God of War First Look Sparks Backlash as Creator David Jaffe Calls Image “So Bad”

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The initial image released for Prime Video’s God of War show is receiving criticism, and it’s not just coming from casual viewers – many are actively voicing their concerns.

David Jaffe, who created the God of War video game series, shared a video on Saturday criticizing an official photo, calling it “terrible” in multiple aspects.

This image of Ryan Hurst as Kratos with Atreus comes straight from an official press release by Amazon Prime Video. Sony, Prime Video, and the official God of War accounts all shared it, confirming it’s genuine and not a leaked or fabricated image.

David Jaffe Slams the First Look Image

Jaffe was blunt, saying the show’s structure had many flaws and was poorly conceived. However, he emphasized that his criticism wasn’t directed at the people who created it.

Look, I get the feeling everyone involved is really giving it their all, but honestly, the current direction just feels… silly. That being said, I’m still holding out hope. Ronald D. Moore is the one calling the shots, and that guy is a powerhouse of talent. I genuinely believe he can pull it together and deliver a fantastic show. I have complete faith in him.

“He Just Looks Stupid”

Look, I wasn’t criticizing Ryan Hurst’s performance as Kratos because he doesn’t look exactly like the game character. My problem was with a specific promotional image – the pose and expression just felt… well, frankly, a little silly. It wasn’t about the actor, it was about a dumb picture.

David Jaffe criticized the specific pose and expression Kratos has in the promotional image, saying it makes him look foolish. He also wondered why Amazon selected that particular image to introduce the character to people unfamiliar with the games.

I was reading an interesting take on that shot – someone suggested it was a deliberate choice to focus on the father-son relationship rather than Kratos’ usual, intense anger. Even they admitted, though, that there were probably better ways to show that! It was put really humorously – they said it honestly looks like Kratos is just… well, you know, doing his business in the woods. It’s a funny image, honestly, and a bit distracting!

Watch the video:

Fans React, and Ryan Hurst Posts a Message

After the first look went public, fans also lit up social media with complaints.

There’s speculation that Ryan Hurst reacted to criticism by sharing a message on Instagram saying, “Don’t believe everything you see on the internet.”

The release of the image sparked rumors, but it’s confirmed to be genuine and was officially provided by Amazon Prime Video. Whatever the intention behind its timing, it wasn’t a fabricated image circulating online.

What We Know About the God of War Series

The upcoming Prime Video series, God of War, has been greenlit for two seasons and is currently being filmed in Vancouver. The show centers on Kratos and Atreus’s journey to honor Faye’s memory by scattering her ashes. Throughout their travels, Kratos attempts to guide his son towards becoming a noble god, while Atreus strives to help his father embrace his humanity.

Ronald D. Moore is overseeing the project as showrunner, executive producer, and writer. The first two episodes are being directed by Frederick E.O. Toye, who has won an Emmy Award. Currently, there’s no confirmed date for when it will be released.

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2026-03-03 06:03