Those valkyries must be getting pretty tired
One of gaming’s most recent success stories is that of open-world crafting adventure Valheim. Despite existing within an undeniably overcrowded market, Iron Gate Studios’ viking themed sandbox title has won over a huge conglomerate of fans, all of whom have journeyed to Valheim to carve out a home and habitat for themselves, borne against the backdrop of Nordic lore.
The Swedish developer has announced that over five million players have logged into the title since it released on Steam Early Access a mere month ago. This community, enough to fill many a longboat, have reportedly been active in Valheim for a combined 15,000 years, have watched over 35 million hours of in-game footage on Twitch, and have solidified the title as the 39th “Best Reviewed” game in Steam history.
The fact Valheim has been such a success is further validated by the fact Iron Gate Studios consists of only five employees, who eventually found publishing for their passion project via Coffee Stain – renown for its support of all things indie. Like many crafting games, Valheim starts each player out with very little in the way of tools and resources, before tasking them with building a home and sustainable (after)life for themselves within its paradise of slain warriors.
“We watch with pride and excitement, and struggle to find the right words to express our gratitude to you, the community,” said Iron Gate of Valheim’s immediate success. “Exciting new milestones lie ahead, and we for one cannot wait to show you more of the game as we journey through our 2021 Roadmap… May Frey bless you with a plentiful harvest, and may Heimdall watch over your settlement.”
“Oh, and if you see an oversized mosquito, run.”