Volgarr the Viking II is the sequel to the iconic 2013 indie title. The original was adored for its blend of brutality and wonderful stage design. Additionally, the power-up system was simple but effective. Roll on 11 years and its bigger brother is back in town. However, this much-anticipated follow-up doesn’t do its predecessor justice. Unfortunately, the comfortable blend of risk vs. reward has been removed, and the action is far too challenging. This borderline sadomasochistic approach made me curse and scream as I died repeatedly.
This hardcore 2D side-scrolling affair was developed and published by Digital Eclipse. Moreover, it is a single-player experience that has a gloriously old-school aesthetic. However, the limited mechanics, tough enemies, and challenging level design will make you question your life choices. Consequently, this game could be one step too far unless you love a brutal time.
Volgarr the Viking II treads familiar ground.
You play the part of the titular hero. This Norse warrior wields a mighty sword as he faces an army of undead creatures. Waves of monsters stand in his way and he must slay them with his sword, or pierce them with his spear as he navigates each of the 5 standard worlds. En route, you’ll discover a 6th secret area that’ll push your buttons and test your resolve.
If you have played the original, you will recognise many of the core mechanics. Furthermore, the enemies are the same, bringing back some great memories. However, if you are new to the franchise, worry not. You don’t need to have played the original to have your arse kicked repeatedly. Subsequently, installing this is guaranteed to break your balls!
A hero with limited talents.
A Norse warrior should be all-singing and all-dancing. Yet, Volgarr’s approach to life is pretty limited. Once he jumps, you have no further input. As such, if you hit an enemy, it’s tough. Therefore, you are forced to plan meticulously if you wish to navigate each obstacle. The hero can use his spear to create temporary platforms. What’s more, a double jump allows you to slash enemies in the air. This is very handy until they decide to hit you back.
Why would that be a problem? Well, the hero has a glass chin. Accordingly, unless you have gathered an array of magical items from each hidden chest, you will die once you are struck. This instadeath idea worked incredibly well in the original, but the sequel isn’t as well executed, so death and failure are all too familiar.
The special gear changes things nicely, however. The magic boots create a sort of lightning effect and the sword enhances your striking power. If you are lucky enough to grab the helmet before you are hit, you will increase your attack speed. Each of these items is essential if you wish to progress and take down the main boss in each of the levels.
Volgarr the Viking II captures a retro vibe.
Though the gameplay was limited and I think it fails to replicate the balance of the original, I loved the retro vibe. The pixelated finish is complemented by the sinister and dark colour palette. The blocky graphics won’t test modern machines, but I loved the simple animation and the familiar monsters. Alongside this, the levels are larger and more interesting to explore. As such, it was tough to find every treasure chest, but it was enjoyable to manipulate each situation to your advantage.
Though Volgarr has a limited range of movement, you can use the gradient and platforms to change your angle of attack. Additionally, you must understand each enemy’s weak point if you wish to overcome every obstacle. This simple idea was brilliantly delivered even though it ramps up the difficulty significantly.
The sinister imagery is enhanced by the overbearing audio. The booming voice of the protagonist and the odd sound effects create a seedy and uncomfortable fantasy experience. On top of this, the music is wonderfully dramatic. The upbeat orchestral tunes add suspense and danger to each fight and challenging parkour element.
Straightforward controls.
The refined mechanics and movement work particularly well with a controller. However, mastering the finer details and identifying each weakness is easier said than done. As such, you will need to be patient and plan if you wish to tackle the long list of foes and obstacles you’ll face.
If you love to die, die, and die again, then Volgarr the Viking II will be the addictive hit you are looking for. Moreover, if you wish to explore a dank and tough world that will punish your every error, then this ticks that box as well. As such, the 6 worlds, 12 levels, and a handful of bosses will push you and this creates a cruel sense of replay value and longevity.
Volgarr the Viking II isn’t for the faint of heart.
I loved the original and had high hopes for this. Volgarr the Viking II doesn’t quite live up to its predecessor, which was unfortunate. The action isn’t as balanced and this causes unnecessary frustration. Furthermore, it feels as if the developer wanted to create a brutally tough game that attracts a hardcore niche. If this was their goal, then they have succeeded. Though it wasn’t for me, it has its positives and I recommend buying it here! Can you prove your worth as a Norse warrior? Master your skills, identify every weakness, and stay alive for as long as possible.
