April 2018 marked an exciting milestone for Sony PlayStation; the extraordinary return of one of our all-time favorite video game characters, Kratos. With the aid of his aspirant son, Atreus, the God of War took us on an unforgettable journey that would make setting down our DualShock 4 controllers nearly impossible. If you played the game, you’d likely agree that the story is exceptionally rich and remarkably detailed. So much so that not everything made it into the game! Luckily for us, there’s a new God of War novel that imparts a deeper impression of this epic saga. Santa Monica Studio shared with us their interview of author J.M. Barlog on his motivation for writing the book:
What drew you to write the new God of War novel?
Having worked as a story consultant on God of War II with Cory and Dave Jaffe, I got the wonderful opportunity to not only work with my son, but also delve deeper into the Kratos character and the emerging storyline. As it turned out, Cory won a BAFTA award for God of War II so for me, it was a no-brainer to take on the latest God of War novel.
His story fascinated me far beyond the gameplay and the journey. It offered a rare opportunity to plunge deep into the inner psyche and conflicts of a father/son relationship during a violent era. In all facets of life, it’s the human relationships that challenge us the most. Understanding people is paramount to understanding life.
What might readers expect from the novel over the game?
I chose to dissect the father/son relationship for these complex characters to an extent that goes well beyond the game. Additionally, Freya emerged as a particularly fascinating character to the story, one that allows readers to appreciate the nuances of character not obvious to the gamer during gameplay.
Did you inject any part of you into the novel?
All writers, either consciously or unconsciously, reveal glimpses into their psyches through their writing. God of War offered me a unique opportunity to combine the insights into my mind with glances into Cory’s mind as a young child growing up.
The book is available now on Amazon in both physical and audio formats. In addition, a bonus for God of War fans: the audiobook is narrated by Alastair Duncan who voices Mimir in the game!
Marvel’s Spider-Man Vinyl Record Pre-Order Available Now!
Have you ever found yourself in a moment where you were overrun by emotion by simply being in the right place at the right time? Imagine growing up a Spidey fan and then one day finding yourself watching a recording session of the prodigious soundtrack from the upcoming game, Marvel’s Spider-Man. I was incredibly fortunate to have that moment. What was the experience like? In a word… Amazing! Pun intended. The music was nothing less than moving. I stood there absolutely motionless like a submitted fly trapped in web. If you’re a Marvel fan, you’re going to want to snare this vinyl. Get yours before they’re gone!
Available for pre-order online now on Mondo’s website!
Gear Glimpse – PAX West
That’s right, PlayStation fans! We’re coming to PAX West for the first time ever! Here’s a sneak peek at fan-favorite PlayStation Gear that will be available for purchase* at PAX West 2018.
If you’re able to attend the show, be sure to visit the store on Level 4, Booth #217 near the Skybridge.
Show Hours
Friday, August 31
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, September 1
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, September 2
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Monday, September 3
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
*Credit cards only. No cash. All sales final. No returns, exchanges, or refunds. While supplies last. Product subject to change.
Gear Fan of the Month: Joel “J-Tight” Alexander
#GearCommsFan
Joel demonstrates how to level up home decor by adding an abundance of PlayStation merchandise. I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely borrowing decorating ideas from J-Tight!
Would you like to be featured as a Gear Fan of the Month? If so, get those cameras ready, rock your PlayStation Gear (only PlayStation merchandise in the pic please), and snap away! Post your photos on social media using hashtag #GearCommsFan for your chance to be included in an upcoming Gear Comms Issue!
