The 11 Best Norse Mythology Games You Need to Play

The 11 Best Norse Mythology Games You Need to Play

From sprawling RPGs to thrilling action adventures, delve into the rich tapestry of Norse mythology with these eleven captivating games.

For centuries, the tales of Norse mythology have captivated audiences with their epic battles, powerful gods, and morally ambiguous heroes. Now, the immersive world of Asgard, Midgard, and beyond has found a new home: video games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the genre, these eleven titles offer a diverse and thrilling exploration of Norse legends.

First, we have the behemoth that is God of War (2018). This critically acclaimed action-adventure masterpiece reimagines Kratos’ journey, placing him within the brutal and beautiful landscapes of Norse mythology. The visceral combat, stunning visuals, and deeply emotional narrative make it a must-play for any fan of the genre, or indeed, anyone who appreciates a compelling story.

Next, we delve into the RPG realm with titles like Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. This psychological horror game utilizes the chilling imagery and haunting atmosphere of Norse mythology to craft a unique and unforgettable experience. The game’s innovative sound design and focus on mental health make it a truly groundbreaking title.

For those seeking a more traditional RPG experience, consider exploring games like Jotun: Valhalla Edition. This beautiful hand-drawn adventure sees you battling giants to prove your worth to the Norse gods. It offers a unique artistic style and challenging gameplay.

For a different take, there’s Northgard, a strategy game where you lead a Viking clan to conquer a mysterious new continent. Mastering resource management, diplomacy, and strategic warfare is key to surviving the harsh environments and outmaneuvering your rivals.

Then we have the less common but highly engaging genre of rogue-likes. Games like Vagrant Story and its spiritual successors offer a unique blend of challenging gameplay, Norse-inspired aesthetics, and compelling loot systems. These games offer high replayability with their constantly changing challenges and rewarding combat.

On the more action-packed side, we have titles like Vikings: Wolves of Midgard which provides a fast-paced hack-and-slash experience filled with intense battles against mythical creatures. It’s a straightforward, fun game that doesn’t shy away from delivering pure action.

Moving away from the action, there’s a wealth of smaller titles worth considering. Games like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, while not purely Norse mythology-focused, incorporate significant elements, allowing players to explore the historical settings and encounter iconic figures from Norse lore.

For a card game twist, look no further than The Elder Scrolls Online’s Greymoor expansion, which features an intriguing storyline intertwined with the mythology. The unique gameplay loop provides hours of enjoyment while still offering a glimpse into the lore.

Rounding out the list, we have strategy games like Total War: Warhammer II, which, while not exclusively Norse, features several factions inspired by Norse mythology, offering an experience that blends strategy and lore effectively.

Finally, we can’t forget the recently released Valheim. This survival-crafting game has taken the world by storm with its stunning visuals and addictive gameplay loop, set against a backdrop inspired by Norse mythology. It’s a perfect blend of exploration, construction, and combat, all within a richly detailed world. This diverse selection showcases the breadth and depth of Norse mythology’s influence on the gaming world, ensuring there’s something for every player to enjoy.

Veteran game reviewer and news specialist, providing informed commentary and critical analysis of video games for 13 years. With expertise spanning diverse genres and platforms, he offer a nuanced perspective on the ever-evolving gaming landscape.

6 comments

comments user
Leif Ericson

Excellent overview! I’ve played God of War (2018) and Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, both masterpieces in their own right. The list’s breadth is impressive, showcasing the diverse ways Norse mythology is represented in gaming. I’m definitely adding Jotun and Northgard to my list.

comments user
BjornIronside

Great list, but I think you missed a few key titles. Where’s For Honor? Its Viking faction is incredibly well-done and captures the brutality of Norse warfare. Also, I’m a bit disappointed you didn’t include more indie games. There are so many hidden gems out there!

comments user
Astrid42

This post has inspired me to finally try Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice! The mental health aspect is something that really resonates with me, and the art style looks captivating. Thank you for compiling this comprehensive list!

comments user
RagnarTheRed

As a huge fan of Norse mythology, this is a fantastic resource. I especially appreciate the inclusion of less mainstream titles like Vagrant Story. The list highlights the creativity and variety within the genre. I’m excited to dive into some of these games I haven’t played yet!

comments user
ValkyrieQueen

While I appreciate the effort, I feel the inclusion of games like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Total War: Warhammer II is a bit of a stretch. They’re great games, but their Norse elements are fairly minor compared to the other titles listed. A more focused list on purely Norse-themed games would have been more impactful.

comments user
Loki’sTrickster

This is a superb collection of games that truly capture the essence of Norse mythology. The variety of genres showcased is a testament to the enduring power of these ancient stories. I’m particularly excited to check out Valheim, it’s been on my radar for a while now.