'God of War' PS4 release date, news: ESRB listing shows new gameplay details

The promotional photo for "God of War," featuring the game's lead hero Kratos and his son. Facebook.com/GodOfWar

In spite of the teaser images and trailer videos released for the upcoming hack n' slash adventure video game "God of War," the fans are still left with minimal knowledge regarding the PS4 gameplay. Fortunately, ESRB has given an early review and rating for the game, revealing the new creatures and some tidbits from the actual gameplay. As expected from a "God of War" installment, the latest sequel will feature the same action-packed and violent sequences.

As reported by PlayStation LifeStyle, the ESRB listing for "God of War" provides information about the playable characters' movements, as well as the enemy units and bosses that they are going to face. The PS4 gameplay is expected to be bloody, as the game's lead protagonist Kratos uses a variety of bladed weapons to kill his enemies. There are larger enemies that are difficult to take down, including a huge dragon and ogres. 

"Combat is frequent and often bloody, with characters punching and kicking each other repeatedly, using bladed weapons to slash/stab/impale enemies. Larger enemies and bosses are dispatched in more intense sequences of violence," the ESRB description states.

It was also revealed that "God of War" will use profane words in some of the dialogues. For the fans of the "God of War" series, this is a proof that the upcoming title is staying true to its roots. Some players worry that the changes in the game will cause the franchise to take a step back. For one, the latest entry will bring Kratos' adventure to the land of Nordic gods and creatures, while the previous games were centered on Greek gods. The depiction of Kratos as an aging hero, plus the introduction of his son as a subordinate, also caused some doubts.

Meanwhile, Creative Director Cory Balrog revealed at the PSX 2017 earlier this month that the "God of War" gameplay will be much longer than the previous titles. The players are expected to finish the game within 35 hours, unlike its predecessors that can be completed within only 10 hours. With this extended run, Barlog hopes that the players will take the opportunity to explore the game, treating "God of War" as a "tour bus."

"God of War" is scheduled for release in PS4 sometime in 2018.