Valheim

If you were told that there was yet another indie survival sandbox game in early access in 2021, you'd be able to hear the eyes roll back into your head. Valheim appears to be yet another processed offering in the genre. It will get the Twitch population to stream it to get players throwing money at it - only to be never finished or not to player expectations.

While we find this practice all too common - there's something different about Valheim. There's a resonance about it that is difficult to put your finger on - but a nearly ethereal allure that beckons you to come and try this came out. Maybe it's the Viking element, or perhaps this game is not just a reskinned copy of other survival sandboxes.

To Valheim and Beyond!

That special aura about Valheim becomes apparent almost immediately after being dropped into the Nordic afterlife it's set in. This survival sandbox actually feels like a game. There are varied environments, craft and combat challenges, and intuitive features to get the most adventure out of your playtime. It does not follow the typical early access sandbox model of - "here's the game, if you're bored - you're too stupid to figure our art out!"

Valheim is being developed by 5 people - which would excuse the basic graphics. But still far surpasses most similar games in mechanics and environmental presentation - it puts larger teams to shame. The worlds are procedurally generated under a selected map type protruding different climates and flora and fauna. Within these levels - naturally, you and up to 9 others will build homes, craft weapons, and tell tales to revel in Viking splendor.

The whole concept resembles the core values of a survival sandbox game - but there is a sense of refreshment about Valheim. The number of memorable moments and the intricacies of the challenges immerse players into hours of entertainment. The combat and resulting jubilation of victory are significantly satisfying. They really encourage the player into making the survival grind worth their while.

It's a shared trait that there will be a grind with games like these - you'll have to collect many materials to make effective weapons and homes to boost chances of success. Those of the more impatient character might get frustrated - but there is certainly is enough to keep you occupied in the world without too much nuance.

Pride of the North

Valheim, even in early access, is one of the rare sandbox survival games that really focus on player experience. From the moment you are dropped into the Nordic afterlife, you feel there is a lot to accomplish. Under the Viking pretense - you spend your eternal days in Valhalla battling, drinking, eating, and reveling in good stories with friends.

Pros:

• A sandbox game that encourages goals and celebrates an accomplishment
• The simple craft and combat mechanics create an immersive experience
• The shipbuilding and sailing aspect is incredible

Cons:

• The long grinds for materials can be painful at times