It's the end of the world as we know it.
God of War Ragnarok screenshot

A more detailed and more fully fleshed out story synopsis for God of War Ragnarök was published by Sony and Santa Monica Studio by way of the PlayStation Store. Previously, the game's store page included a rather sparse synopsis but the new one provides some additional details on the story that players will experience.

The longer synopsis confirms that the game takes place during Ragnarök and in the period leading up to Ragnarök that is called Fimbulwinter. Fimbulwinter is a "great winter" period leading into Ragnarök. In Norse mythology, this is essentially the story about the end (and subsequent rebirth) of the world. Several gods and notable figures die during huge battles that occur during Ragnarök. The world is ravaged by extreme natural disasters, ending with the entire world being submerged under water. The world is then born anew thanks to the surviving gods.

Of course, with how some events played out in 2018's God of War, this fate of the world and the gods may not be quite set in stone.

From Santa Monica Studio comes the sequel to the critically acclaimed God of War (2018). Fimbulwinter is well underway. Kratos and Atreus must journey to each of the Nine Realms in search of answers as Asgardian forces prepare for a prophesied battle that will end the world. Along the way they will explore stunning, mythical landscapes, and face fearsome enemies in the form of Norse gods and monsters. The threat of Ragnarök grows ever closer. Kratos and Atreus must choose between their own safety and the safety of the realms.
We do also know that players will be able to visit all nine realms. New details, such as the Asgardian forces, were not yet known until this longer synopsis was revealed.

God of War Ragnarök is still slated to be released on November 9, 2022 for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.