It’s hard to believe that it’s been over ten years since the original Volgarr the Viking released. Ten years! What’s even harder to believe, however, is how few people beat it. Volgarr isn’t just a tough cookie, it’s a tough bakery. Surviving is the name of the game as you hack your way through an armada of foes. Still, for those that can stomach the madness, it’s worth the journey. But with Crazy Viking Studios turning to Digital Eclipse with the sequel, there’s a lot more room. For death, that is. Volgarr the Viking II continues the blood-spilling trend of the first game. However, it introduces a number of new options to make it something for everyone. Yes, even those that can’t tell a sword from a pitchfork. (See, one has a sharp blade and the other has three prongs…)
It’s still not quite the experience for everyone. However, Volgarr the Viking II really opens up possibilities. And it does so with bloodthirsty, joyous mayhem. Nothing wrong with that, especially after a stressful day at work. Fear me!
With Volgarr the Viking II, You Best Prepare For Death(s)
If you know Crazy Viking Studios, then you know this Volgarr game is difficult. Like, brutally. You’ll die several times before you get the hang of things. And even then, you’ll perish some more. But if you come to understand that, you’ll appreciate the gameplay that ties in with this vicious nature.
That’s because it’s pure hack-and-slash fun. Think Rastan, but dialed up to 11. Enemies explode at your feet as you use your main weapon and a throwing spear. But you can also use said spear to get deeper into levels, along with ropes and ladders. Upgrades are also available, which can help your character survive more than one hit. Well, maybe. (Fall into a pit and you still meet a devastating fate, though.)
But the gameplay is outstanding. Even with your character being slow, they’re powerful. The jump slash is a wonderful technique. And once you get hold of the flaming sword, it’s magic. (Until you lose it like a doofus, mind you.)
Now, I mentioned that rookies will like this game. That’s because, after dying so many times, you’ll unlock Undead Mode. Here, you’ll be able to take a lot more hits with the help of a green skin. (Not a Hulk rip-off, I swear.) This makes the game much easier. Be warned, however – it also gives you the lamest ending. Die-hard champs will want to finish as powerfully as possible.
The only catch is that once Undead Mode activates, you can’t turn it off. You have to start a completely new game. So definitely practice first. Practice makes perfect, especially with the speedrun timer included in the game. What an awesome option.
So there you have it. An action game that rewards both die-hard players and newcomers into mastering Volgarr’s abilities. That’s something the original desperately needed. We’re just happy to see it here, along with the various options. They push Volgarr the Viking II to the glorious ring of Valhalla.
A Visceral Presentation
After a decade of work on the first game, Crazy Viking Studios has gone all out with the sequel. And it shows.
The environments are much bigger here, and spaced out with some necessary checkpoints. That makes it a slight bit easier to get through stages, though you’ll need your skill set. What’s more, the use of colors is fantastic; and you can change around screen filters. This enables you to enhance the performance however you see fit. It’s really something. Of course, the bloody animations are excellent as well. Especially the “big ‘uns,” as we call them.
As for the music, it’s totally epic. We’re talking a soundtrack that Conan the Barbarian would listen to on headphones. (If he had headphones back in “the day,” mind you.) It’s majestic and absolutely worth a listen. Plus the sound effects will definitely quench your thirst for vengeance.
Does anything hold the game back? Well, aside from a rather large UI (it’s great to track health…but that much?), nah. It looks and sounds superb, no matter which platform you play it on.
Behold the Legend of Volgarr
If you want Volgarr the Viking II to be difficult, you got it. And the rewards that come with it. But if you wanted more of a cakewalk, you get that too, though with a slight green sheen. Whichever way you play, however, it’s a terrific, gore-filled sequel.
The presentation is nothing short of awesome, and the gameplay really delivers. Not to mention the checkpoint system, which is more than fair. And the multiple endings and various power-ups will keep you coming back.
Let’s just hope that the Volgarr legacy doesn’t wait another ten years to continue its journey. This is a huge step up, and we need further adventures. Hey, it worked for Conan.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Many thanks to Digital Eclipse for the review code. You can get it on Xbox, PlayStation, Steam and Nintendo Switch!
