United Kingdom, March 2 -- A new spin-off set in the God of War universe is reportedly in development at Sony Santa Monica Studio - and this time, Kratos may not be the one wielding the axe.

According to industry insider NateTheHate, the project will centre on Faye - also known as Laufey - the late wife of Kratos and mother of Atreus.

Bloomberg's Jason Schreier previously teased that the studio's next title was "not a new IP but it might feel like one", fuelling speculation that Sony Santa Monica was preparing to expand the franchise in a new direction.

NateTheHate wrote online: "Yes, the game is set within the God of War universe and the lead character will be Faye."

The leaker added that the current plan is a reveal later this year ...