Changing Your Look in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: A Comprehensive Guide

In Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, the ability to customize your Viking warrior, Eivor, is a core element of the gameplay experience. You can alter various aspects of Eivor’s appearance throughout your journey. You can change Eivor’s hair, beard, and tattoos immediately after reaching your settlement, Ravensthorpe, early in the game. To alter Eivor’s gender is just as easy, available through the Animus menu at any time.

Appearance Customization Options

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla provides several avenues for altering your character’s appearance:

Tattoo Artist

You can modify Eivor’s tattoos, hairstyles, and beard styles by visiting a tattoo artist in Ravensthorpe. This service becomes available after the settlement is established early in the game. The tattoo artist offers a range of cosmetic options, allowing you to personalize Eivor’s look.

Animus Menu

Eivor’s gender can be switched through the Animus menu, which can be accessed anytime from the pause menu. The Animus menu also allows the player to let the Animus choose the most representative gender for each memory strand, resulting in seamless transitions between the male and female versions of Eivor throughout the game.

Jomsviking Customization

You can customize your Jomsviking, a recruitable character, at the barracks in Ravensthorpe. This customization extends to gender, face, body type, tattoos, and hair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to common questions regarding appearance customization in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla:

1. When does the tattoo shop become available?

The tattoo shop becomes available in Ravensthorpe once you have progressed the story far enough to establish the settlement. This occurs relatively early in the game. You’ll know it’s ready when the tattoo artist, Svend, sets up shop. After Svend’s death, Tove will take over the tattoo parlor.

2. How do I change Eivor’s gender?

To change Eivor’s gender presentation, pause the game, select the Animus option, and then choose “Change Eivor’s Appearance.” You can then select either male Eivor, female Eivor, or let the Animus choose.

3. Why can’t I find the tattoo artist?

If you can’t find the tattoo artist, make sure you have progressed the story far enough to establish Ravensthorpe. Also, look for the tattoo shop marked by a figure-eight sign outside its doors. After Svend’s death, make sure you check on Tove, and after she sets up shop.

4. Can I customize my Jomsviking’s appearance?

Yes, you can customize your Jomsviking’s appearance. Go to the barracks in Ravensthorpe, where you can change their gender, face, body type, hair, and tattoos.

5. Is Eivor’s appearance customizable beyond tattoos and hair?

Yes, aside from the above, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla offers many ways to customize Eivor’s appearance. You can find and equip different armor sets, cloaks, and headgear that drastically change Eivor’s look. Additionally, you can collect tattoos and hairstyles by exploring the game world.

6. Can I change my mount or raven’s appearance?

Yes, you can change the appearance of your mount (horse or wolf) and your raven, Synin. Visit the stable in Ravensthorpe to switch mounts or the aviary to change Synin’s skin.

7. Can I change my appearance mid-game?

Yes, you can change Eivor’s gender presentation at any point in the game through the Animus menu. You can also change Eivor’s tattoos, hairstyles, and beard styles by visiting the tattoo artist in Ravensthorpe as often as you like.

8. How do I unlock new tattoos?

New tattoo designs can be found throughout the world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, usually hidden in chests in guarded locations or as rewards for completing world events. Explore thoroughly to find them.

9. Is there a cost associated with changing Eivor’s appearance?

Changing Eivor’s appearance at the tattoo artist requires silver, the in-game currency. The cost varies depending on the complexity of the tattoo or hairstyle. Changing Eivor’s gender through the Animus menu is free.

10. What is the “Let the Animus Choose” option?

The “Let the Animus Choose” option allows the game to dynamically switch between male and female Eivor based on which gender is most representative of the historical memory being experienced. This option is part of the game’s narrative, as Eivor’s gender in historical records is somewhat ambiguous.

11. Why does Eivor look so old?

While Eivor is around 25 years old at the start of the main game, the harsh conditions and battles of the Viking age can take a toll on their appearance. Additionally, certain beard and hair styles can make Eivor appear older.

12. Is it better to choose male or female Eivor?

Choosing male or female Eivor does not significantly impact the story. Both are equally valid and have unique voice acting performances. The “Let the Animus Choose” option provides a balanced experience. The canonical representation is the female Eivor.

13. Can I change the appearance of other characters besides Eivor?

Aside from your Jomsviking, you cannot directly change the appearance of other major characters in the game. However, they may have their own story-driven appearance changes.

14. Are there any appearance-related skills or abilities?

While there aren’t specific skills directly tied to appearance, certain armor sets and runes can provide gameplay benefits that complement your chosen look. For example, equipping a full set of armor can unlock set bonuses that enhance your combat abilities.

15. Where is Tove after Svend dies?

After Svend passes away, Tove can be found on the western outskirts of Ravensthorpe. Speaking to her will eventually lead to her taking over as the new tattoo artist.

Conclusion

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla offers a rich and diverse range of options for customizing Eivor’s appearance. Whether you want to change their gender, tattoos, hairstyles, or gear, the game provides the tools to create a Viking warrior that reflects your personal style. Remember to explore the world thoroughly to unlock new cosmetic options and take advantage of the tattoo artist and Animus menu to personalize your Eivor. For more insights into the educational aspects of gaming, visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website.