Different, but a totally fun Simulation adventure.
Some key points that this game offers:
- Procedurally generated maps
- Sandbox Gameplay
- Full Sim experience
Gameplay & Controls:
The game controls are rather simple. There is nothing major about them. This however is the nature of the game itself. You start with a few Vikings, from there you place buildings that they will start building.
The only really issue here is that you do not control your Viking movements at all. They move and act independently, which seems fine at first, but as you expand and grow in size this becomes a problem when you need them to focus on specific tasks and areas. The lack of prioritizing tasks as well further makes it difficult to fully enjoy what the game offers, especially if your aim is to fully take over a map and see how far and big you can build.
Graphics:
Remarkably beautiful. The maps are vibrant and full of colour. There are loads of details for your viewing pleasure. There is a variety of different Flora species that add a unique appearance to each map. The landscape is beautifully generated in 3D every time. The 3D aspect beautifully enhances each map; showcasing the flat surfaces and how the inclines get higher as hills and mountain sides come into view.
Character models and building details have received a lot effort and creative input. Our characters are a real treat to look at. Under the settings panel we have some options to customize our gameplay.
Sounds:
Quite soothing, and very relaxing. The background music really enhances the gameplay. It adds that soothing feeling to the game. Buildings and management are more fun and entertaining. The soundtrack itself is well implemented into the game too. All in all, this music for the game really spruces it up and adds to the overall quality.
Replayability:
The game is all about replaying it. No map is ever the same, the randomly generated maps will make each one you play unique in size and appearance.
MGR Gaming’s Conclusions:
Spoilers Ahead:
Valhalla Hills is a fun game, there is no doubt there. However, it is overpriced for what it offers. Even though the game represents itself as a Sandbox experience where you have to play and gain Honor so that your Vikings can reach Valhalla, it gets repetitive way too fast.
The game feels without direction, you are thrown into a random mix that lacks a lot of structure. Don’t get me wrong, the game is fun, but it withers away very fast, and offers very little reason to want to play it again. The fact that you cannot control your Vikings is a big part of it. Especially since this is a management sim where managing your workforce is one of the key aspects.
This game has a lot of potential and I really hope that they patch it and update some of the features. It has the potential to become a stunning game.
Additional Info:
Platforms: PC: Linux: Mac: PlayStation 4: Steam OS
Genre: City Builder: Fantasy: Indie: Mythology: Management: Simulation: Strategy
Censor Rating: n/a
Age Rating: n/a
Developer: Funatics Software
Publisher: Daedalic Entertainment
Release Date: 2 December 2015
MGR Gaming Steam Curator:
https://store.steampowered.com/curator/32364038/
