Is the Raven Clan Armor Good in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? A Deep Dive
Yes, the Raven Clan armor is a surprisingly viable choice throughout Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, especially for new players. While it’s the default armor set Eivor starts with, its unique perk, which boosts armor at low health, makes it a dependable option for both early-game survivability and, with proper upgrading, a solid contender even in later stages. Its alignment with the Raven skill tree also makes it a synergistic choice for players embracing that playstyle. But is it the best armor? That depends on your playstyle and goals. Let’s unpack why the Raven Clan armor deserves more credit than many players initially give it and explore how it stacks up against other options.
The Strengths of the Raven Clan Armor
The Raven Clan armor’s initial strength lies in its accessibility. You acquire most of the set very early in the game, essentially within the first few hours of gameplay in Norway. This immediate availability gives you a head start on gearing up and provides a baseline of protection as you explore the harsh Viking world.
Early-Game Survivability
Its perk, granting increased armor when health is low, is particularly useful early on. When you’re still learning combat mechanics and facing enemies with relatively high damage output compared to your starting health, that extra layer of defense can be the difference between victory and death. It essentially acts as a safety net, providing a buffer during those crucial moments when you’re caught off guard or making mistakes.
Synergistic with the Raven Skill Tree
The Raven Clan armor is aligned with the Raven skill tree, which focuses on stealth, assassination, and ranged combat. Players who prefer a more subtle approach, utilizing the hidden blade and bows, will find that this armor set complements their chosen playstyle. The armor’s stats provide a good balance of protection and agility, allowing you to move quickly and silently through enemy territories.
Upgradability and Viability Throughout the Game
Don’t dismiss the Raven Clan armor as merely a starting set. It can be upgraded multiple times, improving its stats and even changing its appearance. Investing in upgrades can make it surprisingly effective even in the later stages of the game. While it might not offer the raw power of some specialized sets, its balanced stats and helpful perk make it a reliable choice for those who prefer a versatile playstyle. For players looking for educational resources on gaming and its impact, organizations like the Games Learning Society offer valuable insights. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
The Weaknesses of the Raven Clan Armor
Of course, the Raven Clan armor isn’t without its drawbacks.
Lack of Specialization
Compared to armor sets designed for specific builds (like the Bear-aligned Brigandine Armor for tanky melee fighters or the Wolf-aligned Huntsman Armor for ranged damage dealers), the Raven Clan armor lacks specialization. It provides a general boost to survivability but doesn’t excel in any particular area.
Outshined by Late-Game Sets
As you progress through the game and acquire more powerful armor sets, the Raven Clan armor’s stats will eventually be outshined. Sets like Thor’s Armor or the Brigandine Armor offer significantly higher armor values and more potent perks, making them more attractive options for players seeking maximum power.
Not Ideal for Specific Playstyles
If you’re aiming for a highly specialized build, such as a pure melee tank or a dedicated ranged assassin, the Raven Clan armor might not be the best choice. Other armor sets offer perks that are better suited for those specific playstyles, providing greater damage output or survivability.
Comparing the Raven Clan Armor to Other Options
To truly assess the Raven Clan armor’s value, it’s essential to compare it to other notable sets.
Raven Clan Armor vs. Brigandine Armor
The Brigandine Armor is a Bear-aligned set that excels in melee combat. Its perk increases armor when surrounded by enemies and boosts melee damage. While the Raven Clan armor offers early-game survivability, the Brigandine Armor provides a significant boost to both offense and defense, making it a superior choice for players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle.
Raven Clan Armor vs. Huntsman Armor
The Huntsman Armor is a Wolf-aligned set designed for ranged combat. Its perk increases ranged damage after dodging. If you primarily use bows and arrows, the Huntsman Armor is a much better choice than the Raven Clan armor.
Raven Clan Armor vs. Thor’s Armor
Thor’s Armor is a powerful set obtained by completing a series of challenging quests. Its perk increases speed when stunning an enemy and boosts stun chance. While difficult to acquire, Thor’s Armor offers a significant power boost and is considered one of the best sets in the game.
Is the Raven Clan Armor Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use the Raven Clan armor depends on your personal preferences and playstyle.
Consider Using the Raven Clan Armor If:
- You’re new to the game and need a reliable starting set.
- You prefer a balanced playstyle that combines stealth, melee, and ranged combat.
- You want an armor set that complements the Raven skill tree.
- You enjoy the aesthetic of the Raven Clan armor and want to stick with it throughout the game.
- You want a reliable armor with a low-health armor boost.
Consider Using a Different Armor Set If:
- You’re aiming for a highly specialized build.
- You prioritize maximum power over versatility.
- You prefer a specific playstyle, such as a pure melee tank or a dedicated ranged assassin.
- You want an armor set with more potent perks.
Conclusion
The Raven Clan armor might not be the absolute best armor in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, but it’s far from being a useless option. Its early-game accessibility, balanced stats, and helpful perk make it a reliable choice for players who value versatility and survivability. With proper upgrading, it can remain viable throughout the game. However, players seeking maximum power or specialized builds may want to consider other options. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and how you choose to play the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the pieces of the Raven Clan armor set?
The Raven Clan armor set consists of five pieces: the Raven Clan Helmet, the Raven Clan Armor (chest piece), the Raven Clan Bracers, the Raven Clan Pants, and the Raven Clan Cloak.
2. Where can I find the Raven Clan armor?
Most pieces are acquired early in the game in Norway, during the “Honor Bound” quest. The helmet is obtained after defeating Kjotve in “A Cruel Destiny.”
3. What is the perk of the Raven Clan armor?
The perk of the Raven Clan armor is that it increases your armor stat when your health is low.
4. Is the Raven Clan armor good for beginners?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for beginners due to its early availability and survivability perk.
5. Can I upgrade the Raven Clan armor?
Yes, the Raven Clan armor can be upgraded at a blacksmith using resources found throughout the game. Upgrading it improves its stats and even changes its appearance.
6. Is the Raven Clan armor better than the Huntsman armor?
The Huntsman armor is better for players who focus on ranged combat, while the Raven Clan armor is more versatile.
7. How does the Raven Clan armor compare to the Brigandine armor?
The Brigandine armor is superior in terms of raw power and melee-focused perks, while the Raven Clan armor is more balanced.
8. Is Thor’s armor better than the Raven Clan armor?
Yes, Thor’s armor is generally considered superior due to its powerful stats and perk. However, it’s much harder to acquire.
9. What skill tree does the Raven Clan armor align with?
The Raven Clan armor aligns with the Raven skill tree, which focuses on stealth, assassination, and ranged combat.
10. What is the Jarl of the Raven Clan armor?
The Jarl of the Raven Clan Armor refers to the fully upgraded version of the Raven Clan Armor, reflecting Eivor’s status as jarl.
11. Can I change the appearance of the Raven Clan armor?
Yes, you can change the appearance of the Raven Clan armor through transmogrification at the blacksmith after finding the required materials.
12. What are the best weapons to use with the Raven Clan armor?
Weapons that complement the Raven playstyle, such as daggers, short swords, and bows, are good choices to pair with the Raven Clan armor.
13. Is the Raven Clan a real clan from Viking history?
While the settlement of Ravensthorpe in the game is fictional, clans with raven banners were common in Viking culture.
14. Why is the Raven Clan armor Eivor’s default outfit?
It is a narrative choice, symbolizing Eivor’s identity and connection to the Raven Clan.
15. Does upgrading the Raven Clan armor change its appearance?
Yes, upgrading the Raven Clan armor multiple times will alter its appearance, reflecting Eivor’s growing power and status.