God of War: Ragnarok’s new mode gives you another reason to play

God of War: Ragnarok was one of the big titles of 2022, and an update released on Wednesday gives fans plenty of reasons to keep coming back. If you still haven’t upgraded to the latest installment in the God of War franchise, now is a good time to pick up your hatchet.

Developer Sony Santa Monica has added a New Game Plus mode to God of War: Ragnarok, which should download automatically for people who have already installed the game on PS4 or PS5. Players who have already completed the God of War sequel can restart the game in the new mode while retaining their weapons, armor, and skills. New Game Plus mode provides more gameplay options and upgrades enemies making them more challenging for players.

If you’re new to God of War: Ragnarok, you’ll need to beat the original game first before trying out the new mode. (We’ve got tips for new players and important story points to remember.)

The update brings new gear and armor, including the Black Bear armor that Kratos wears in the opening sequence, the stripped down Spartan armor for players who want a serious challenge, and the Ares and Zeus armors, which come from from 2018’s God of War.

The New Game Plus mode will allow players to improve their skills with a new level cap. Previously, skills could only go to level 9, but now they can be upgraded to the “plus” versions.

God of War: Ragnarok released on PS5 last November, and Sony said it was the “best-selling first-party launch game in PlayStation history.” In February, the game sold out more than 11 million copies. Many popular games, including Dead Space Remake and Resident Evil 4 Remake, have added New Game Plus modes to keep players engaged even after completing a game.

Sony has also released some of its biggest PC games in recent years, including 2018’s God of War, but there’s no indication whether Ragnarok will make the jump.

See also: CNET’s Best Games of 2022 (That Aren’t Elden Ring)