God of War Sons of Sparta’s Local Co-op Mode Requires Beating the Main Story

The long-rumored 2D spin-off of God of War, Sons of Sparta, was shadow-dropped at the latest State of Play and is available for PS5 at $29.99. However, many were confused by the fact that it’s listed as having co-op despite being single-player. Sony Santa Monica has since clarified that it’s available in an unlockable challenge mode, which requires clearing the main story first.

“After completing Sons of Sparta’s main story, you will unlock a challenge mode that can be played solo or with local 2-player couch co-op.”

While a cool addition – and one clearly meant to be a surprise – some are left wondering why it’s locked behind story completion. The lack of online co-op is also noted as baffling, although it may have required more resources to implement than expected for a “passion project.”

While the rumors pegged it as a 2.5D Metroidvania, God of War Sons of Sparta is more of a side-scrolling action title. It focuses on Kratos in his preteen years, training under the brutal regime of the Spartans alongside his brother Deimos. Developed by Mega Cat Studios, known only for Five Nights at Freddy’s: Into the Pit, players go up against brand-new enemies based on Greek Mythology while wielding a spear, shield, and artifacts.

Those yearning for a more traditional God of War may have to wait a while. Sony Santa Monica also announced that it’s working on God of War Trilogy Remake, but it’s in “very early development” with more news down the line.