Do I Need To Play Any Games Before Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? The Viking Verdict

The short answer? No, you don’t need to play any previous Assassin’s Creed games before diving into Valhalla. Ubisoft has designed most of the Assassin’s Creed entries to be fairly standalone experiences. You can absolutely pick up Valhalla, enjoy its Viking setting, engage in the raiding and settlement building, and understand the main storyline without prior knowledge. However, as a seasoned explorer of this franchise, I can assure you that a little background enhances the experience significantly. The overarching narrative, the modern-day storyline with Layla Hassan, and certain character cameos will resonate far more deeply if you’ve spent time in the previous games. So, while not required, a little homework makes for a richer, more rewarding Viking saga. Let’s delve deeper!

Understanding the Assassin’s Creed Structure

The Assassin’s Creed franchise is structured in a way that allows both newcomers and veterans to jump in. Each main game tells a historical narrative that’s mostly self-contained. You’ll be introduced to new characters, explore a new time period, and unravel a localized conflict between the Assassins (Hidden Ones) and the Templars (Order of Ancients).

The Historical Narrative

This is the core of each Assassin’s Creed game. Whether you’re exploring ancient Egypt in Origins, ancient Greece in Odyssey, or Viking Age England in Valhalla, the historical narrative will stand alone without needing prior knowledge. The local conflicts, political intrigue, and key figures are introduced within the game itself.

The Modern-Day Storyline

This is where the connections between the games become more apparent. The modern-day storyline follows a team of Assassins who use the Animus to explore the memories of their ancestors. This narrative provides the overarching plot, connecting the historical events and revealing the grand scheme involving ancient artifacts and global conspiracies. While not essential for understanding the core gameplay, this modern-day storyline provides a cohesive thread that runs through the entire franchise. This is where previous game knowledge can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of Valhalla.

Games That Enhance the Valhalla Experience

While you don’t need to play anything before Valhalla, these games will provide valuable context:

• Assassin’s Creed Origins (2017): Introduces the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood, the Order of Ancients, and the modern-day character of Layla Hassan, who plays a crucial role in Valhalla. Understanding Layla’s backstory and motivations will make her presence in Valhalla more meaningful.
• Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (2018): Continues Layla’s story and expands on the lore surrounding the Isu, a precursor civilization whose artifacts and technology play a significant role in the overarching narrative. Additionally, a character from Odyssey appears briefly in Valhalla.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Playing Valhalla

Here are some of the most common questions about getting into Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, answered!

1. Can I play Assassin’s Creed Valhalla without playing the other games?

Absolutely! Valhalla is designed to be accessible to newcomers. You won’t be completely lost if you haven’t played any of the previous Assassin’s Creed titles. The main storyline, Viking setting, and gameplay mechanics are all explained within the game.

2. Is Valhalla a direct sequel to any previous Assassin’s Creed game?

No, it is not a direct sequel in the traditional sense. While it builds upon the established lore and modern-day storyline, it’s a standalone adventure set in a different time period with new characters and conflicts.

3. Do I need to know the overarching Assassin’s Creed lore to enjoy Valhalla?

Not necessarily, but knowing the lore will definitely enhance your appreciation of certain plot points and character interactions. The Isu artifacts, the conflict between Assassins and Templars, and the modern-day storyline will all have more meaning if you’re familiar with the broader Assassin’s Creed universe.

4. Is it okay to start with Valhalla even if I’m interested in playing the other games later?

Definitely! Valhalla can serve as a great entry point to the franchise. If you enjoy the gameplay, setting, and overall experience, you can always go back and explore the other Assassin’s Creed games later.

5. Are the modern-day sections in Valhalla confusing if I haven’t played Origins and Odyssey?

The modern-day sections will make more sense if you’ve played Origins and Odyssey, as they continue the storyline of Layla Hassan. However, the game provides enough context to follow along, even if you’re new to the series. You might just miss some of the nuances and character development.

6. Does playing Origins or Odyssey spoil the story of Valhalla?

No, playing Origins or Odyssey will not spoil the main story of Valhalla. While there are some thematic connections and recurring elements, the historical narratives are separate and distinct.

7. How connected is Valhalla to the original Assassin’s Creed games (Ezio trilogy, etc.)?

Valhalla has some connections to the original games through the overarching lore and the ongoing conflict between Assassins and Templars, but it is not directly linked to them in terms of characters or specific events.

8. Is Valhalla harder to understand if I haven’t played the previous games?

The gameplay itself is not harder to understand. However, the deeper lore and the significance of certain historical and mythological elements might be less apparent if you’re not familiar with the Assassin’s Creed universe.

9. Will I miss out on important character cameos if I skip the other games?

There is one particular character cameo from Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. It is a short side quest but enhances the overall narrative.

10. Is Assassin’s Creed Valhalla a good starting point for the series?

Many would argue yes. It offers a fresh setting, engaging gameplay, and a relatively self-contained story. It can be a great way to get into the franchise without feeling overwhelmed by the extensive lore.

11. What order should I play the Assassin’s Creed games in if I want the full story?

If you want the full story, play the games in release order. The following is the chronological release order:

• Assassin’s Creed (2007)
• Assassin’s Creed II (2009)
• Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (2010)
• Assassin’s Creed: Revelations (2011)
• Assassin’s Creed III (2012)
• Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (2013)
• Assassin’s Creed Rogue (2014)
• Assassin’s Creed Unity (2014)
• Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (2015)
• Assassin’s Creed Origins (2017)
• Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (2018)
• Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (2020)
• Assassin’s Creed Mirage (2023)

12. Where can I learn more about the Assassin’s Creed lore if I want to catch up?

There are numerous online resources available, including the Games Learning Society website (GamesLearningSociety.org), fan wikis, YouTube channels dedicated to Assassin’s Creed lore, and official Ubisoft materials.

13. Are the DLCs for Origins and Odyssey important for understanding Valhalla?

The DLCs for Origins and Odyssey expand upon the lore of the Isu and the modern-day storyline, so they can enhance your understanding of Valhalla. However, they are not essential for enjoying the main game.

14. Is there a specific game I should play before Valhalla if I only have time for one?

If you only have time for one, I’d recommend Assassin’s Creed Origins. It introduces Layla Hassan and the modern-day storyline, establishes the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood and Order of Ancients, and provides a solid foundation for understanding the overarching narrative that continues in Valhalla.

15. Does it matter which gender I choose for Eivor in Valhalla regarding the overall story?

While the game allows you to switch between male and female Eivor, it ultimately doesn’t significantly affect the main storyline. Both genders are canon.

Final Verdict: Forge Your Own Path

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to play previous Assassin’s Creed games before Valhalla is a personal one. If you’re primarily interested in the Viking setting, the raiding and settlement building, and the core gameplay mechanics, you can jump right in without any prior knowledge. However, if you’re curious about the overarching lore, the modern-day storyline, and the connections between the games, playing Origins and Odyssey will enhance your experience. So, grab your axe, set sail, and forge your own path through the world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla! Remember to visit the Games Learning Society website for more information on games and learning.