Zombie Vikings! An Unexpectedly Delightful Platformer Journey Through Norse Mythology

Prepare to embark on an epic quest filled with chainsaw-wielding undead and quirky humor as we dive into the gloriously gory world of Zombie Vikings! This indie gem, developed by the creative minds at Zoink Games and released in 2015, takes the classic platformer genre for a wild ride through Norse mythology.
Storytelling Through Laughter: A Quest to Retrieve Odin’s Eyepatch
The narrative centers around a ragtag group of Viking zombies - Gunnar, his shield-maiden Báðýr, the colossal warrior Sváfnir, and the sneaky rogue Vladislav - who are tasked with a hilariously important mission: retrieving Odin’s stolen eyepatch.
This mythical artifact has been pilfered by the nefarious Loki (who wouldn’t want to steal from the Allfather?) and the quartet must journey across sprawling levels inspired by Norse mythology, battling mythological creatures and overcoming environmental obstacles along the way. The game’s story unfolds through cutscenes presented in a charming, hand-drawn art style that perfectly captures the comedic tone.
Gameplay Mechanics: Hack and Slashing Your Way Through Ragnarok
Zombie Vikings offers a side-scrolling platforming experience that blends classic action with satisfying combat. Players can choose to control any of the four Viking zombies, each possessing unique abilities that add depth to the gameplay.
Gunnar, the musclebound warrior, excels at close-range combat with his trusty chainsaw and shield bash attacks. Báðýr utilizes her speed and agility to outmaneuver enemies, wielding a ferocious axe and agile shield parry. Sváfnir, the towering giant, relies on brute strength, unleashing devastating ground slams and charged punches that clear entire hordes of foes.
Vladislav, the cunning rogue, prefers stealth and deception, utilizing his grappling hook for traversal and sneaky ranged attacks with throwing knives.
The game encourages players to experiment with different characters and discover their preferred playstyle. Mastering each zombie’s abilities is crucial for overcoming challenging encounters and traversing complex level designs.
Level Design: Exploring a World Rich in Norse Lore
Zombie Vikings boasts an impressive variety of levels inspired by iconic Norse mythological locales. From the snow-capped peaks of Jotunheim to the fiery depths of Muspelheim, players will encounter diverse environments teeming with dangers and hidden secrets.
The level design emphasizes exploration and platforming prowess, incorporating intricate puzzles, treacherous traps, and challenging enemy encounters. Players must utilize their chosen zombie’s abilities strategically to overcome obstacles and progress through each stage.
Visual Presentation: Hand-Drawn Charm Meets Gore
Zombie Vikings boasts a unique visual style that blends hand-drawn illustrations with vibrant colors and gruesome details. The character designs are expressive and charming, reflecting the game’s playful tone while remaining true to its Viking roots.
Enemies are rendered in a similarly stylized fashion, ranging from grotesque trolls and fearsome draugr to monstrous serpents and hulking jotnar.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Genre | Platformer |
Developer | Zoink Games |
Release Date | 2015 |
Platform | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch |
Sound Design: A Feast for the Ears
The game’s soundtrack is an eclectic mix of Norse-inspired melodies and upbeat rock tracks that perfectly complement the action. Sound effects are equally well-executed, adding a layer of visceral satisfaction to every chainsaw swing and bone-crushing blow.
Multiplayer Mayhem: Sharing the Zombie Fun
Zombie Vikings supports local co-op for up to four players, allowing friends and family to join in on the undead adventure. The cooperative mode adds another layer of depth and replayability, encouraging teamwork and strategic coordination.
A Hidden Gem Worth Unearthing!
Don’t let the quirky premise fool you - Zombie Vikings is a surprisingly polished and entertaining platformer that offers hours of zombie-slaying fun. With its unique blend of humor, action, and Norse mythology, it’s a game that truly stands out from the crowd.
Whether you’re a seasoned platforming veteran or simply looking for a lighthearted gaming experience with friends, Zombie Vikings is sure to satisfy your undead cravings!