For the last few days, Valheim players have spied a strange, robed figure lurking in the distance, someone they can't get near, someone that many are beginning to theorize may actually be the Allfather himself, Odin. Valheim hit the ground running earlier this month, arriving on Steam Early Access on February 2 to glowing reception.
The co-op Viking survival title from developer Iron Gate AB boasts a procedurally-generated world, where 1 to 10 players can team up in a PvE experience to battle against the odds. Those odds include crafting to survive, braving the elements, and defeating all manner of monsters. It's not yet clear how long Valheim's Early Access period will last, but Iron Gate AB promises to continue supporting the game for months to come.
As reported by PC Gamer, a number of Valheim players have spotted a mysterious figure in the game world. Apparently, the strange character dons a hood or cloak, and is equipped with a staff. Reddit user Miss_Valkia describes an instance where their co-op partner spied what looked like Obi Wan from Star Wars; the Redditor said they then saw the figure for themselves a day or so later while exploring the swamp area. Others have assumed the unknown presence may be that of the Grim Reaper or a specter, since it vanishes when players get too close or try to attack it from a distance. However, the prevailing theory suggests the shadowy being is Odin, with some players having noticed that a close enough look reveals a single glowing eye - a trait that's even been explored in the MCU.
The Odin theory doesn't seem too farfetched, especially based on the descriptions given and the little that's been seen of the mysterious figure. Most notably known as the King of Asgard and Thor's father, Odin's magical abilities could explain the disappearing act of the shadowy being in Valheim. His role as a protector of heroes in Valhalla helps to further support the theory, given that players assume the role of battle-slain warriors. Of course, the single eye, the other of which the mythological Odin traded in for wisdom, serves as yet another compelling bit of evidence. It's just a theory for now, however; Iron Gate AB has yet to offer any official insight on the matter.
Vikings and norse mythology have been all the rage in the last several years. The lore has taken over television, and continues to gain popularity in gaming thanks to the likes of God of War (2018) and Assassin's Creed Valhalla. Fortunately, all of these stories tackle the lore in inventive ways and from different angles. Thus far, Valheim has managed to carve out its own place with the mythology, as well.
Valheim is available to play now in Steam Early Access.
Source: Miss_Valkia, PC Gamer