Valheim immerses players in the captivating narratives of Norse mythology and Scandinavian folklore. Nevertheless, there are numerous creatures that have yet to be included in Valheim's bestiary, presenting exciting possibilities.
The 2021 release of Valheim has already garnered tremendous attention despite being in early access. One of the reasons for its acclaim is its integration of Norse mythology and broader Scandinavian folklore, a theme that will be further developed in Valheim's upcoming Ashlands update. This integration encompasses various aspects of Norse mythology, such as sea serpents and the Norse pantheon, as well as contemporary Scandinavian references—examples include the resemblance of the various greydwarf enemies to the gray dwarves from the 1981 book Ronja rovardotter. With such diversity, there is a wealth of fascinating folklore and mythology that would seamlessly complement Valheim.
5 Norse Creatures That Would Seamlessly Integrate into Valheim
Dokkalfar (Dark Elves) and Ljosalfar (Light Elves)
Given Valheim's extensive use of Norse myth, the absence of elves is quite unexpected. References to elves in Norse myth can be found in the Prose Edda, one of the most significant surviving sources on Norse mythology (along with the Poetic EddaHrafnagaldr Odins. The poem intertwines dwarves and elves in Norse myth, where a character named Dainn could be interpreted as an elf or a dwarf. This interconnection is also evident in the two aforementioned collections, where the subterranean dokkalfar (dark elves) are speculated to be synonymous with svartalfar (black elves), who themselves could be synonymous with dwarves. Whether they take the form of underground dokkalfar or light-elf ljosalfar, these creatures could serve as intriguing NPCs.
Fossegrim
Among the adversaries encountered by Valheim novices, the neck poses minimal threat. This creature draws inspiration from the Swedish nack, which is linked to other Germanic water spirits. One such spirit is Fossegrim, a water spirit or troll known for its exceptional fiddling skills. Unlike the diminutive lizards familiar to Valheim players, Fossegrim is often depicted as a human male, playing the fiddle in a river or beneath a small waterfall. According to folklore, humans can strike a pact with Fossegrim, offering scheduled food in exchange for unparalleled musical abilities. The music of Fossegrim and those in league with it is said to enchant even the trees, inducing them to dance. Hence, forming a pact with this water spirit could prove highly advantageous for Valheim players.
Nidhoggr and Ratatoskr
Upon entering a new realm in the tenth world, players are greeted by a sky adorned with roots. These roots belong to Yggdrasil, the World Tree, from which players can harvest Yggdrasil wood in Valheim. Both the Prose Edda and Poetic Edda mention a creature gnawing on these roots. According to the poem Grimnismal, the serpent Nidhoggr is situated 'far beneath' Yggdrasil. While it is typically kept in check by the eagle Vedrflnir at the apex of the World Tree, should Nidhoggr become uncontrollable, the player would be best positioned to rein it in.
While Vedrfolnir remains secluded in the canopy of Yggdrasil, the horned squirrel Ratatoskr delivers messages between the eagle and Nidhoggr. Some accounts suggest that Ratatoskr intentionally provokes discord between the two, maintaining the equilibrium between renewal and decay. If players are to confront Nidhoggr among the serpents they encounter in Valheim, it would be fitting for this mischievous rodent to also feature as an NPC.
Following the release of Valheim's Ashlands update, these creatures would make valuable additions to the game's bestiary. They would not only introduce new NPCs and adversaries but also augment the game's blend of myth and folklore.