It’s that time of year again when we start looking ahead to what’s new and exciting. For fans of Viking history and culture, 2025 looks like it’s going to be a pretty good year. We’ve got new games, interesting exhibits, and some solid historical research coming out. It’s not just about the past anymore; there’s a lot happening right now that keeps the Viking spirit alive. Let’s check out some of the top picks for the year, especially if you’re looking for a good game viking experience.
Key Takeaways
- The strategy game ‘Norse’ aims to authentically recreate Viking life and is expected by the end of 2025.
- An exhibition in Australia will feature Viking artifacts, bringing the culture to a new continent.
- New research from the Icelandic Pompeii site will offer fresh insights into Viking daily life and activities.
- Neil Price’s ‘The Viking Phenomenon’ project is releasing its final results, providing a decade’s worth of Viking study.
- The popular TV series ‘Vikings: Valhalla’ continues to bring Viking sagas to a global audience.
1. Norse: The Viking Video Game
Development and Gameplay
Arctic Studios is currently developing a turn-based strategy game called Norse, aiming to accurately represent Norwegian Viking life. The game’s script was developed with input from bestselling author Giles Kristian, and the visual elements are being handled by a team of experienced game developers. While a firm release date hasn’t been announced, the developers anticipate it will be available by the end of 2025.
Key Features and Influences
- Authentic World Recreation: The game focuses on creating a historically grounded experience of Viking society.
- Strategic Depth: As a turn-based strategy title, players will likely manage resources, settlements, and military actions.
- Narrative Collaboration: The involvement of Giles Kristian suggests a strong emphasis on storytelling and historical accuracy within the game’s narrative.
The development of Norse highlights a growing trend in video games to move beyond simple combat and explore the complexities of historical cultures. This approach aims to educate players while providing an engaging strategic experience.
Anticipated Release
Norse is one of the most anticipated video games in development. Although the final release date is still unconfirmed, the current expectation is for it to launch by the close of 2025.
2. Vikings in Australia Exhibition
It’s not every day we hear about Viking happenings all the way down in Australia, but 2025 brings a rather special event to Adelaide. The South Australian Museum is set to host "Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard." This exhibition features the Galloway Hoard, which is considered one of the most significant Viking discoveries of this century. It’s a loan from National Museums Scotland and will be the main draw for the show.
The exhibition is scheduled to run from February 8th to July 27th, 2025. To celebrate this unique event, the museum is also planning a series of related activities. These include special Friday night events and a two-day Vikingfest planned for late June. This is a great chance for Australians to get up close with genuine Viking artifacts.
The Galloway Hoard Exhibition Details
- What: Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard
- Where: South Australian Museum, Adelaide
- When: February 8 – July 27, 2025
- Special Events: Friday night sessions and a Vikingfest in late June
This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to see a major Viking discovery outside of its usual location, bringing a piece of history to a new continent.
3. Key Findings from the Icelandic Pompeii
Recent excavations at the Fjörður site in Seyðisfjörður, Iceland, have uncovered remarkable insights into Viking Age life. The dig, which concluded in 2024, revealed the remains of two 10th and 11th-century longhouses and associated outbuildings. The findings suggest a significant production center, particularly for textiles, indicated by a large number of spindle whorls.
Beyond the practicalities of daily life, the site also offered glimpses into leisure activities. Several gaming pieces were found, alongside a particularly charming Viking toy, highlighting the more playful aspects of the era. A full analysis of these findings is anticipated for publication in 2025, promising to shed further light on this important discovery.
Textile Production
Evidence of Leisure Activities
Insights into Daily Life
4. Children of Ash and Elm
For families looking to immerse their children in the Viking spirit, the "Children of Ash and Elm" events offer a fantastic opportunity. These activities are designed to be both educational and incredibly fun, letting kids experience Viking life firsthand.
The "Kids Barbaric Battle" is a highlight, allowing young participants to engage in a safe, simulated combat experience. Using foam weapons and shields provided on-site, children can test their mettle in the Eye of York. It’s a chance for them to feel like real Viking warriors, with a focus on safety and supervised play. Younger children, under five, will need an adult present to join the fray.
Beyond the battlefield, the "Kids Crafting" sessions at Barley Hall are perfect for budding artists. Here, children can create traditional Viking crafts, such as "Buzz Bones" that make a distinctive sound, design their own shields, try weaving, and even paint pottery. There’s also a fun opportunity to craft a Viking beard and enter it into a competition.
For those wanting more intense training, the "Berserker Boot Camp" provides hands-on instruction in Viking combat techniques. Led by experienced individuals, kids learn with wooden swords, practice axe-throwing, and train in the famous shield wall formation. It’s a structured yet playful way to learn about Viking warrior skills.
Here’s a quick look at what’s on offer:
- Kids Barbaric Battle: A simulated combat event with provided safety gear.
- Kids Crafting: Creative sessions focusing on traditional Viking crafts.
- Berserker Boot Camp: Training in combat skills like sword fighting and shield wall tactics.
These events are carefully curated to provide an engaging and memorable experience for children, blending historical learning with active participation.
5. Blood Eye
Evening Spectacular: ‘Tyrfing. The Cursed Sword’
This event, held at the Eye of York on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM, offers a dramatic retelling of the Viking myth surrounding the cursed sword, Tyrfing. The narrative follows a king’s encounter with two dwarves who forge this magical, yet malevolent, blade. Tyrfing possesses the power to cut through any material with ease and guarantees victory for its wielder. However, its curse dictates that it must taste blood each time it is drawn, leading to inevitable death, three wicked deeds, and ruin for its user.
The performance by ‘Time Will Tell Theatre’ promises a journey into Viking lore, filled with trickery, beauty, death, and curses. Due to high demand, a second performance has been added to accommodate more attendees for this captivating show, which serves as a highlight of the Jorvik Viking Festival 2025.
- Event: Evening Spectacular: ‘Tyrfing. The Cursed Sword’
- Date: Friday, February 21, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Location: Eye of York
- Tickets: £20 for adults, £15 for concessions (seniors 60+ / children 3-16). Children under 3 are free.
- Age Restrictions: None specified.
The legend of Tyrfing is a potent reminder of the double-edged nature of power, where immense capability is bound to a destructive fate. This theatrical presentation aims to bring that cautionary tale to life.
6. Vikings: Valhalla
The television series Vikings captured the attention of many, and its successor, Vikings: Valhalla, continues this trend. This show takes viewers on a journey through the lives of some of history’s most famous Viking explorers and warriors. It delves into their struggles, triumphs, and the complex world they inhabited.
Historical Accuracy and Narrative
Vikings: Valhalla aims to portray the Viking Age with a degree of historical grounding, focusing on key figures and events. While dramatic liberties are taken for storytelling, the series draws inspiration from historical sagas and archaeological findings. It explores the conflicts between pagan and Christian beliefs, the political landscape of the era, and the voyages that shaped the known world.
Key Characters and Storylines
The series follows the journeys of notable historical figures such as Leif Erikson, Freydís Eiríksdóttir, and Harald Hardrada. Their personal stories are interwoven with larger historical narratives, including the Norman conquest of England and the ongoing exploration of new lands. The show’s exploration of these characters’ motivations and their impact on history is a significant draw for viewers.
Impact and Reception
Vikings: Valhalla has been praised for its production value, action sequences, and its continuation of the Viking saga. It has introduced a new generation to the history and mythology of the Norse people, sparking interest in further learning about this period. The series has successfully translated the epic scope of Viking history into a compelling television format.
7. The Viking Phenomenon Project
The Viking Phenomenon Project, led by Professor Neil Price from Uppsala University, represents a significant academic undertaking that has been in progress for a decade. This extensive research initiative aims to provide a fresh perspective on the Viking Age, moving beyond traditional narratives to explore the multifaceted nature of Viking society and its impact. The project’s findings are expected to be published soon, offering a detailed analysis that will likely reshape our understanding of this historical period.
The project’s comprehensive approach examines various facets of Viking life, from their trade networks and settlement patterns to their beliefs and cultural practices.
Key areas of focus include:
- Re-evaluating archaeological evidence with new methodologies.
- Investigating the social structures and daily lives of people during the Viking Age.
- Analyzing the spread of Viking influence and its interactions with other cultures.
- Exploring the evolution of Viking identity and its legacy.
This project is set to contribute substantially to the ongoing discourse surrounding Viking history, offering new insights for both academics and enthusiasts alike.
8. Jorvik Viking Festival
The Jorvik Viking Festival is a major annual event held in York, England, that celebrates the city’s rich Viking past. York was known as "Jorvik" during the Viking Age and was a significant settlement for Norse people. The festival aims to bring this history to life, offering a week-long immersion into Viking culture and daily life.
The 2025 Jorvik Viking Festival is scheduled to run from Monday, February 17th, to Sunday, February 23rd, marking its 40th anniversary. This event draws visitors from around the globe, eager to experience the atmosphere of the Viking era through a variety of engaging activities.
Historical Background of the Jorvik Viking Festival
York’s connection to the Vikings dates back to 866 AD when a large Viking army conquered the city. This occupation left a lasting impact on the region’s culture and history. Established in 1985, the Jorvik Viking Festival was created to honor and showcase this heritage. Many artifacts and historical sites from the Viking period are still preserved in the York area, providing a tangible link to the past that the festival celebrates.
What Happens at a Viking Festival?
The festival offers a wide array of activities designed to recreate the Viking Age experience. Visitors can expect:
- Living history camps and demonstrations
- Workshops on traditional Viking crafts
- Authentic Viking feasts and mead tastings
- Reenactments of battles and daily life
- Educational talks and seminars
- Parades through the city streets
- Family-friendly events and entertainment
Jorvik Viking Festival FAQ
- What date is the Viking festival in York? The 2025 Jorvik Viking Festival takes place from February 17th to February 23rd.
- What is the Jorvik festival about? It’s a week-long celebration of Viking history and culture in York, featuring reenactments, crafts, food, and more.
- What happens at a Viking festival? Activities include feasts, mead tastings, games, historical reenactments, parades, and family events.
The Jorvik Viking Festival provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past, offering a vibrant and educational experience that highlights the enduring legacy of the Vikings in England.
9. Kids Crafting at Barley Hall
Barley Hall offers a fantastic opportunity for younger visitors to get hands-on with Viking history through its Kids Crafting sessions. These events are designed to let children explore their creative side while learning about the past. Children can make their own ‘Buzz Bones,’ a traditional Viking toy that makes a buzzing sound, just as children did centuries ago.
Activities typically include:
- Crafting personal shields, allowing kids to design their own Viking insignia.
- Weaving simple braids, a skill that was common in Viking times.
- Painting pottery, giving a chance to decorate items with Norse-inspired patterns.
- Creating Viking beards, with a fun competition for the best one.
These sessions are generally recommended for children aged 4 to 12 and are usually included with general admission to Barley Hall, making it an accessible and engaging way for families to experience Viking culture.
The focus is on replicating historical crafts in a fun, accessible manner, ensuring that even the youngest attendees can connect with the Viking era through tangible creations. It’s a great way to spark an interest in history and provide a memorable, hands-on experience.
10. Berserker Boot Camp
Get ready for some serious Viking fun at the Berserker Boot Camp! This event is designed to give young adventurers a taste of what it was like to train as a Viking warrior. Led by experienced instructors, children will learn fundamental combat skills in a safe and engaging environment. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to burn off some energy and immerse themselves in Viking culture.
Activities Include:
- Combat Training: Learn to wield wooden swords and practice axe-throwing techniques.
- Shield Wall Practice: Understand the basics of forming a defensive shield wall.
- Warrior Drills: Participate in exercises that mimic Viking training routines.
Event Details:
- Dates: February 17-23, 2025
- Time: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM daily
- Location: Midgard Marquee, Parliament Street
- Age Suitability: Best for children aged 5-12
- Cost: £10 per person (drop-in activity, no pre-booking required)
This hands-on experience is perfect for children who love action and history. It’s a chance for them to step into the shoes of a young Viking and experience the excitement of warrior training firsthand. The event is structured to be both educational and incredibly fun, making it a memorable part of any Viking-themed visit.
Looking Ahead: The Viking Experience in 2025
As we wrap up our look at what’s coming in 2025, it’s clear the Viking spirit is alive and well. From new video games aiming for historical accuracy to exciting archaeological findings being shared with the public, there’s a lot to be interested in. Whether you’re drawn to the detailed strategy of a game like ‘Norse,’ the cultural insights from new books, or the real-world discoveries being made, this year promises plenty of ways to connect with Viking history. It’s a good time to be a fan of this fascinating era.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Norse” video game about?
The game “Norse” is a strategy game that aims to realistically show what life was like for Norwegian Vikings. It’s being made by Arctic Studios and is expected to be out by the end of 2025. The game’s story was written with help from a famous author, and the graphics are being created by skilled game designers.
What can I see at the Vikings in Australia exhibition?
The Vikings in Australia exhibition is happening in Adelaide at the South Australian Museum. It features the Galloway Hoard, a significant collection of Viking artifacts. The exhibition is scheduled to run until July.
What interesting things were found at the Icelandic Pompeii site?
The Icelandic Pompeii, found in Seyðisfjörður, has revealed exciting details about Viking life from the 10th and 11th centuries. Excavations showed evidence of a large textile workshop and items like gaming pieces, suggesting both work and play were important. A full report on these findings is expected in 2025.
What is “Children of Ash and Elm”?
“Children of Ash and Elm” is a history book by Neil Price that helps us understand the Viking Age better. It’s considered a key resource for learning about this historical period.
What kind of story does “Blood Eye” tell?
“Blood Eye” is a novel by Giles Kristian that takes readers on an emotional journey into the Viking world. It’s part of a series that explores the spiritual and inner lives of people during that time.
Are TV shows like “Vikings: Valhalla” popular?
Yes, the popular TV shows “Vikings” and its continuation “Vikings: Valhalla” have greatly influenced how people see Viking history. They have sparked worldwide interest in the era and its culture.
