God of War: Ascension's competitive multiplayer mode revealed

Combining the franchise's combat and scale with new unique gameplay.

God of War: Ascension will be released exclusively for PS3, Sony Computer Entertainment has announced.

Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios' Santa Monica Studio God of War: Ascension, a prequel that will see players take on the role of the ex-Spartan warrior, Kratos, as he finds a way to break the blood oath that binds him to the god, Ares.

Six months after being tricked into killing his wife and child, a younger Kratos is sentenced to a life of madness with the Furies, caged in a Titan sized prison for the living damned. Fighting insanity, his will is tested to the limit as he seeks to break his bond and gain the clarity to seek revenge on Ares for his part in the death of his family.

"The bar is set quite high for this franchise as each God of War title succeeds in being better than the last," said Todd Pappy, game director, God of War: Ascension, SCE WWS Santa Monica Studios. "But, unlike previous releases, we're providing a deeper look into Kratos' tormented past and psyche that fans have not seen before. Combined with refined gameplay, jaw-dropping visuals, and a fresh twist on competitive gaming with our new online multiplayer mode, I guarantee that God of War: Ascension will give fans what they have been eagerly waiting for, and much more."

For the first time ever in a God of War game, players can compete in online or offline multiplayer battles. Based on the single-player campaign, this brand new element can include up to eight players and offers a variety of different multiplayer modes along with customisable avatar warriors, armour and weapon types.

Players will have the option to align themselves with one of four of the legendary Greek gods – Zeus, Ares, Poseidon or Hades and earn their approval to unlock new customisation options.

Whilst multiplayer is the major new selling point, GOW Ascension promises visual and gameplay improvements across the board.

Sony says that thanks to state-of-the-art visual technologies, Santa Monica Studios has made "significant strides" to bring "unmistakable realism to the gameplay experience".

Fans can expect a revamped combat and weapon system, promptless mini-games, and new puzzle challenges, coupled with fluid, life-like characters, dynamic lighting effects, and world-changing scenarios.

The game's set for release in 2013. Sony's already said the single-player element will be marginally briefer than that found in God of War 3.