Mastering the Two-Handed Sword in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: A Comprehensive Guide

How do you use two hands for a sword in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? The answer is simple: all greatswords (two-handed swords) are inherently used with two hands in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Unlike one-handed weapons, which can be wielded in either hand or dual-wielded, greatswords require both hands to wield effectively. When you equip a greatsword in either your main hand or off-hand slot (though they are most often in the main hand), your character, Eivor, will automatically adopt a two-handed grip. This results in slower, more powerful strikes that can stagger enemies, break defenses, and deal devastating damage. There is no separate “two-handed mode” or button to press; using a greatsword is, by default, a two-handed action. The primary attacks, light and heavy, will be executed using two hands, allowing you to fully unleash the potential of these mighty weapons.

Understanding the Mechanics of Two-Handed Combat

Light and Heavy Attacks

When wielding a two-handed sword, your attacks are determined by your input:

• Light Attack (R1/RB/Left Mouse Button): Eivor will execute a sweeping slash, using the full arc of the greatsword. While quicker than heavy attacks, they still possess significant reach and damage potential.
• Heavy Attack (R2/RT/Shift + Left Mouse Button): This attack unleashes a devastating overhead swing. It is significantly slower but packs a much more powerful punch, often staggering enemies and delivering a brutal blow. Heavy attacks are your go-to for breaking guard and finishing off weakened foes.

It’s crucial to understand the difference between these two attack types and use them strategically. Light attacks are suitable for quick, continuous damage against multiple opponents, while heavy attacks are better for breaking shields or staggering high-health enemies.

Dual Wielding Two-Handed Weapons?

While the game initially restricts you to dual-wielding one-handed weapons and shields, the Heavy Dual Wield skill allows you to equip two greatswords simultaneously. This skill dramatically changes your combat style, offering a unique, albeit slower, approach to combat. Remember, when dual-wielding, the game defaults to using the weapon in your primary (right-hand) slot for most attacks. Dual wielding two-handed weapons does not mean you attack with both simultaneously.

The Power of Greatswords

Greatswords are powerful in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla due to their:

• High damage output: They inflict more damage per hit than their one-handed counterparts.
• Significant reach: Their extended length lets you attack enemies from a safe distance.
• Staggering potential: Heavy attacks can knock back and stagger enemies, creating openings for further attacks.
• Wide sweeps: Light attacks can hit multiple enemies in front of you, making them effective against crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you dual wield swords in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?

Yes, you can dual-wield swords in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. However, initially, you are limited to dual-wielding one-handed swords. You can equip a one-handed sword in both your main and off-hand slots. Remember that the primary attacks primarily use the main-hand weapon.

2. Can you dual wield two-handed weapons in Valhalla?

Yes, with the Heavy Dual Wield skill, you can dual-wield two-handed weapons like greatswords, allowing for a unique and powerful combat approach.

3. Does dual wielding increase attack power in AC Valhalla?

Not directly. Dual-wielding doesn’t simply add the attack power of both weapons together. Your main hand weapon does most of the primary attacks. Dual-wielding offers versatility, allowing you to use different weapon types or to have a slightly different attack pattern, especially with the Heavy Dual Wield skill.

4. What is the best two-handed weapon in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?

The Excalibur Greatsword is widely considered the best two-handed weapon in the game. Its high damage output and unique perk, which blinds enemies after landing heavy finishers or critical hits, make it a formidable weapon.

5. Are there one-handed swords in AC Valhalla?

Yes, one-handed swords were introduced with The Siege of Paris DLC. However, a one-handed sword, named Coil, was also available at release in the Ubisoft store as part of the Jormungandr gear pack.

6. Where can I find Excalibur in Valhalla?

To get Excalibur, you need to collect 11 Mysterious Tablets which are located around the map. Acquiring all the tablets unlocks the sword’s location.

7. What are the different weapon types in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?

The game features a variety of weapons, including:

• Axes: Versatile melee weapons with decent damage and reach.
• Hammers: Powerful but slow, dealing heavy damage and staggering enemies.
• Flails: Unique weapons with unpredictable attack patterns.
• Daggers: Quick and agile, best for stealth and fast attacks.
• Spears: Long-reaching weapons that can maintain a safe distance.
• Swords: A good balance of speed and damage, especially one-handed swords.
• Greatswords: Powerful, two-handed weapons with high damage.
• Shields: Defensive tools, not weapons but can be used offensively.

8. What is Varin’s Axe?

Varin’s Axe is the axe wielded by Eivor’s father. It is a Bear-aligned weapon and is available early in the game. Despite being an early weapon, it can become quite powerful with upgrades.

9. Does Eivor always have a hidden blade?

Yes, Eivor receives a hidden blade as part of their story. Unlike previous Assassin’s Creed games, Eivor does not conceal the blade but wears it visibly on top of their wrist.

10. Can you get a one-handed sword without buying DLC in AC Valhalla?

No. Initially, the only way to get a one-handed sword was from the Ubisoft store or by purchasing one of the DLC packs. It was not part of the base game weapons.

11. What is a Longsword?

A longsword (also known as a hand-and-a-half sword or bastard sword) is a double-edged European sword that can be used with either one or two hands, however, in AC Valhalla the game treats this as a standard greatsword.

12. Was dual wielding swords a common practice historically?

No, despite its prevalence in fiction, dual-wielding swords was not a common practice in historical combat. It was considered impractical and inefficient due to limiting blocking capabilities, force distribution issues and the lack of true speed increase.

13. What are Dimachaeri?

Dimachaeri were Roman gladiators who fought with two swords. They are among the rare historical examples of those who used two swords.

14. Is there a hidden blade in AC Valhalla?

Yes, there is a hidden blade in AC Valhalla and Eivor wears it visibly on their wrist. The hidden blade is an important part of Eivor’s arsenal, allowing for stealthy assassinations.

15. What is the rarest weapon in Valhalla?

Mjölnir, Thor’s hammer, is one of the rarest weapons in the game. To obtain it, you must first acquire all of Thor’s armor by defeating the Daughters of Lerion and then using their daggers in a crypt near the Yare River.

By understanding the mechanics and nuances of two-handed combat in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, you can effectively utilize greatswords and other two-handed weapons to dominate the battlefield. Experiment with different strategies and weapon combinations to find your preferred play style and become a truly formidable Viking warrior.