After two and a half years the next installment in the PlayStation game series God of War has finally arrived. God of War: Ascension was released this morning in North America and is expected to be a major hit for developer Santa Monica Studio.

In a statement the developers said:

"We wanted to create the best looking, best playing, most compelling entry in the series to date, a game that took every aspect of the experience to a new level, that sought to show long-time fans a different side of the iconic Kratos character, and that added something entirely new yet addictively deep to the franchise: multiplayer, which many of you joined us in playing and improving during our Beta weeks ago.

God of War: Ascension includes all new multiplayer modes, co-op "Trial of the Gods" mode and much more. The developers also officially announced a "substantial" DLC plan that will bring forth new weapons, armor, as well as stages to battle in. Owners of God of War: Ascension Collector's Edition will receive all of the DLC for free.