Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Should You Punch Basim or Take a Breath? The Ultimate Guide
The moment of truth has arrived. You’ve battled your way through hordes of enemies in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and now you stand before Basim, simmering with rage. The game throws you a curveball: “Take a breath” or “Punch Basim.” So, which do you choose? Take a Breath. Choosing to punch Basim can negatively affect your relationship with Sigurd and potentially lock you out of the game’s true ending, so proceed with caution.
Understanding the Consequences of Your Choice
The “Punch Basim” dilemma isn’t just a spur-of-the-moment decision; it’s a crucial turning point that has lasting ramifications on your playthrough. Your choice directly impacts Sigurd’s loyalty, which, in turn, influences the ending you ultimately receive. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla features multiple endings, and Sigurd’s loyalty is one of the key factors determining which one you unlock.
Choosing the “Take a Breath” option avoids angering both Basim and Sigurd. The article states punching both Basim and Sigurd will lower your loyalty with Sigurd and affect the ending. Choosing not to punch Basim or Sigurd then your loyalty will stay the same.
The Impact on Sigurd’s Loyalty
Sigurd’s loyalty acts as a kind of moral compass for Eivor’s journey. Maintaining a positive relationship with him unlocks the “best” ending, while alienating him leads to less satisfying conclusions. The game keeps a tally of your decisions, and certain actions—like disregarding Sigurd’s judgment or undermining his authority—can decrease his loyalty.
The “Punch Basim” decision falls squarely into this category. Giving in to your anger can be seen as a sign of impulsiveness and a lack of respect for Sigurd, which can damage your bond.
The Significance of the True Ending
The true ending of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla provides the most complete resolution to Eivor’s story and offers deeper insights into the overarching narrative of the Assassin’s Creed universe. Achieving this ending requires careful navigation of key choices throughout the game, with Sigurd’s loyalty being a crucial factor. Choosing to punch Basim can jeopardize your chances of unlocking the true ending.
Therefore, resisting the urge to punch Basim and opting for the “Take a Breath” option is the safest bet for those seeking the most rewarding and comprehensive conclusion to Eivor’s saga. It signals maturity and control, traits that align with the game’s nuanced exploration of leadership and responsibility.
Delving Deeper into the World of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
To better understand the significance of this choice, let’s delve into the complex relationships and lore that underpin the game’s narrative.
Basim’s Enigmatic Nature
Basim Ibn Ishaq is a character shrouded in mystery. Initially appearing as an ally, his true motives and allegiances are gradually revealed as the story unfolds.
The article states that he turns out to be a bonafide bad guy in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and yet his origin story in this game is one far more endearing and earnest. The article also says that Basim might want to be trusted a little too much. Cryptic and not entirely trustworthy, Basim seems a little too keen to help Sigurd and Eivor in their quest to expand their operations in Norway and England.
He is also revealed to be the reincarnation of Loki.
The Influence of Norse Mythology
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla draws heavily on Norse mythology, weaving fantastical elements into its historical setting. Characters like Eivor and Sigurd are depicted as reincarnations of Norse gods, adding layers of complexity to their motivations and actions.
Eivor is a reincarnation of Odin, who instead of being a literal Norse deity is an Isu in the larger Assassin’s Creed mythology. Also, in Norse mythology, Sigurd is not a god. He is considered to be a descendent of Odin, as his ancestor Sigi was known to be a son of Odin.
The Isu Connection
The Isu are an ancient, advanced civilization that predates humanity in the Assassin’s Creed universe. Their technology and knowledge have left a lasting impact on the world, and their influence is felt throughout the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Basim and the Ending
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide further clarification and context:
1. Is Basim a good or bad guy?
Basim’s morality is complex. While initially appearing as an ally, he ultimately emerges as an antagonist. The article says that Basim Ibn Ishaq turns out to be a bonafide bad guy in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and yet his origin story in this game is one far more endearing and earnest.
2. Should I trust Basim?
Given his hidden agenda, exercising caution around Basim is advisable. Cryptic and not entirely trustworthy, Basim seems a little too keen to help Sigurd and Eivor.
3. Does Basim hate Eivor?
As the reincarnation of Loki, Basim seeks revenge against those he perceives as responsible for his past suffering, including Eivor (Odin).
4. Is Basim Altair’s father?
No, Umar Ibn-La’Ahad is Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad father. But given that they do seem to look similar, there is a chance that Basim could be a direct ancestor of Altair.
5. Who is Basim’s lover?
His goal was to be reunited with his lover Aletheia, whose consciousness was preserved within the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus.
6. Why did Basim turn evil?
He was betrayed by all of his friends and wants revenge. When Loki took over Basim, he only saw Eivor as Odin and no one else, it only makes sense that he wants vengeance for his son. He isn’t evil, he just loved his son and hated betrayal.
7. Does Basim become Loki?
Basim Ibn Ishaq was the reincarnation of Loki, who was an Isu and member of the Æsir, and inherited the memories of his the Norse god of mischief.
8. Is Basim missing a finger?
Equipping Basim’s Outfit to Eivor not only moves the Hidden Blade beneath her wrist, but it also removes her ring finger entirely.
9. Why is Basim so important?
At the end of AC Valhalla, it’s revealed that the consciousness of Loki managed to reawaken within Basim, who came into possession of the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus after Layla entered the Grey. This reanimated Basim’s body and established him as the new driver of the present-day storyline.
10. Is Basim the fastest assassin?
Dispite being marketed as the fastest assassin, basim’s flow of movement can be slugish sometimes and is very slow between animations and set pieces, that being said i still manage to produce very fast paced runs on my mirage videos as i think it fits the protagonists character, him being a street thief and all that.
11. Is it better for Sigurd to stay or leave?
Sigurd will want to leave the treasure as-is as tribute for King Styrbjorn. If you want to get the best ending, ignore your greedy impulses and choose the “We leave the resources for Styrbjorn” option. Do this for brownie points with Sigurd both now and later on in the narrative.
12. Can you avoid betraying Sigurd?
Leaving the cargo behind maintains your loyalty with Sigurd. At some point in the game (after East Anglia), you can choose to begin a romance with Randvi. You must wait until they are separated to avoid impacting your loyalty with Sigurd.
13. Is Sigurd really a God?
In Norse mythology, Sigurd is not a god. He is considered to be a descendent of Odin, as his ancestor Sigi was known to be a son of Odin.
14. Did Basim really have a son?
In Valhalla when Basim talks about his past with Eivor around the campfire he talks about how he had a son and how a very close and trusted friend and mentor of his took his son from him.
15. How old is Basim?
We know that Basim start the journey with Hidden Ones at the age of 17, and it’s confirmed that the story of Mirage begins in 861, which means Basim was born in 844. And that make him only 33 years old in 877 when he was hung on the tree.
Making Informed Choices in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Ultimately, the decision to punch Basim or take a breath is a microcosm of the larger choices players face throughout Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. The game rewards careful consideration and a deep understanding of its intricate narrative threads. By paying attention to the consequences of your actions, you can shape Eivor’s destiny and unlock the true potential of this epic Viking saga. Engaging with communities and resources dedicated to game analysis, such as the Games Learning Society, can provide further insights and perspectives on the game’s complex themes and mechanics. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
Remember, the best ending isn’t just about achieving a specific outcome; it’s about crafting a narrative that resonates with your own sense of justice, honor, and leadership. So, take a deep breath, consider the ramifications, and choose wisely. Your Viking saga awaits.
Games provide a fertile ground for exploring decision-making and consequence. These can be useful tools for both entertainment and education.