How Volgarr the Viking 2 Cleverly Incorporates Norse Mythology

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How Volgarr the Viking 2 Cleverly Incorporates Norse Mythology

Highlights

  • Volgarr the Viking 2 stands out from other Norse mythology video games by adapting a loose framework of famous sagas.
  • Lead developer Krisofor Dürrschmidt describes the game as a “Viking fantasy” with ties to traditional Norse mythology.
  • The game’s difficult gameplay and narrative focus on mortal protagonist Volgarr’s journey make it an entertaining experience.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt and a soft spot for Norse mythology, I must admit that Volgarr the Viking 2 has piqued my interest. The game’s unique approach to Norse mythology, blending it with western fantasy elements while keeping its narrative grounded in mortal protagonist Volgarr’s journey, is a refreshing change from the usual god-centric games we often see in this genre.

Modern gaming is seeing a resurgence in Norse mythology, and the upcoming indie game “Volgarr the Viking 2” is keeping this trend alive. Immersed in the realm of Norse gods, creatures, and sorcery, it shares the same roots as other games. However, unlike its peers, “Volgarr the Viking 2” is carving its own niche by loosely adapting the epic Scandinavian tales to distinguish itself in the marketplace.

In contrast to modern games like God of War that strictly adhere to Norse mythology, Volgarr the Viking 2 has a more flexible interpretation. As its title implies, Volgarr the Viking revolves around a Viking warrior who battles through throngs of adversaries as he pursues his objectives. In the original game released in 2013, Volgarr embarked on a mission assigned by Odin himself. Along the way, Volgarr received assistance from characters like Thor, though this aid was presented subtly rather than what one might anticipate. The sequel unfolds several years after the initial game, with an older, wiser, and more powerful Volgarr, yet its approach to incorporating Norse mythology remains comparable to that of its predecessor.

Volgarr the Viking 2’s Developer Talks About the Game’s “Viking Fantasy” Setting

Volgarr the Viking 2 Isn’t a Traditional Mythology Story

While Volgarr 2 doesn’t overhaul the themes from Norse mythology, it offers a fresh perspective on the topic. The game’s creator, Krisofor Dürrschmidt, shared some insights with Game Rant about how it approaches its mythological setting.

I’d classify this work as a Viking-style fantasy, incorporating elements of magic and mythical themes reminiscent of Viking tales, albeit not strictly adhering to Norse mythology. While the primary characters and deities are similar to those in ancient sagas, and their actions align with traditional descriptions, the story itself is more akin to a Viking adaptation of Conan the Barbarian, with its own unique narrative separate from established Norse mythology.

Krisofor Dürrschmidt further stated that the game Volgarr the Viking 2 combines elements of western fantasy with its backdrop, yet the vast majority of adversaries players will face are based on Norse mythology. In defense of why Volgarr 2 is adopting a more indirect approach to Norse mythology, he explained that mortals do not control the actions of the gods; rather, the gods shape the actions of mortals. Unlike characters like Kratos from God of War, Volgarr is a human being. He may be strong and intimidating, but he remains a human nonetheless. Although he can gain the favor of the gods, he is not one of them.

The storyline in this game, Volgarr the Viking 2, seems to mirror its challenging gameplay. Similar to the original Volgarr the Viking, Volgarr 2 is extremely tough. Numerous enemies in its realm are capable of instantly defeating the player with a single strike, though this might vary based on the equipment collected. The character Volgarr being human yet influenced by gods underscores the game’s core message: the world is treacherous, hazardous, and potentially lethal; however, determination and skill are the only tools that can safeguard a mortal.

In essence, Volgarr the Viking 2 isn’t a game that’s rooted in reality. While players don’t engage with gods directly, they can undeniably sense their influence. For instance, Volgarr’s perpetual shield is emblazoned with Mjolnir, Thor’s hammer symbol, and its strength is reminiscent of the God of Thunder. The Valkyries, legendary shield maidens of Asgard, also play significant roles in Volgarr’s journey, giving the game a distinctly mythical atmosphere. Furthermore, Dürrschmidt hinted at a crucial encounter with a prominent god in Volgarr the Viking 2, stating “It’s a pivotal moment if you manage to pull it off.”

On August 6, 2024, Volgarr the Viking 2 will be available for play on PlayStation 5, personal computers, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, as well as last-generation gaming consoles.

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2024-08-01 15:23