Table of Contents

The Unspoken Truth: What Happens When You Question Sigurd’s Judgement in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?

In the sprawling world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, your choices matter. Every dialogue option, every decision you make, ripples through the narrative, shaping Eivor’s destiny and the fate of their clan. One such pivotal moment arrives when you have the opportunity to voice your opinion on Sigurd’s judgement. Choosing to say that Sigurd’s judgement is unfair has a direct consequence: it counts as a strike against you in achieving the game’s “true” ending. More specifically, accumulating too many such strikes (3 or more out of 5 key decisions) will lead to the worst possible ending for Eivor and their relationship with Sigurd.

The Sigurd Loyalty System: Understanding the Stakes

Sigurd, Eivor’s adoptive brother, is central to the Valhalla narrative. Your relationship with him directly impacts the ending you receive. The game employs a hidden loyalty system where specific choices either strengthen or weaken your bond. Questioning his authority, disagreeing with his decisions, or acting against his wishes contributes to this ‘disloyalty’. The game identifies five major choices that heavily influence this loyalty system, and disagreeing with Sigurd’s judgement in certain situations can lead to a negative outcome.

A Brewing Storm: The Axe of Discord

During the quest “A Brewing Storm,” you face the volatile Dag in combat. After defeating him, you are presented with a choice: grant Dag his axe for his journey to Valhalla, or deny him this Viking tradition. Giving Dag his axe, despite any personal feelings you may have towards him, is seen as a respectful gesture, a display of Viking honor. Denying him this rite can contribute to Sigurd’s disapproval and increase the likelihood of a negative ending. Therefore, in “A Brewing Storm”, giving Dag his axe after you defeat him in battle helps you avoid impacting your loyalty with Sigurd in a negative way.

Blame and Sail: Navigating the Holger and Gundrun Dispute

The side quest “Blame and Sail” presents another opportunity to either reinforce or undermine Sigurd’s authority. In this quest, you’re tasked with mediating a dispute between Holger and Gundrun. Sigurd renders a judgement, and you can either support his decision or side with the aggrieved party. Siding with Sigurd reinforces your loyalty and avoids a strike against you. Siding with Holger in this dispute, however, disrespects Sigurd’s leadership and will count negatively towards the final outcome. Specifically, in side quest Blame and Sail, you must side with Sigurd’s judgement regarding the dispute between Holger and Gundrun.

More Than Just Dialogue: Actions Speak Louder

While dialogue choices concerning Sigurd’s judgement are critical, your actions throughout the game also play a significant role. Respecting Viking traditions, prioritizing the clan’s well-being, and refraining from acts of aggression towards Sigurd all contribute to a positive relationship.

The Punch Heard ‘Round England: Avoiding Physical Altercations

While moments of frustration may arise, it’s crucial to restrain yourself from physically assaulting Sigurd. Punching Sigurd is another action that negatively affects your loyalty with Sigurd. It symbolizes a deep disrespect and will actively work against achieving the “true” ending. If you choose not to punch Basim or Sigurd then your loyalty will stay the same.

Romance and Respect: Navigating Relationships Carefully

Romance in Valhalla is more than just finding a partner; it’s about navigating complex relationships with respect and consideration. While Randvi is a romance option, pursuing a relationship with her before she and Sigurd end their own relationship can create friction and negatively impact your loyalty.

Randvi’s Heart: Timing is Everything

The safest approach is to wait until Sigurd and Randvi have formally ended their relationship before pursuing her romantically. This demonstrates respect for Sigurd and avoids unnecessary conflict.

The Bigger Picture: Understanding the True Ending

The “true” ending in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is subjective, but it generally refers to an ending where Eivor maintains a strong relationship with Sigurd, leads their clan to prosperity, and finds a sense of belonging in their new home. Achieving this requires careful consideration of your choices and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of the clan above personal desires.

The Consequences of Disloyalty: A Grim Outcome

Failing to maintain a strong bond with Sigurd results in a less desirable ending. Eivor may find themselves isolated, alienated from their clan, and burdened by regret. The choices you make truly shape Eivor’s destiny and the destiny of their clan.

Making Informed Decisions: A Path to Success

By understanding the nuances of the Sigurd loyalty system, players can navigate the complex narrative of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla with greater confidence. Choose your words carefully, act with respect, and prioritize the well-being of your clan to secure the best possible outcome for Eivor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Sigurd’s judgement, the loyalty system, and the ending of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla:

How many Sigurd strikes are there? There are five primary choices throughout the game that determine the ending you receive. Accumulating three or more negative choices results in the worst ending.
Can I punch Sigurd and still get the good ending? No. Punching Sigurd will lower your loyalty and negatively impact your chances of achieving the best ending.
Should I say Sigurd’s judgement is unfair? Generally, no. Saying that Sigurd’s judgement is unfair counts as a strike against you. Unless it’s a scenario that would dramatically impact the safety of your clan, agreeing with his judgement can yield better results for the overall game.
Should Eivor sleep with Randvi? The best choice here is to wait for the two to break up. You will be able to hook up with her later safely, after Sigurd and Randvi break up. This way, you won’t upset Sigurd and risk the ending you’ll get.
What happens if I side with Holger? If the player sides with Holger, Rowan receives no punishment other than a verbal reprimand. Instead, Holger is forced to apologize (in a rather over-the-top way) and promise to never do it again, a promise he will break later. It also counts as a negative mark with Sigurd.
Does Sigurd break up with Randvi? Yes, Sigurd and Randvi eventually divorce. After this, there is no penalty for you to pursue a relationship with Randvi.
How can I avoid betraying Sigurd? Avoid questioning his authority, support his decisions when reasonable, and refrain from actions that undermine his leadership. Give Dag his axe and side with Sigurd’s judgment in “Blame and Sail.”
Is romancing Randvi a bad idea? It’s only a bad idea if you pursue her before she and Sigurd end their relationship. Waiting until after their separation is the safest approach.
What is the good ending in Valhalla? The good ending typically involves Eivor maintaining a strong relationship with Sigurd, leading their clan to a thriving settlement, and finding peace in England. In the Glowecestrescire arc, 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.
How much older is Sigurd than Eivor? Sigurd is five years older than Eivor.
Does Basim betray Sigurd? Yes, Basim betrays Sigurd and is revealed to be the reincarnation of Loki.
Can Eivor cheat on Randvi? Eivor’s flings escape Randvi’s attention, and don’t typically effect the ending of the game. Sleeping with certain characters will not affect Eivor’s relationship with Randvi.
Who can you marry in AC Valhalla? Eivor cannot truly marry anyone. The game offers romance options, not formal marriages.
Is Sigurd really a God? No, Sigurd is not a god in Norse mythology. He is a descendant of Odin.
Where can I learn more about the educational potential of video games? You can explore the fascinating intersection of gaming and learning at the Games Learning Society website (https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/). GamesLearningSociety.org dives into all aspects of gaming and learning.

What happens if you say Sigurd’s Judgement is unfair?