Special world events called “mysteries” are the best example of this approach, replacing traditional sidequests. Valhalla’s open-world content is deliberate and purposeful apart from an overabundance of collectibles, nothing feels like unnecessary padding. This wealth of enticing options made me feel like a warrior at a feast with more delicious mead and meat than any one person could ever consume. Every time I left the clan’s settlement of Ravensthorpe, I had to choose between multiple tempting paths. Eivor’s effort to create a new home brings together a variety of compelling loops that capture the adventurous Viking spirit you can hunt legendary animals, track down new pieces of gear, or ride your longship down the riverways. It’s a massive story with small beginnings, following your Norse hero’s attempts to forge alliances in hostile territory. Though Valhalla embodies a fascinating evolution for Assassin’s Creed, you don’t need any familiarity with the franchise to appreciate the tale of Eivor and the Raven Clan’s incursion into Anglo-Saxon England. With its engaging combination of combat, open-world exploration, crafted story content, and settlement management, this Viking saga is an epic with a little something for everyone.
Each installment hits different sweet spots for different players with varying degrees of success, but for the first time in the series, the balance feels perfect in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Over the years, it has provided stealth-focused infiltration, stylish encounters, high-seas adventures, and other elements – but not always in equal measure. The Assassin’s Creed franchise draws people in for many reasons.