The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the critically acclaimed video game series God of War is moving forward, and Amazon Prime Video has offered fans their first glimpse of Ryan Hurst as Kratos and Callum Vinson as his son, Atreus. The image, released on February 27, 2026, has sparked a mixed reaction online, with some praising the commitment to the characters’ appearances while others have expressed disappointment with the initial appear. The series, currently in production, aims to bring the epic Norse mythology-inspired story to a wider audience.
The first-look photo, shared via the official God of War X account, depicts a scene reminiscent of the 2018 game: Atreus drawing his bow while Kratos observes with a stern expression. The image quickly circulated online, accompanied by the caption, “Father and Son. Behold your first look at Kratos and Atreus in the God of War series now in production for @primevideo. Their journey to the highest peak begins.”
While the costumes appear to align with the characters’ established looks in the game, the initial response from fans has been largely critical. Many took to social media to question the realism of the image, with some suggesting it resembles AI-generated artwork. Comments ranged from concerns about the portrayal of Kratos appearing “ridiculous” and like a “TV advertisement” to comparisons to budget retailers, with one user stating it “looks like TEMU Kratos.”
Father and Son. Behold your first look at Kratos and Atreus in the God of War series now in production for @primevideo. Their journey to the highest peak begins. pic.twitter.com/iDzyuSpl5A
— God of War (@godofwaronprime) February 27, 2026
It’s important to note that this initial image may not represent the final appearance of the characters in the series. It could be a preliminary costume test or a still from early production. However, the negative reaction highlights the high expectations fans have for this adaptation.
The series, which has already received a two-season order from Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Television, will follow Kratos and Atreus as they journey to spread the ashes of their wife and mother, Faye. The storyline will explore Kratos’ attempts to guide his son towards becoming a better god, while Atreus strives to teach his father how to be a more compassionate human being.
Ryan Hurst, known for his role as Thor in the 2022 video game God of War Ragnarok, will portray Kratos. Callum Vinson, whose previous credits include Chucky, Long Bright River, and Poker Face, will take on the role of Atreus. The cast similarly includes Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Ed Skrein as Baldur, Max Parker as Heimdall, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Thor, Teresa Palmer as Sif, Alastair Duncan as Mimir, Jeff Gulka as Sindri, and Danny Woodburn as Brok.
Ronald D. Moore, the showrunner and executive producer known for his function on Outlander and For All Mankind, is leading the creative direction of the series. He also serves as a writer, alongside co-executive producers Joe Menosky, Marc Bernardin, Tania Lotia, and Ben McGinnis. Frederick E.O. Toye, who has directed episodes of Shōgun and The Boys, will direct the first two episodes.
The production of the God of War series is a collaboration between Sony Pictures Television, Amazon MGM Studios, PlayStation Productions, and Tall Ship Productions. Executive producers include Maril Davis, Cory Barlog, Naren Shankar, Matthew Graham, Asad Qizilbash, Jeff Ketcham, Hermen Hulst, Roy Lee, and Brad Van Arragon.
While an official release date for the God of War series has not yet been announced, a 2027 premiere remains a possibility. A second season has already been commissioned, indicating confidence in the project’s potential. Fans eager for more information can expect further updates as production progresses.
The first image has undoubtedly ignited a conversation among fans, and the coming months will reveal how the series will ultimately translate the beloved video game into a live-action format. The team behind the adaptation faces the challenge of meeting the high expectations of a dedicated fanbase while delivering a compelling and faithful retelling of the God of War story.
What are your thoughts on the first look at Kratos and Atreus? Share your reactions and discuss the upcoming series in the comments below.
