Ancestors Legacy

Vikings. Let’s talk about them. Not just because we have Ancestors Legacy, and so many other games featuring vikings on sale. Although that’s a good theme for a great post. Or because we have Titan Quest: Ragnarök on sale as well. But also because the latest Assassin’s Creed Valhalla video game should be released soon, and what will it feature? You guessed it: vikings!

There are a lot of Viking themed stuff in this post, I know. Isn’t it awesome? Furthermore, let’s talk about the movies that also feature Vikings. Yes, there are plenty of them. Indeed some are better than others, but there’s no reason not to mention them. Right? Moreover, there’s the iconic TV show Vikings (check it out if you have the chance), but for now, we’re going to focus on motion pictures about Vikings. Solely on motion pictures. Hence, the title of this post. But I’ve written about humanoid rhinos, elves and hobbits, so this seems like the logical progression…right? Wait, you’re telling me vikings aren’t mythical entities? Just joking.

But, as I previously mentioned, Ancestors Legacy is not the only Viking game that we have at IndieGala. Far from it. We have a fantastic selection, and we’re damn proud of it. Are you ready? Expeditions: Vikings is another great choice, while the sale on Dead In Vinland – Norse Side Stories expires shortly. Vikings – Wolves of Midgard is an excellent choice for all the Vikings aficionados out there, but so is Bad North: Jotunn Edition. Not to mention that Civilization VI has a Vikings Scenario Pack that’s worth checking out. And last but not least, there’s the fun Viking Brothers video game(s), also available at IndieGala. Look forward for even more viking themed deals like Northgard for example.

Ancestors Legacy

However, what’s Ancestors Legacy video game all about?

With Ancestors Legacy you can take command of your army. As you storm through medieval Europe in an extensive series of campaigns. And with choosing one of the four available nations – Viking (the inspiration for this post), Anglo-Saxon, German, Slav. You will also be tasked with more than just conquering, raiding and pillaging enemy camps, villages and towns. Only by utilizing the full range of available tactical options, taking strategic advantage of the environment. And of course by managing your temporary bases and settlements, will you emerge victorious.

Ancestors Legacy

Ancestors Legacy is a historically accurate real-time strategy game influenced by historical events in the Middle Ages. The game combines resource management and base building with large-scale, squad-based battles across vast battlefields. All rendered in great detail thanks to the Unreal Engine 4 tech. Experience medieval bloodshed like never before. All thanks to the cinematic action camera that puts you right in the middle of the battle at the press of a button.

What’s so fascinating about the Vikings?

Indeed. What’s so fascinating about the Vikings? Well, in Hollywood terms, making a Viking themed movie is always a good excuse for making a period piece movie. Likewise, it’s an excuse for exploring an era (and an entire culture) that’s so ancient that you need an entire team to bring it to life. Therefore, it’s an excuse for actors to practice their sword-fighting abilities, and to show off their physiques. Almost certainly to mention how hard they prepared in their diet, exercise or even their Viking dialect.

But what about the real Vikings?

Firstly, Wikipedia defines Viking as Norse people that lived in present-day Denmark, Sweden and Norway. From the late 8th to late 11th centuries, Vikings raided and traded from their Northern European homelands across wide areas of Europe, and explored westwards to Iceland, Greenland, and Vinland.

Secondly, the Vikings were known as excellent sailors and nautical navigators. Not to mention that they were excellent warriors and hunters, although their savage nature is sometimes exaggerated in modern representation.

Enough about Ancestors Legacy realistic vikings. What about the modern movie Vikings?

In contrast to the actual truth about them, Hollywood likes to generalize and dramatize. A lot. But, that’s Hollywood. There are very few movies that deliver the goods in this respect, but we’re here purely for entertainment. What are the most interesting (dare we say eclectic) movies about the Vikings?

Valhalla Rising

First of all, let’s start on a positive note. It’s a movie that was made by a Danish director, starring a Danish actor. Ultimately, one of the best movies about the Vikings, although it was a box office bomb. In addition to being awesome, the director deliberately did not give formal names to the characters. So the main character and a boy travel with a band of Christian Crusaders to find the promised land. Simple. This is a beautifully crafted movie that should be on your watch list.

Ancestors Legacy

Beowulf

Also another commercial flop, but this time in 3D. Based on the Old English epic poem, Beowulf had such potential. Firstly a stellar cast, and secondly a massive budget. Although it was met with positive reviews at the time, Beowulf seems like a wasted opportunity to bring the Vikings to cinematic glory. Even some Viking scholars criticized the interpretation of the poem. Not to mention the overall Viking tone and accuracy that was lacking. But, it’s a decent viewing nonetheless.

Beowulf

Thor

Probably the most famous Viking ever…Viking God? Norse God?However you’d like to call him, it doesn’t get any more Hollywood than this. Admittedly, I was puzzled by the decision to have Kenneth Branagh directing. But I guess Marvel knew what they were doing. Since him directing Thor is like Lawrence Olivier directing Superman. But I digress. It was a success and launched the careers of Hemsworth/ Hiddleston. Thor has humor and action. It’s great.

Thor Loki

13th Warrior

Certainly, the most accurate movie about the Vikings for sure. But it had Antonio Banderas in the lead role and it gave a different spin on the Beowulf story. Furthermore, the movie was such a financial and critical flop at the time that even Omar Sharif was disappointed. Indeed, he even temporarily retired from making movies, after this film. 

warrior

How to Train Your Dragon                         

Finally, and animated movie about the Vikings (and their dragons, of course). Because why not? Widely praised at the time of the premiere, How to Train Your Dragon still holds 99% approval on Rotten Tomatoes. What’s the movie about? How to train your dragon. It’s a story about a Viking teenager’s desire to become a dragon slayer. Furthermore, it’s everything that you hoped for. It’s funny, warm and charming. It’s a fantastic movie for you and your kids.

how to train your dragon

Your Viking picks

What are your favorite Viking movies? Tell us in the comments below.

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