles a unique subject matter, but it's that the game comes at it through the lens of Kratos and this world of gods and mythos. The obnoxious fast travel system and re-use of minibosses does hamper the experience a bit, but the combat is so meaty and fun I didn't mind.