When Should You Start Asgard in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla? A Comprehensive Guide
The Asgard storyline in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla offers a fascinating, mythical break from the main narrative in England. However, jumping into it too early or too late can diminish the experience. So, when should you embark on Eivor’s journey through the realm of the gods?
The most optimal time to start the Asgard arc is after reaching a Power Level of around 90-100 and completing the main story arcs in Grantebridgescire and Ledecestrescire. This ensures you have a strong enough character to handle the combat challenges in Asgard and that you’re invested enough in Eivor’s journey to appreciate the thematic connections between the Norse mythology and the Viking saga.
Why Power Level Matters
Asgard features enemies that are significantly tougher than those found in the early regions of England. Entering under-leveled will lead to frustrating combat encounters and potentially force you to leave and level up, disrupting the flow of the story. A Power Level of 90-100 gives you a fighting chance and allows you to enjoy the story without constantly struggling for survival. Focus on completing world events, side quests, and raiding monasteries to gain experience and upgrade your gear before venturing to Asgard.
Story Progression and Narrative Impact
The Asgard storyline is presented as a series of visions experienced by Eivor. It explores themes of fate, destiny, and the connection between the Norse gods and Eivor’s own life. Starting it too early, before Eivor’s character is fully developed and before you’ve experienced some of the major events in England, can dilute the emotional impact. Completing the Grantebridgescire and Ledecestrescire arcs provides a solid foundation for understanding Eivor’s motivations and appreciating the parallels between the events in England and the events in Asgard. You can get the Seer Valka located in your settlement to kick start the story arc after building her hut by using the resources to upgrade the settlement.
Balancing Exploration and Story
While the main narrative in England should take precedence, it’s important to break up the gameplay with something different, so the Asgard arc can be the perfect change of scenery. It gives a change to clear the mind from all the settlement management and forging alliances and taking a break into a world that is filled with Norse Mythology.
Key Benefits of Starting at the Right Time
- Enjoyable Combat: You won’t be constantly overwhelmed by enemies.
- Enhanced Narrative Understanding: The story will resonate more deeply.
- Seamless Integration: The Asgard arc will feel like a natural extension of Eivor’s journey.
- Avoided Frustration: Minimizes the need to repeatedly return to England to level up.
- Full Appreciation: Maximizes your appreciation for the world design and narrative themes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Asgard in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
1. How do I unlock the Asgard storyline?
You unlock the Asgard storyline by building the Seer’s Hut in your settlement, Ravensthorpe. This requires reaching Settlement Level 3. After building the hut, speak to Valka, the Seer, and she will give you a potion to drink that sends Eivor into the Asgard visions.
2. What is the recommended gear for Asgard?
Aim for at least Superior-level gear (blue) before heading to Asgard. Upgrading your armor and weapons is crucial. Consider focusing on gear that enhances your melee damage and survivability.
3. Can I return to England from Asgard?
Yes, you can return to England from Asgard at any time. Simply open the map, select the Atlas, and choose England. This will wake Eivor from the vision. You can then drink the potion again to return to Asgard whenever you like.
4. Are there any unique items or abilities I can obtain in Asgard?
Yes, Asgard offers several unique items and abilities. You can obtain powerful weapons, new combat skills, and resources that can be used to upgrade your gear back in England.
5. Is the Asgard storyline connected to the main story of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
Yes, the Asgard storyline is intrinsically connected to the overall narrative. It provides context for Eivor’s destiny and sheds light on the Isu mythology that underlies the Assassin’s Creed universe. The events in Asgard mirror some of the events in Eivor’s life.
6. Can I complete the Asgard storyline before finishing the main story in England?
Yes, you can complete the Asgard storyline before finishing the main story in England. However, it is recommended to intersperse it with the main story. Completing the Asgard arc too early might reduce the emotional impact of certain events later in the game.
7. Does completing Asgard affect the ending of the game?
While completing Asgard doesn’t directly alter the specific ending you receive, it adds depth to your understanding of the overall story and the motivations of certain characters. It enriches the overall experience and provides crucial context.
8. Are there any missable items or quests in Asgard?
No, there are no known missable items or quests in Asgard. You can freely explore the realm and complete all the available content at your own pace.
9. How long does it take to complete the Asgard storyline?
The Asgard storyline typically takes 8-12 hours to complete, depending on your play style and how thoroughly you explore the realm.
10. What happens after I finish the Asgard storyline?
After completing the Asgard storyline, you can return to England and continue your journey. You will also unlock the Jotunheim arc, which is the next chapter in Eivor’s visions of Norse mythology.
11. Is Asgard a mandatory part of the Assassin’s Creed Valhalla story?
While not strictly mandatory, the Asgard storyline is highly recommended. It provides valuable context for the overall narrative and enhances your understanding of Eivor’s journey. Skipping it would mean missing out on a significant portion of the game’s lore and mythology.
12. Does the difficulty of Asgard scale with my Power Level?
Yes, the enemies in Asgard will pose a challenge regardless of your Power Level, but being appropriately leveled makes the experience far more enjoyable and less frustrating. Attempting Asgard at a significantly lower Power Level is not recommended.
13. Can I replay the Asgard storyline?
Yes, you can replay the Asgard storyline by drinking Valka’s potion again. This allows you to re-experience the events and collect any items you may have missed.
14. Are there any side activities or collectibles in Asgard?
Yes, Asgard is filled with side activities, including world events, puzzles, and collectibles. Exploring the realm thoroughly will reward you with valuable resources, new gear, and a deeper understanding of Norse mythology. There are Tears of Ymir for example, which you must collect to get special armor in Asgard.
15. What happens if I start Asgard too early?
If you start Asgard too early, you may find yourself struggling with combat and the story might not resonate as deeply. You can always return to England to level up and then come back to Asgard later when you’re better prepared. The experience will be much more rewarding if you approach it at the right time.
In conclusion, while the allure of Asgard is strong, patience is key. Build your settlement, strengthen Eivor, and complete a few key story arcs in England before embarking on this epic journey. Doing so will ensure you have a truly memorable and immersive experience in the realm of the gods.