Viking XCOM Variant Breaks Cover

Arctic Hazard announces Norse, a new strategy game reminiscent of XCOM, but set in Viking-era Norway. The game promises a historically accurate and engaging narrative, penned by award-winning author Giles Kristian, known for his bestselling Viking novels.

The gaming market is saturated with medieval fantasy titles. Fans of Central European medieval settings with survival elements might enjoy games like Manor Lords and Medieval Dynasty. Others offer Roman Empire management and large-scale battles, such as Imperator: Rome. However, Vikings remain a consistently popular medieval warrior theme.

Norse is a turn-based strategy game similar to XCOM, but with a unique Viking twist. Players follow Gunnar, a young warrior driven by revenge against Steinarr Far-Spear, the murderer of his father and fellow countrymen. Gunnar must build his settlement, forge alliances, and assemble a powerful Viking army. Unlike the more open-ended Valheim, Norse emphasizes a compelling, story-driven experience.

Norse: A New Viking Strategy Game in the Style of XCOM

To ensure historical accuracy and a captivating story, Arctic Hazard collaborated with Giles Kristian, a Sunday Times bestselling author, to craft the game's narrative. Kristian's prolific Viking-themed novels have sold over a million copies. The game's trailer showcases a commitment to authentically representing Norway, aiming to create a memorable Viking experience.

Further gameplay details are available on Arctic Hazard's website. Players manage a village, overseeing resource production and upgrading Viking warrior equipment. Units are customizable and feature diverse classes, including Berserkers (frenzied melee fighters) and Bogmathr (long-range archers).

Developed using Unreal Engine 5, Norse will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Players can add the game to their Steam wishlist; however, a release date is yet to be announced.