When players step into the world of Norse mythology brought to life by Santa Monica Studio, one of the most enduring elements is the journey of its central anti-hero. Kratos, the Ghost of Sparta, wields a brutal and iconic set of tools for violence, and his primary weapon in the earlier saga was a specific, legendary item. Understanding what this tool is called provides insight into the character’s evolution and the design philosophy behind the franchise. The name of Kratos’s axe is the Leviathan Axe.
The Leviathan Axe: Origins and Design
Introduced in the 2018 reboot, the Leviathan Axe serves as the direct successor to the Blades of Chaos. While its predecessors were fiery, chained blades gifted by the god Ares, the Leviathan Axe represents a distinct shift in both narrative and combat. The weapon is a two-handed ice-themed battle axe, and its design is heavily inspired by Mjölnir, the hammer of Thor from Norse mythology. The head of the axe is forged from a rare, icy metal, and it is imbued with the elemental power of frost, reflecting the cold, calculated nature of its new owner.
Functionality and Combat Mechanics
Unlike the purely offensive focus of the Blades of Chaos, the Leviathan Axe introduced a puzzle-solving and traversal element to the gameplay. The most notable feature is its ability to freeze enemies and environmental objects solid with a charged throw. Players can then shatter these frozen targets for massive damage or use the throw to activate distant mechanisms. Furthermore, the axe possesses a unique momentum-based throw mechanic, allowing Kratos to ricochet the weapon off walls and enemies, making it a versatile tool for both crowd control and navigating the game’s intricate environments.
Significance in the Story of Kratos
The choice of weaponry is never arbitrary in this series, and the Leviathan Axe is deeply tied to the narrative of the 2018 game. Kratos finds the weapon in the corpse of a giant mythical creature named the Leviathan, which he encounters in the frozen lands of Midgard. This act signifies his transition from a warrior defined by rage to a father trying to protect his son, Atreus. The axe is not just a tool; it is a symbol of his new life in the Norse realm, representing a cooler, more calculated approach to the violence that once consumed him.
Upgrades and Customization
Throughout the game, players have the ability to modify and enhance the Leviathan Axe to suit their playstyle. By collecting Hacksilver, an in-game currency, players can visit the Witch’s hut to unlock runic attacks that imbue the axe with elemental effects such as fire, poison, and shock. The weapon can also be physically upgraded to increase its durability and damage output. This modular approach to gear ensures that the axe remains a powerful and relevant tool from the beginning of the adventure to the final confrontation.
Distinguishing It From Other Gear
It is important to differentiate the Leviathan Axe from other weapons Kratos utilizes. While he later acquires a magical shield and various secondary weapons, the axe remains his primary instrument of destruction. Players should not confuse it with the later-added Spear of Destiny or the Guardian Shield. The Leviathan Axe is the iconic close-quarters weapon that defined the combat of the Norse era, setting the tone for the entire series reboot.
Legacy and Fan Reception
The reception of the Leviathan Axe was overwhelmingly positive, cementing its status as one of the most recognizable pieces of gaming hardware of the decade. Fans immediately connected with the weapon’s satisfying weight and the strategic depth of freezing mechanics. The success of the design was so profound that it influenced merchandise, fan art, and even debates within the community about the best upgrades. The axe solidified the visual identity of the new Kratos, ensuring that players would instantly associate the frosty weapon with the Spartan’s second act.
