Zombie Vikings! A Retro Platformer Overflowing with Gore and Nordic Mythology
Prepare yourself for a raucous romp through Viking Valhalla, seasoned liberally with buckets of blood and gut-busting humor. Zombie Vikings, developed by the creative minds at Zootfly and published by Modus Games in 2015, is a side-scrolling platformer that marries classic arcade action with a deliciously absurd premise: resurrected Norse heroes on a quest to rescue their beloved Valkyrie from the clutches of the evil Loki.
This game isn’t afraid to embrace its zany nature. The core gameplay revolves around controlling four unique zombie Vikings, each wielding distinct abilities and weapons. You’ve got Gunnie, the fiery redhead with a penchant for explosive weaponry; Siv, the agile warrior who favors swift strikes and acrobatic maneuvers; Olaf, the hulking powerhouse who bashes enemies into oblivion; and finally, Baerd, the burly berserker whose axe swings cleave through hordes like butter.
The level design is refreshingly diverse, taking you from snow-capped mountains and icy fjords to fiery volcanoes and ancient burial grounds. Along the way, you’ll encounter a menagerie of gruesome foes, ranging from skeletal archers and sword-wielding trolls to monstrous kraken and fire-breathing dragons. Each enemy type requires a slightly different approach, encouraging players to experiment with the unique strengths of their chosen Viking.
But Zombie Vikings isn’t just about mindless hack-and-slash mayhem; there’s a surprising amount of depth and cleverness hidden beneath its gory exterior.
| Viking | Ability | Weapon |
|---|---|---|
| Gunnie | Explosives Expert | Shotgun, Grenades |
| Siv | Agile Warrior | Dual Daggers, Throwing Knives |
| Olaf | Powerful Bruiser | War Hammer, Axe Throw |
| Baerd | Berserker Rage | Giant Axe |
For example, the game incorporates environmental puzzles that require players to use their Viking’s abilities in creative ways.
- Need to cross a chasm? Gunnie can blast herself across with her trusty shotgun.
- Want to reach a hidden platform? Siv’s nimble agility lets her scale walls and swing from ropes.
These puzzles add a welcome layer of challenge and encourage players to think strategically about their approach. Moreover, the game features a delightful co-op mode that allows up to four players to join forces in Viking mayhem. Teamwork is crucial as you coordinate attacks, revive fallen comrades, and navigate challenging platforming sections together.
What truly elevates Zombie Vikings above its peers is its infectious humor and unique art style. The visuals are reminiscent of classic arcade games, with vibrant colors, chunky sprites, and a delightful sense of cartoonish grotesqueness. The soundtrack perfectly complements the action, blending epic orchestral themes with upbeat Nordic folk music.
And let’s not forget the writing! The dialogue is filled with witty banter, groan-worthy puns, and laugh-out-loud moments that make every playthrough a hilariously entertaining experience.
Zombie Vikings is more than just a platformer; it’s a celebration of everything wonderfully ridiculous about video games. With its addictive gameplay, quirky characters, and endlessly quotable dialogue, it’s sure to satisfy any craving for old-school arcade action with a modern twist. So gather your Viking horde, sharpen your axes, and prepare for a gloriously gory adventure through the world of Norse mythology!