Amongst scattering foxes and swaying foxgloves, on bracken-covered hills squared off by broken drystone walls, the Ancient Britain of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is a beautiful sight. Its palette is muted compared to the sunnier climes of Odyssey – here, a ruddy, muddy mix of reds and browns, often dimly lit under England’s smurring clouds. For six hours I get to explore this world – specifically, Ledecestrescire – Valhalla’s second British region after opening in East Anglia.
Main character Eivor is still new to the country, her settlement only just founded, and nowhere near as developed as Eurogamer’s in-depth tour of its evolution revealed earlier this week. The Vikings are still early on in their British conquests – and likewise, this Ledecestrescire chapter feels very much like Valhalla’s early game. Eivor has few showy special powers, and must engage in a relatively linear arc to establish her people’s foothold by deposing a local ruler and installing a puppet replacement friendlier to their cause.
We begin in Ravensthorpe, Eivor’s new home, as most of Valhalla’s other main missions will begin also. One small detail here I couldn’t share earlier this week – Ravensthorpe will be your portal not only to other English locations, but those much further afield. By communing with your seer you can explore multiple “mythworlds” involving the Norse gods, such as Asgard and Jotunheim. Ravensthorpe will also be your staging ground for a journey to North America – though the suggestion was this will be another small realm for you to visit.
