Arctic Hazard’s brutal Viking saga lands with Tripwire Presents as publisher
It’s definitely one of the titles I’m most looking forward to, and reading the news I’m sharing with you brings me great joy. Looks like Tripwire Presents has officially joined forces with Arctic Hazard to publish NORSE: Oath of Blood, a gritty, tactical RPG set in the harsh fjords and mountains of Viking Age Norway. Slated for release in 2025, the game promises a gripping mix of turn-based strategy, settlement building, and narrative-driven vengeance—all anchored by a story crafted with the help of historical fiction author Giles Kristian (Raven, Rise of Sigurd).
In NORSE: Oath of Blood, players take on the role of Gunnar, a young warrior cast out after a brutal betrayal by Steinarr Far-Spear, the man responsible for his father’s death and the fall of his clan. What follows is a tale of survival, blood-feuds, and the forging of a new legacy.
Blending tactical combat and Norse culture, the game features battles shaped by positioning, elevation, and even Glima—the traditional Norse martial art. Outside of combat, players will manage a Viking settlement, forge alliances, and make decisions that ripple through Gunnar’s saga.
The development team includes veterans from Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey, Metro Exodus, and Age of Conan, and they’re bringing that experience to a game made specifically for fans of hardcore tactics. NORSE: Oath of Blood is available to wishlist on Steam now. and will arrive on consoles as well. The new announcement trailer offers a glimpse of its brooding landscapes and visceral combat. Below is an overview, screens, and trailer.
About This Game
- Take on the role of Gunnar, a young warrior forced into exile after his father, Jarl Gripr, is killed by the ruthless Steinarr Far-Spear.
- With his home destroyed and his people scattered, you’ll guide Gunnar as he rebuilds his settlement, forms strategic alliances, and leads his warband in a relentless pursuit of vengeance.
- Engage in turn-based battles where positioning, unit synergy, and terrain matter.
Use elevation, flanking, and environmental hazards to your advantage.- Each warrior has a unique skillset. Deploy them strategically to control the field and outsmart your enemies.
- Recruit and train a variety of fighters, each with customizable gear and upgradeable abilities that shape your tactical options
- Oversee your Viking village as it grows from a small camp into a thriving stronghold.
- Assign villagers to roles, manage resources, and upgrade buildings to unlock new units and equipment.
- Scavenge the wilds, trade with allies, and gather key resources to craft authentic weapons and armor.
- Upgrade your smithy, armory, and workshops to gain access to advanced equipment that directly impacts your combat effectiveness and village resilience.
Will you be able to lead Gunnar to triumph and restore his father’s legacy, or will the treachery of Steinarr Far-Spear be the end of your saga? The fate of your people lies in your hands.
- Written by bestselling author Giles Kristian, NORSE: Oath of Blood delivers an unforgettable, immersive saga where your decisions will determine the fate of a people.
