I chaos-crafted a wide range of small concepts that wove the player's actions into the rich tapestry of Viking lore. Sketching these ideas fast on a piece of paper, I explored the fast and cheap concepts before committing to creating time-consuming models/images. This exercise helped me find game mechanics that fit the story I want to tell. Occasionally I would google landscapes, depictions of Vikings, their raids, and their villages just to not forget the feeling I want players to experience in my game. Each concept was designed to somewhat harmonize with the historical and mythological aspects of Viking life.
Remember that these are cheap sketches and can and should be discarded easily. Let's explore some of the sketches in more detail!
Exploring game mechanics for a trading game
I started by exploring possible game mechanics to capture their adventurous spirit and entrepreneurial prowess. Here players could strategically navigate open oceans with powerful longships, encountering ports from Britain to the Baltic, and engaging in dynamic trade negotiations. Amidst rival Vikings seeking loot, players amass wealth and influence, vying for dominance. Players' “Win conditions” could include establishing the broadest alliances, resource depletion of other players, or the classical domination of taking the most territory. This immersive gameplay embodies Vikings' intricate commerce and conquest exploits.
Thinking of a Viking trading game presents the challenge of potential complexity, particularly for casual players. The intricate details of Viking trade, with its multifaceted elements such as trade routes, commodity values, and cultural dynamics, may pose a steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with board games or Viking history. Additionally, there's a risk that the game session duration could extend beyond the comfort zone of more casual players.
Religious Viking game
Creating a Viking religion game presents a delicate challenge, especially considering potential thematic elements that might be too intense or gruesome for players. The rituals, beliefs, and mythologies of the Viking religious practices can involve elements that may not align with the comfort levels of individuals unfamiliar with the historical context. Additionally, the question arises about whether there would be sufficient interest in a Viking religion-themed game. While Viking history and mythology are fascinating, there's a need to gauge the target audience's willingness to delve into the intricate aspects of religious practices. Striking a balance between historical accuracy and a gaming experience that remains enjoyable and accessible to a broad audience is essential in navigating the potential sensitivities surrounding a Viking religion game. But either way, I came up with at least some mechanics for a more religious game.
Viking Warrior game
For a warrior theme, I drew inspiration from the valor and tactics of the Norse warriors. Each mechanic, from intuitive combat controls to a leveling system, should reflect the essence of a seasoned Viking. Through design and storytelling, I aimed to create an experience where players navigate battles with strength, agility, and cunning.
Creating a Viking warrior game might hold the advantage of being well-suited for shorter game sessions with a clear ending (glory or no glory). The dynamic nature of Viking raids and skirmishes allows for intense, focused gameplay that can be efficiently condensed into shorter timeframes. Players can engage in strategic decision-making, tactical maneuvers, and decisive battles within a concise session, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying gaming experience without the commitment of lengthy playtimes. The clear objectives and defined endpoints inherent in Viking warfare scenarios could provide a natural structure for game sessions, ensuring a sense of completion and accomplishment within a relatively brief timeframe.
Game mechanics and story
As I drew some concepts and checked out some old Norse customs, I stumbled upon the practice of "Holmgång," a traditional duel where disputes were settled through combat. Intrigued by its dramatic and decisive nature, I began to contemplate its potential in my game. The idea of incorporating Holmgång into gameplay excited me, considering how it could add an exciting and strategic element to my Viking-themed game. With its blend of honor, skill, risk, and favor of the gods, Holmgång seemed a natural fit for a game seeking to capture the essence of Viking culture and internal disputes.
More about Holmgång
The old Norse "hólmganga", was a Viking tradition that served the Vikings as a method for resolving differences through combat. When two parties couldn't settle their differences through negotiation or mediation, they would agree to a Holmgång, which translates to "island walk" in Old Norse. Because the duel took place on a small, often circular, uninhabited island or a designated space marked by symbolic boundaries.
Before the duel, specific rules and conditions were established, ensuring a fair and honorable confrontation. Combatants would agree on the weapons to be used, the duration of the fight, and any potential witnesses, sometimes part of the community. The objective was not necessarily to kill the opponent but to prove one's honor, courage, and resolve. In some cases, a settlement might be reached if one combatant yielded or was unable to continue.
While Holmgång was intended as a method for resolving disputes with honor and courage, it was also exploited for nefarious purposes. In some cases, individuals with greater physical strength or combat skills would challenge weaker opponents to Holmgång as a means of coercing them into submission or gaining control over their resources, because refusing a challenge could be seen as cowardice.
The ritual reflected the importance placed on individual honor and the resolution of conflicts through physical prowess. While it may not be suitable to resolve disputes in a modern context, the dramatic and ritualized nature of Holmgång makes it a captivating element to consider when crafting a Viking-themed game. Mostly because we still negotiate and seek daily resolutions with partners, family, friends, and colleagues. This will be the time to revive the old ritual but in a more "non-deadly" and fun way!
Until next time
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Next time I will start prototyping some concepts and share some tips and tricks
Cheers
/C
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