Exploring the optional realms in God of War Ragnarok reveals some of the most intricate level design and rewarding content in the game. Players who venture into the hidden Jungle region of Vanaheim will encounter the Return of the River Favor, a crucial side quest that completely transforms the landscape. Completing this objective is essential for unlocking the full potential of The Crater, as it alters environment pathfinding and grants access to hidden boss fights.
Reaching the Hidden Jungle Dam
Before you can begin this side quest, you must first complete the Creatures of Prophecy main story mission to unlock the broader northern wilderness. From the Plains area, travel south through the canyons to enter the dense foliage of the Jungle region. You will eventually notice a massive ancient stone dam blocking the valley's water supply, which serves as your primary destination.
To reach the top of the structure, look for a nearby wall covered in environmental hazards that can be cleared using your runic abilities. Ascend the wooden platforms while dealing with aggressive local wildlife that guards the ruins. Once at the summit, you will find a narrow opening blocked by heavy wooden debris that requires precise explosive tools to destroy.
Opening the Floodgates
After clearing the initial barricade, look across the inner walkway to locate the massive mechanical wheels that control the water level. The mechanism is tightly bound by thick glowing vines that cannot be broken by normal physical strikes. You must place multiple runic sigils along the wall to chain an elemental explosion from Kratos' blades directly to the roots.
Once the vines are incinerated, interact with the heavy wooden crank to manually raise the primary floodgate. A massive torrent of water will immediately rush down into the dried canyon beds below, completely altering the terrain of the entire region. This dramatic environmental shift allows you to utilize boats to navigate areas that were previously completely inaccessible on foot.
Defeating the Dreki and Escaping
With the river successfully restored, your final objective requires you to safely exit the dam facility through the newly flooded channels. Squeeze through the narrow crack on the eastern side of the wall to enter a small enclosed clearing. A powerful Dreki boss will immediately emerge from the rising waters to ambush your party, requiring quick defensive reflexes.
Utilize heavy stun attacks and keep your distance when the creature begins charging the battlefield with dangerous electrical energy. After defeating the beast, interact with the nearby boat dock to secure a vessel and sail back out into the open waters. Navigating through the newly opened channels officially completes the quest and allows you to track down missing regional collectibles.