Who is Loki’s Son in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
The answer to the question of who is Loki’s son in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is multifaceted, largely due to the game’s unique interpretation of Norse mythology. While in traditional Norse lore, Loki’s offspring are numerous, including Fenrir, Jormungandr, and Hel, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla cleverly integrates these figures into its narrative through its ancient Isu civilization lore and reincarnation mechanics.
In the game, Basim Ibn Ishaq is revealed to be the reincarnation of Loki. Therefore, through the lens of Assassin’s Creed mythology, Fenrir, Jormungandr and Hel do not exist as Loki’s literal children in Valhalla. Rather, Fenrir is represented by a large wolf that is a manifestation of Loki’s (Basim’s) memories and anger, which Eivor confronts in a memorable boss fight. Jormungandr and Hel also appear in the game as physical manifestations of Loki’s past. They are more the result of the Isu being able to create simulations that mirror the myths we know rather than literal offspring.
The Complexities of Reincarnation and Isu Lore
To fully understand Loki’s “son” in Valhalla, we must delve into the game’s established lore. The Isu, a precursor race to humanity, are the inspiration for the gods of Norse mythology. These beings possessed advanced technology and were able to transfer their consciousness into human bodies, a process called reincarnation. This is the key to understanding Basim’s dual identity.
Basim: The Vessel for Loki’s Memories
Initially introduced as a skilled assassin and a member of Sigurd’s clan, Basim’s true nature is slowly revealed throughout the game. Basim is not just a man; he is the reincarnation of Loki. His memories, once dormant, gradually resurface, influencing his personality and driving his actions. The memories and personality of the original Loki is locked away within Basim’s mind and is represented by the character Nehal, a subconscious representation of Loki’s past and trauma.
Fenrir: Not a Literal Son
Fenrir, the monstrous wolf of Norse myth, appears as a formidable foe in Valhalla. However, he isn’t Loki’s son in the traditional sense. Rather, Fenrir is a manifestation of Loki’s rage and grief – specifically, the pain he experienced over the capture of the original Fenrir in the Isu timeline. The fight with Fenrir is a symbolic battle that highlights the conflict within Basim, showcasing the lingering influence of Loki’s memories.
Why This Interpretation?
This unconventional interpretation allows Valhalla to blend historical fiction with mythological elements. By casting Loki as an Isu whose consciousness was transferred into a human vessel (Basim), and making his children a part of his memory, the game provides a unique twist on familiar stories. It creates complex characters and enriches the Assassin’s Creed universe with its distinct take on the myths.
Loki’s Motivations and Revenge
The key to Basim’s antagonism toward Eivor stems from the original Loki’s hatred of his fellow Isu. This bitterness is a direct result of what he perceived as the mistreatment and betrayal of his children. His primary motivation throughout the game is to get revenge on those Isu responsible, specifically Odin and the others that were part of the group that captured his son Fenrir, whom he has a deep connection to even if not his son in the traditional sense.
Ultimately, Basim’s actions in Valhalla are driven by Loki’s desire for revenge against those who wronged him and his family. This desire is manifested in his pursuit of Eivor, who is revealed to be the reincarnation of Odin, a major figure in Loki’s resentment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Loki’s wife in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
In Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Loki’s wife is Sigyn. However, in the context of the game’s narrative, Sigyn is not a major character as she is in Norse mythology. Loki’s affair with Aletheia/Angrboða is more significant, as it is the source of the memories that manifest as his children.
2. Who is Angrboða in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
Angrboða is another name for the Isu Aletheia. She is Loki’s lover and is the source of the memories of his children: Fenrir, Jormungandr, and Hel.
3. Is Basim’s son in the game?
Basim does mention having a son in a campfire scene with Eivor. This memory is a key component of Loki’s past and fuels his desire for revenge. However, Basim’s son is not in the game as a specific character and only exists in Basim/Loki’s memories.
4. Who impregnated Loki in Norse mythology?
In traditional Norse mythology, Loki was impregnated by the stallion Svaðilfari while in the form of a mare. This resulted in the birth of Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse. This event does not feature directly in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.
5. Why does Basim hate Eivor?
Basim hates Eivor because she is the reincarnation of Odin, who he holds responsible for the imprisonment of his son Fenrir and his overall mistreatment by his fellow Isu. He is seeking revenge for the wrongdoings of the Isu.
6. Is Basim a villain in Valhalla?
Yes, Basim is a primary antagonist in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. While initially presented as an ally, his true motivations and the emergence of Loki’s memories lead him down a villainous path.
7. How did Basim become Loki’s reincarnation?
In the Assassin’s Creed lore, the Isu had the technology to transfer their consciousness into human bodies. This is how Basim became the reincarnation of Loki. His memories of the original Loki began to surface over time.
8. Is Basim Altaïr’s ancestor?
While Basim and Altaïr share similar appearances, it’s implied that Basim could be an ancestor of Altaïr rather than a direct father. The game does not officially confirm that connection.
9. What is the significance of the wolf boss fight in Valhalla?
The wolf boss fight is symbolic, representing the conflict within Basim as Loki’s memories surface and cause him to become more resentful of Eivor and the other reincarnated Isu. Fenrir is not Loki’s literal son in the game but rather a manifestation of his rage.
10. Why does Basim betray Sigurd?
Basim betrays Sigurd due to his underlying desire to get revenge on Eivor, as she is the reincarnation of Odin. Sigurd is Eivor’s brother and as such his plan involves harming her.
11. Is Loki still alive in Valhalla?
In the game, the original Loki is not alive. However, his memories and consciousness live on through his reincarnation, Basim. The original Loki was imprisoned and it is said he breaks free in Ragnarok.
12. Who is Thor in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
In Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Halfdan Ragnarsson is the reincarnation of Thor. He is one of the sons of Ragnar Lodbrok and the Conqueror of the North.
13. What is the connection between the Isu and the Norse gods?
In Assassin’s Creed lore, the Isu are the inspiration for the Norse gods. They were an advanced civilization whose technology and existence led to the myths and legends we know today.
14. Why is Assassin’s Creed Mirage considered a prequel?
Assassin’s Creed Mirage is considered a prequel because its narrative takes place before the events of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, following a younger Basim before he is significantly affected by Loki’s memories.
15. Who is Nehal in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
Nehal is a construct that appears in Valhalla, it is a representation of Loki’s memories locked away within Basim. She guides Basim/Loki through his past, particularly his relationship with his children and with Eivor as Odin.