Are Axes Good in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, axes are exceptionally good in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. They are a powerful and versatile weapon class, offering a satisfying blend of damage, stun, and crowd control capabilities. While they might not always be the absolute fastest option, their raw strength and impactful hits make them a consistently reliable choice for Eivor’s adventures across England and beyond. The game features several types of axes, each with its own strengths, but all generally deliver a formidable performance. Whether you’re a newcomer to the series or a seasoned Viking raider, axes are a fantastic choice to master in your quest to conquer and explore.

Axe Types and Their Strengths

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla offers a variety of axes, each catering to different playstyles. Understanding the nuances of each type can help you optimize your combat prowess:

Bearded Axes

These are the most common type of axe and provide a good balance of damage and speed. They are typically one-handed weapons, allowing you to pair them with a shield for added defense or dual-wield them for an aggressive approach. Bearded axes excel in staggering enemies and dealing consistent damage. Their versatility makes them a popular choice for many players. The Jotnar Cleaver is often cited as one of the best examples of a top-tier bearded axe, known for its high damage output.

Dane Axes

Dane axes are the heavy hitters of the axe family. They are two-handed weapons, delivering devastating blows that can easily decimate groups of enemies. However, their larger size means that they are slower to swing compared to the lighter options. Dane axes are fantastic for players who favor a more deliberate, powerful combat style and don’t mind trading speed for devastating strikes. Their reach and ability to cleave through multiple targets make them incredibly effective in larger battles.

Great Axes

Similar to Dane axes, great axes are powerful two-handed options that excel in dealing heavy damage, particularly counter damage. While they may be slower than other weapons, their attack power can be significantly higher, making them excellent choices for players who focus on timing their attacks well. One notable example is the Rusted Anchor, which is prized for its exceptional counter damage potential.

Axes vs. Other Weapon Types

While axes are certainly strong, they exist alongside other powerful weapons in Valhalla. Here’s a brief look at how they compare:

Axes vs. Swords

Both axes and swords have similar stun and critical chance attributes. Axes generally have an edge in terms of raw damage, while swords are typically a bit faster. However, swords gain an advantage through unique perks. For example, the Joyeuse sword’s poison damage perk often makes swords superior overall in terms of additional effects, even compared to high-end axes. In general, if you want higher base damage axes are for you, but for more dynamic battles, swords can have the upper hand.

Axes vs. Hammers

Hammers are typically single-handed weapons with slightly lower damage output than bearded axes. However, they compensate with increased speed, making them a great primary weapon or a complement to a heavier axe. Many players find success dual-wielding a hammer and a bearded axe to get the best of both worlds. Hammers are great for quicker attacks and stuns.

Axes vs. Daggers

Daggers are the weapons of choice for a faster playstyle. They are nimble and quick but lack the raw power and stagger potential of axes. If you prioritize speed and stealth over brute force, daggers might be a better fit. However, for direct engagements, axes tend to outshine daggers in terms of impact and damage.

Dual-Wielding Axes

Dual-wielding axes is a viable option for those who enjoy a more aggressive combat style. While it doesn’t necessarily increase damage or attack speed on its own, wielding two lighter axes will result in lowered stamina use and more dodging during combat. Popular pairings include two bearded axes, or even two Dane axes for maximum damage output at the cost of speed. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to discovering your preferred dual-wielding configuration.

How to Maximize Axe Potential

To fully utilize the potential of axes in Valhalla, consider the following tips:

• Upgrade your Axes: As you progress through the game, upgrading your axes at the blacksmith is crucial. This enhances their damage output, critical hit chance, and other stats.
• Experiment with Perks: Certain weapons come with unique perks that can complement your playstyle. Pay attention to these and choose the axes that synergize best with your abilities.
• Combine with Skills: Certain skills in the skill tree will enhance the use of axes and other melee weapons. Consider investing in skills that increase damage, stun capabilities, and speed with melee.
• Master Combat Timing: Axes may be slower, so timing your attacks effectively is crucial. Practice parrying and dodging to avoid taking unnecessary damage while maximizing your offensive opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best overall axe in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?

While subjective, the Jotnar Cleaver is often considered the best bearded axe due to its high damage output and effective combat utility. For a great axe with raw damage potential, the Rusted Anchor will deal the most counter damage.

2. Can you dual-wield any axe combination?

Yes, you can dual-wield any combination of axes, including two bearded axes, two dane axes, or even a bearded axe with a smaller axe or hammer. The game provides different bonuses for light or heavy weapons.

3. Are Dane axes slower than bearded axes?

Yes, Dane axes are generally slower due to their two-handed nature, which trades speed for increased damage and reach.

4. Do axes have good stun potential?

Yes, axes have excellent stun potential, which allows you to stagger and control enemies in combat.

5. Are axes effective against all enemy types?

Generally, axes are effective against all enemy types, but their effectiveness varies slightly depending on enemy armor and fighting style.

6. How do I find the best axes in the game?

The best axes are usually found by exploring the map, completing quests, defeating specific enemies, and looting high-level chests.

7. Should I upgrade my starting axe, Varin’s Axe?

Yes, Varin’s Axe is a powerful starting weapon that can hold its own even in the late game if upgraded to Mythical status.

8. Is the axe a good self-defense weapon?

Yes, an axe can be a good self-defense weapon if you happen to have one, but they are not effective against attackers with ranged weapons.

9. How do axes compare to other two-handed weapons like greatswords?

Axes excel in raw power and stun, while greatswords can offer a balance of reach and damage. Your choice will depend on your desired combat style.

10. Can you find legendary axes?

Yes, legendary axes with unique perks and stats can be found throughout the game through exploration, quests, and defeating specific enemies.

11. Is dual-wielding a powerful axe with a hammer a good strategy?

Yes, many players find this combination to be effective. The hammer provides speed and the axe offers damage and reach.

12. Do axes work well with specific skill tree perks?

Yes, several skill tree perks enhance the effectiveness of axes, including perks that increase melee damage and stun chance.

13. Can you customize the appearance of axes?

Yes, you can customize the appearance of your axes through the transmog system found within the blacksmiths.

14. Does weapon weight affect Eivor’s stamina?

Yes, weapon weight affects stamina usage when dodging. Lighter weapons allow you to dodge more freely and reduce stamina expenditure.

15. What are the best early game axes to acquire?

Early game axes can be found in chests and from defeated enemies. Focus on upgrading the base axe you get with your starting armor, Varin’s Axe and you will be able to go anywhere you need to in the early part of the game.

In conclusion, axes are a fantastic weapon choice in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Their blend of damage, stun potential, and versatility makes them a reliable option for players seeking a powerful and satisfying combat experience. Whether you choose to wield a single bearded axe, dual-wield a pair of axes, or prefer the heavy blows of a Dane axe, these weapons will serve you well on your Viking saga.