Santa Monica Studio fans have waited patiently since God of War Ragnarok’s epic Norse finale. A hot Reddit leak on r/GamingLeaksAndRumours claims Xbox insider Shinobi602 expects the studio to unveil their next project at PlayStation’s February 12 State of Play. With Cory Barlog hinting at an ambitious new IP and rumors of a Greek mythology spin-off, this could be the reveal to shake up Sony’s 2026 lineup.
Shinobi602’s State of Play Tease
ResetEra regular Shinobi602, with a stellar track record on PlayStation reveals, dropped that Santa Monica’s next game surfaces at the 60-minute showcase. Past leaks like Starfield ports and Wolverine dates proved spot-on, lending weight here. Expect a trailer or deep dive – perfect timing post-Ragnarok’s Valhalla DLC in 2023.
Studio went dark after Kratos’ Norse saga wrapped, fueling speculation. Jason Schreier confirmed they’re thriving on multiple fronts, including a non-sci-fi project that feels fresh despite existing IP ties.
What Could We See?
Rumors split two ways. Main bet: A 2.5D metroidvania God of War spin-off set in Greece, delayed from 2025. Think side-scrolling Kratos with Leviathan Axe upgrades, Hades-inspired exploration. Bluepoint’s canceled live-service GoW clears the path.
Alternative: Cory Barlog’s technically ambitious IP, teased in a deleted Facebook post as years in making. Not sci-fi, but innovative – maybe fantasy magic or something wildly different. Studio hiring spikes for unannounced titles back both theories.
Santa Monica’s Post-Ragnarok Path
Ragnarok sold 15 million, but Norse arc closed neatly. Spin-offs keep lore alive while mainline GoW (Egypt?) brews. Barlog stressed multiple projects; Greek prequel fits Sony’s portfolio expansion. Canceled sci-fi IP rumors debunked – focus sharpened.
State of Play’s first-party emphasis screams Santa Monica slot alongside Wolverine or Saros. Community craves Kratos returns sans Norse frost.
| Rumor | Genre | Setting | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoW Metroidvania | 2.5D Action | Greek Myth | Insiders 2025 |
| Barlog IP | Ambitious New | TBA (No Sci-Fi) | Cory Post |
| Mainline GoW | 3D Epic | Egypt? | Speculation |
Why Now for Santa Monica?
2026 shapes as PlayStation’s powerhouse year: Ghost of Yotei, Intergalactic teases. Santa Monica reveal balances service games with narrative masterpieces. Shinobi’s timing syncs with Feb 12 stream – co-streamers prep for Blades of Chaos action.
Risks: Overhype if spin-off, not sequel. But studio’s pedigree promises quality. TV adaptation with Ryan Hurst as Kratos amps franchise heat.
FAQs
State of Play reveal confirmed?
Shinobi602 tease; highly likely per pattern.
New IP or GoW?
Not new IP per leaks – feels fresh though.
Greek setting?
Rumored metroidvania spin-off.
Shinobi reliable?
Top Xbox/PlayStation insider.
Mainline sequel when?
2027+; this is side project.
Platforms?
PS5/PC exclusive expected.
Cory Barlog directing?
Leads ambitious project.
Final Thoughts
Santa Monica’s State of Play bow ends the quiet era, priming Kratos fans for Greek glory or bold surprises. Shinobi602’s call amps Thursday’s must-watch status. Blades ready – what myth awaits?