Battle Hymns and Berserkers: The Best Viking-themed PC Games

Embodying the ethos of ancient Norse culture, many PC games have dive-bombed into the world of Viking lore and mythology with gusto, delivering pulse-pounding adventures or intense strategic experiences. With Viking games gathering steam (and blood), we have rounded up the ten best Viking PC games that truly bring the wind-lashed grimness and glory of the Viking age to life on your screen.

1. Assassin's Creed Valhalla

In the realm of stunning open-world adventures, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla soars to the top with its richly detailed portrayal of Viking life, culture, and warfare. You play as Eivor, a Viking raider eager to navigate the treacherous political landscape of ninth-century England. Profound narratives, intricate game mechanics, and breathtaking visuals give this formidable franchise entry a unique sense of authenticity and depth. The capacity to build and manage your settlement offers a thrilling, immersive Viking experience.

2. The Banner Saga Trilogy

An impeccably elegant blend of strategy and narrative, The Banner Saga Trilogy pulls you into a Viking-inspired world of survival and moral complexities. Your choices deeply influence the game's evocative story as you deal with a pantheon of Nordic deities, mythical beings, and harsh winter landscapes. The hand-drawn, animated art style lends a timeless appeal, further engaged by strategic combat and meaningful character development.

3. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

Unfurling an intense psychological journey into Norse mythology, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice is a profound exploration of mental illness within a Celtic protagonist venturing into Viking Hell to save the soul of her lover. Its immersive narrative, innovative sound design, captivating performances, and deeply symbolic gameplay make Hellblade a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging Viking-inspired adventure.

4. Vikings - Wolves of Midgard

Challenging the cold breath of Ragnarok, Vikings - Wolves of Midgard offers action-packed gameplay where you face off against fearsome beasts and forgotten deities. Environmental obstacles, like the deadly cold, add an extra layer of challenge in this thrilling Action RPG. Deep crafting mechanics, robust character development, and intense combat provide a satisfying Norse-themed romp.

5. Valheim

The recent sensation Valheim immerses you in a procedurally generated purgatory inspired by Viking culture and mythology. The ability to build structures, farm, hunt, and craft items offers a satisfying survival experience. Coupling this with challenging bosses to vanquish, and an enchanting realm to explore, Valheim ensures players have their Viking-era survival cut out for them.

6. Northgard

For those who favor strategy, Northgard offers a real-time strategy experience within an unforgiving, mystical new continent. Players lead a clan of Vikings, managing resources, surviving harsh winters, taming the wild landscapes, and encountering mythical creatures. The game’s art style is vibrant and charming, reflecting a welcoming epitome of indie development flair blended with Norse histories and myths.

7. Expeditions: Viking

Breaking away from the traditional mold, Expeditions: Viking is an RPG that focuses on strategy and decision-making in Viking-era Denmark. Gameplay parts are split between decision-heavy quests and turn-based combat, where your every choice has an impact on your clan's fortunes. With a rich narrative and a dynamic world that reacts to your choices, this game explores the intricacies of Viking culture and strategy.

8. Rune II: Decapitation Edition

With its epic narrative of gods, beasts, and the apocalypse, Rune II: Decapitation Edition is a decent Viking-themed action game. Set in a wonderfully detailed open world, you're tasked with taking down Loki in an apocalyptic landscape. Unique crafting, exploration, and decapitation mechanics add some notable intricacies to this Norse tale of survival and vengeance.

9. Viking: Battle for Asgard

One of the classics, Viking: Battle for Asgard, pulls you into a gripping war against the goddess Hel. As Skarin, a favored warrior of the gods, you'll witness epic-scale warfare, unleash deadly melee combos, and harness divine powers. Dated yet charming visuals accompanied by a sweeping score and memorable gameplay make this a Viking experience worth revisiting.

10. Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia

For ardent fans of grand strategy, Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia offers the ultimate Viking conquest experience during the Viking Age’s pivotal moment in British history. The game features a detailed campaign map, accurate historical contexts, and a focus on strategy, offering an intricate dance between combat, politics, and resource management. The Viking Sea Kings faction adds a distinctly Norse flavor to the Total War formula.

From visceral raids to strategic survival, these Viking-themed PC games compose a saga of passion and power, blending history and mythology with compelling narratives and innovative game mechanics. Hone your battle prowess or flex your strategic muscles; it's time to embrace the spirit of Norse legends and dive into these epic Viking adventures!