Writing about AC Valhalla is a pleasure really. Why? Well because I’ve already touched on the previous entries from the Assassin’s Creed series. Most notably Assassin’s Creed Odyssey which I explored in my Filmaholic Gamer Review. Check it out here again. You’re welcome.
But if you’re interested in more games from the Assassin’s Creed series… Don’t despair. We do have plenty of games from the franchise. From Assassin’s Creed Chronicles series, which are available here. To the Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood (available here). And of course. The amazing Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Which we cannot recommend enough. Get it here.
But let’s take a closer look at Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. The 2020 game was nominated for Innovation in Accessibility and Best Action/Adventure at The Game Awards 2020. And of course for Outstanding Video Game at the 2021 GLAAD Media Award. What’s so special about it? And yes.
What’s AC Valhalla All About?
Well, it’s the twelfth major installment in the Assassin’s Creed series. And the successor to 2018’s Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. A great RPG game, developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft, AC Valhalla is also a great action/adventure primarily set in the years 872–878 AD. And in it, players control Eivor Varinsdottir.
A Viking raider who becomes embroiled in the centuries-old conflict between the Assassin Brotherhood, who fight for peace and liberty, and the Templar Order. Who desire peace through control. But the game for the most part recounts a fictional story during the Viking expansions into the British Isles. However, the modern-day portion of the story is set in the 21st century. And follows Layla Hassan. An Assassin who relives Eivor’s memories to find a way to save the Earth from destruction.
So, become Eivor. A legendary Viking raider on a quest for glory. Explore England’s Dark Ages as you raid your enemies, grow your settlement, and build your political power. Furthermore, lead epic Viking raids against Saxon troops and fortresses. Also, Challenge yourself with the most varied collection of deadly enemies ever found in Assassin’s Creed. And of course… Explore a Dark Age open world, from the shores of Norway to the kingdoms of England
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is available for purchase here at IndieGala. Just click here and get it for yourself or your dearest. The holidays are just around the corner, so make your gamer friends and family happy.
But What’s Metacritic Word On AC Valhalla?
*GamingTrend writes: Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the best open-world RPG this year. Its colorful locals are a joy to discover, combat and stealth feel deep and rewarding. And there’s a Viking hoard of things to do.
*White Widow adds: What an absolute masterpiece of a game. Hell yeah! It’s worth the wait and DLC is good too.
*While Never_Forgiven writes: Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is absolutely amazing, especially after patch 1.0.4 and the next patch is coming in a few days. Highly recommend this game. It is one of the best of 2020.
From Assassin’s Creed Valhalla To The Last Kingdom
Why The Last Kingdom you might ask? Well, because the acclaimed TV, much like the game, also covers the Viking expansion across Europe. Especially The movement of the Great Heathen Army in England in 865 AD during the Viking expansion. However, in the first season of The Last Kingdom, the year is 866. And the Great Heathen Army’s arrival in Britain is about to redefine the relationship between Vikings and Anglo-Saxons. Following the establishment of Danish rule in Jórvík and East Anglia, the show largely focuses on the resistance of the Kingdom of Wessex. Al the way to the ongoing Viking incursions to Southern England.
But in the middle of the story is our main protagonist. Uhtred (played by Alexander Dreymon). After the deaths of his father and brother, and a Saxon girl named Brida are taken as slaves by Earl Ragnar to his home in Danish Northumbria. Years later, a now-grown Uhtred is accepted as neither Saxon nor Dane. But he will find himself faced with the task of claiming his birthright under the weight of his heavily divided loyalties. Meanwhile, the ambitious King Alfred (David Dawson) of Wessex (which is THE LAST KINGDOM standing) makes plans to unite England and spread Christianity. It’s not an easy task, but what is really?
What Makes The Last Kingdom So Good?
For many (me included) it’s the realistic, gritty portrayal of that particularly fascinating part of history. Viking did it similarly well, but there’s a fine distinction in the Last Kingdom. Over here there’s a strong emphasis on duality. Regardless if it’s the duality in Uhtred’s identity. Or the duality of dualities of the opposing communities that occupy the land. The Vikings are more brawling, chaotic and passionate people. While on the opposite side we have the religious, prim and proper Anglo-Saxons who strictly obey the religious rules. A very different sense of cultural identity on both sides. And aside from that clear and very noticeable distinction, you can plenty of memorable characters as well. Much like with Vikings, there are some truly memorable characters here too.
Great Characters And Even Better Actors
Alexander Dreymon is fantastic as Uhtred although admittedly not as charismatic as Travis Fimmel’s Ragnar Lothbrok. However, Dreymon’s portrayal boasts the lore among the rich history and historic realism. David Dawson is equally outstanding as King Alfred, and I can’t help but mention Emily Cox’s portrayal of Brida. She’s fierce, she’s loyal and from time to time, a great deal of the show’s humor stems from her. But she’s a fantastic rock to Uhtred and I adored her dynamic with him. Tobias Santelmann is great as Ragnar The Younger, but don’t forget about Harry McEntire portrayal of Aethelwold.
Fantastic Production Values!
Oh yes, they are. I can’t seem to find fault with the production of The Last Kingdom really.
It’s well written, well-directed show with fabulous set design, cosmography, cinematography and camera work. And special effects really polish the grittier thing about the series. The amazing fight scenes. Yes, there’s plenty of blood but there’s a great deal of realism there too. I’m not a historian so I can’t judge how much of the historical accuracy is being nurtured here. But I suppose even with the creative liberties, it’s pretty spot on. I’ll make a quick note on the script here.
It’s interesting to see how there’s a great understanding of the opposite sides of religion here in The Last Kingdom. One is mono-theistic while the other side is poly-theistic. And how the different religious practices aim for a better understating of the characters. Despite their difference, we get to care about them. We root for them. We hate and love them. It’s for me a sign of great writing. Not that the direction is not up to par, but the writing excels here. Yes. This is a fantastic series, and you’re gonna love it if you’re a fan of AC Valhalla. But we can’t wait to hear your opinion about the TV series. What’s your take on it?
And Are You A Fan Of AC Valhalla? How About The Last Kingdom?
Let us know what’s your favorite thing about the AC Valhalla game. And which character is your favorite from The Last Kingdom? Let us know in the comment section. Let us know. We’d love to know all about them.
