Vikings, Gods, and Blood Feuds: The Story Behind Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla

18 December 2024

Let’s be real: there’s something irresistibly compelling about the Viking Age. The roaring longships, the thunderous clash of axes, and the larger-than-life myths of Norse gods all come together to create a period that feels both terrifying and awe-inspiring. Ubisoft clearly felt the same way when they crafted Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, an epic adventure that plunges players into the heart of this brutal yet fascinating era. But what’s the real story behind the game? What inspired this massive, blood-soaked Viking saga, and how much of it is rooted in actual history or mythology? Let’s dive in. Grab your horned helmet (or don’t—it’s a myth, after all), and let the journey begin!

A Land of Ice, Fire, and Endless Feuds: The Historical Backdrop

First, let’s set the stage. Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla takes place during a pivotal period in history: the late 9th century. This was the age of Norse expansion. The Vikings, driven by hunger, ambition, and the promise of plunder, were sailing across the seas, leaving their mark—sometimes quite literally—with battle axes. This was the time of blood feuds, clan rivalries, and a fierce desire for survival.

But what makes this era so compelling isn’t just the violence; it’s the clash of cultures. You’ve got the pagan Norse coming face-to-face with the more "civilized" Christian kingdoms of Anglo-Saxon England. And boy, was it messy. Think of it like oil meeting water—except the oil has a sword, and the water has a cross. This cultural friction is woven seamlessly into the game, as players navigate a world where loyalty and belief systems are constantly being tested.

Eivor: The Viking You Never Knew You Wanted to Be

Now let’s talk about the star of the show: Eivor. Whether you choose to play as a male or female Viking (because gender fluidity in video games is chef’s kiss), Eivor is a leader, a fighter, and, let’s be honest, a bit of a troublemaker. They helm a Raven Clan that’s looking to carve out a fresh start in England—a land that’s as ripe for opportunity as it is drenched in blood.

But Eivor isn’t just about swinging axes and raiding monasteries, although there’s plenty of that to go around. They’re also deeply tied to Norse mythology, particularly to Odin, the All-Father himself. This connection between Eivor and Odin adds a layer of mysticism to the game, blurring the lines between history and myth. It’s like Ubisoft handed you a history book and then dunked it in a barrel of mead with a dash of the supernatural. And honestly? We’re here for it.

Norse Mythology: Gods, Monsters, and a Healthy Dose of Chaos

Okay, let’s pause for a second and talk about Norse mythology. It’s wild. Unlike Greek myths, which are often about lessons or morals, Norse myths are chaotic, unpredictable, and, frankly, a little nihilistic. The gods aren’t immortal. The end of the world—Ragnarök—is inevitable. It’s like a cosmic soap opera where everyone’s kind of doomed, but they’re still trying their best.

Ubisoft sprinkles these mythological elements throughout Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla. Players can explore legendary locations like Asgard and Jotunheim through powerful visions, meet iconic figures like Thor and Loki, and even wield weapons like Thor’s hammer, Mjolnir. They’ve essentially taken the tapestry of Norse mythology and woven it into the gameplay, which is a dream come true for mythology nerds like me (and probably you, since you’re reading this).

But don’t worry—it’s not just a mythology lesson. The game makes it feel personal. Eivor’s visions of Odin, for example, aren’t just for show; they reflect the character’s internal struggles, the weight of leadership, and the brutality that comes with Viking life. It’s storytelling at its finest: larger-than-life yet deeply human.

Blood Feuds and Brotherhood: The Heart of Viking Life

At its core, Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla isn’t just about gods and glory—it’s about people. Viking society was built on tight-knit communities, loyalty to your clan, and, yes, the occasional feud that spilled a little blood. Okay… a lot of blood.

The game nails this aspect of Viking culture. From forging alliances with other clans to dealing with betrayals, the idea of loyalty is front and center. And let’s not forget the settlement-building aspect. Eivor’s Ravensthorpe settlement isn’t just a gameplay mechanic—it’s a reflection of the Viking spirit. These warriors weren’t just pillagers; they were settlers and builders, too. They sought not just to destroy but to create, to carve out a place for themselves in an unforgiving world.

And then there’s the blood feud element. Oh, it’s juicy. The game's narrative dives deep into this concept, with rivalries and vendettas that make Game of Thrones look tame. It’s not just about who has the sharpest blade—it’s about who can outwit, outlast, and out-loyal their enemies. Think of it like chess, but with way more decapitations.

The Gameplay: A Viking’s Toolkit for Chaos

Let’s be honest—half the fun of Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla is the gameplay. It’s satisfying, brutal, and oh-so-Viking. Whether you’re storming a castle or sneaking through the shadows, the game lets you approach every scenario in a way that fits your playstyle.

Want to be stealthy like a true Assassin? Go for it. Want to charge in with a battle-cry and dual-wield axes like a maniac? Absolutely. The combat system is flexible, visceral, and just plain fun. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the raids. There’s nothing quite like rowing up to a monastery, sounding your war horn, and letting chaos unfold. It’s cathartic, in the most Viking way possible.

But it’s not all about combat. The game also offers a sprawling open world that’s begging to be explored. From the rolling hills of England to the stunning fjords of Norway, the environments are breathtaking. And with mysteries to solve, treasures to plunder, and side quests that range from serious to downright goofy (looking at you, “flyting” battles), there’s always something to keep you busy.

The Accuracy Question: History vs. Fiction

Now, let’s tackle the big question: how accurate is Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla? The short answer? It’s a bit of both. Ubisoft has done a fantastic job of grounding the game in historical details, from the architecture to the political landscape of 9th-century England. But they’ve also taken some liberties, especially when it comes to the mythology and Eivor’s supernatural experiences. And honestly, I’m fine with that.

After all, the game isn’t trying to be a history textbook. It’s trying to tell a great story. And by blending historical accuracy with mythological flourishes, it creates an experience that feels immersive, engaging, and, most importantly, fun. Who wouldn’t want to fight alongside Odin or explore the mysteries of Asgard while sailing the rivers of England?

Why Valhalla Stands Out in the Franchise

So, what sets Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla apart from other games in the series? For starters, it masterfully balances the old and the new. While it retains the stealth and parkour elements that made the franchise famous, it also leans heavily into RPG mechanics, offering players more choices than ever before. Want to focus on diplomacy over combat? You can do that. Want to romance NPCs and live your best Viking love life? Go for it.

Plus, the game’s focus on myth and legend adds a fresh twist. While previous titles like Origins and Odyssey dabbled in mythology, Valhalla goes all in, making it feel like a story that’s as much about gods and destiny as it is about history. It’s a bold move, and it pays off.

Conclusion: A Viking Saga Worth Telling

At the end of the day, Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla is more than just a game. It’s a love letter to the Viking Age, a tribute to Norse mythology, and an exploration of what it means to lead, to fight, and to carve out your place in the world. Whether you’re a die-hard Assassin’s Creed fan or someone who just loves all things Viking, there’s something here for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Boot up your console, channel your inner Eivor, and get ready to conquer England—or at least die trying. Skål!