Step into the brutal, blood-soaked era of early medieval warfare in War of the Vikings. Developed by Fatshark and published by Paradox Interactive, this action-packed multiplayer title offers a visceral twist on the competitive online shooter formula. Instead of firearms, players wield heavy battleaxes, swords, and shields in a relentless struggle for control over the lands of Britannia.

Brutal Close-Quarters Combat

War of the Century is an objective-based action title that focuses heavily on intense, close-quarters melee combat. Unlike traditional shooters where engagements happen at a distance, this game places you in the heart of the fray. The gameplay mechanics are built around a high-stakes "if it hits you, it kills you" philosophy, demanding precision and mastery over several core elements:

  • Skill-Based Melee: Success relies on mastering the timing of blocks, parries, and strikes. Simply spamming attacks will leave you vulnerable to devastating counterattacks.
  • Dynamic Ranged Options: While the focus is on melee, players can utilize bows and throwing axes to turn the tide of battle, providing essential support against charging enemies.
  • Special Abilities: Players have access to special abilities capable of delivering lethal blows, though using them often leaves you momentarily exposed to opposing forces.
  • Team-Based Strategy: Victory requires more than individual skill; players must coordinate with teammates, such as utilizing shield walls to create openings for heavy hitters.

A War for Britannia

Set in a gritty historical landscape, players choose between two warring factions: the Vikings and the Saxons. The game delivers "skull-crushing" action through cinematic moments of carnage, where decapitations and crushing blows are part of the experience. As a follow-up to Fatshark's War of the Roses, this title aims for a more streamlined, fast-paced combat loop, focusing on short, intense matches driven by objective-based gameplay.

Features and Gameplay Loop

As players engage in battle, they can earn experience and currency to unlock new loadouts and customizations. This progression system allows you to tailor your warrior for the front lines. However, the game is designed as a purely multiplayer experience, meaning you will be constantly thrust into large-scale battles where the chaos of clashing steel and screaming warriors defines every match.

Who Is This Game For?

War of the Vikings appeals to fans of competitive multiplayer games who are looking for a departure from the standard FPS genre. It is ideal for players who enjoy high-skill ceiling combat and historical settings. However, it is best suited for patient gamers; due to the heavy reliance on precise timing, players should be prepared to navigate technical hurdles such as server latency and netcode issues that can impact hit detection during large-scale skirmishes.

Platform Availability: PC