Basics
Combos
In God of War III, it's important to thoughtfully string together attacks that build off one another to maximize damage and keep enemies indisposed for as long as possible. Kratos can perform both light and strong attacks that when alternately chained together can produce some devastating combos. There is an in-game move list that you can consult to read up on some of the special attacks Kratos can perform with each weapon.
Defense
You've often heard that defense is the best offense. In Kratos' case, this is very often true. Kratos has a Golden Fleece that allows him to deflect enemy attacks and even retaliate as long as you press L1 (block) just as the enemy makes contact. A successful Golden Fleece counter glows and is extremely valuable in combat.
Quick Time Events
The game relies heavily on your ability to press buttons that flash on-screen for a few seconds to advance the storyline or finish off special enemies. These randomized button sequences are referred to as Quick Time Events (QTE) and usually utilizes most of the buttons available on the PS3 controller. So, don't put down your controller during long cinematic, as you may miss an opportunity to perform a QTE. Failure in correctly pressing a button usually ends in some detrimental effects for Kratos.
Upgrading Weapons & Items
Red Orbs are used to upgrade the weapons and items that Kratos collects throughout his quest for vengeance. Each weapon is maxed out at Level 5, whereas the items will be maxed out after one upgrade. There will be more than ample Orbs near the end of the game to upgrade everything, but in the beginning you must decide carefully which weapon is to be powered up first. The Cyclone Chaos attack with the Blades of Exile is large crowd-cleaner, and so we recommend starting with that.
Orbs
There are three different colored Orbs interspersed throughout the game among enemies, chests, and objects: red, green, and blue. Red Orbs are experience Orbs that can be spent on upgrading weapons and items. These are easily the most abundant in the game, as enemies often relinquish many when killed and they can also be found from chests and by smashing urns. The green Orbs replenish Kratos' health, whereas the blue Orbs replenish Kratos' magic meter.
Power Ups & Collectibles
Throughout the game are special ornate chests that contain one of three items: A Phoenix Feather, a Gorgon Eye, or a Minotaur Horn. Phoenix Feather augments the blue magic meter; a Gorgon Eye increases the maximum health meter, and a Minotaur Horn increases the item meter. Collect three of each to upgrade the corresponding meter. Aside from these upgrades, you will also find unique Godly possessions that grant special abilities to Kratos during a second playthrough. Keep in mind that upon activation of these items you may not be able to gain Trophies. Later on, when you've collected everything there is to collect the special chests will contain a plethora of red Orbs instead.
