The Valkyrie series is one of Square Enix’s most unique RPG franchises, blending Norse mythology with deep storytelling and innovative gameplay. Valkyrie Elysium, the latest entry in the saga, reimagines the series with a new action-oriented combat system while keeping the themes of fate, sacrifice, and divine intervention that have defined the franchise. Released in 2022 for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC, the game offers a fresh take on the Valkyrie Profile legacy.
If you’re a longtime fan or just looking for a stylish action RPG with mythological influences, here’s why Valkyrie Elysium deserves your attention!
A New Dawn for the Valkyrie Series
The story takes place in a dying world on the brink of Ragnarök, the prophesied end of days in Norse mythology. Odin, the All-Father, has been gravely injured after a devastating war with Fenrir, the great wolf of fate. In a last attempt to prevent total destruction, Odin creates a new Valkyrie—a divine warrior tasked with purging the world of corrupted souls and restoring balance.
Players take control of this nameless Valkyrie, a stoic yet determined warrior who carries out Odin’s will. As she descends to Midgard, she encounters not only lost souls and monstrous beings but also remnants of human emotions, memories, and conflicts that challenge her divine purpose.
As the story unfolds, questions arise:
- Is Odin truly guiding her toward salvation, or is there another fate awaiting her?
- What secrets lie within the fallen world of Midgard?
- Can a divine warrior possess free will?
The narrative builds upon the philosophical and emotional depth that the series is known for, culminating in multiple endings that reflect the Valkyrie’s choices and understanding of her purpose.
Fast-Paced Action Combat Like Never Before
Unlike previous games in the series, Valkyrie Elysium shifts away from turn-based mechanics in favor of fluid, real-time action combat. The gameplay takes inspiration from modern action RPGs, offering stylish combos, fast-paced dodging, and a variety of abilities.
Key Combat Features:
- Divine Arts – Special magical attacks that allow the Valkyrie to unleash devastating elemental strikes.
- Soul Chain – A grappling mechanic that lets her quickly close the distance on enemies or navigate vertical environments.
- Summonable Einherjar – Ghostly warriors who fight alongside her, adding extra strategy to battles.
- Weapon-Based Combat – Different weapons offer unique movesets, allowing for customization based on playstyle.
The combat system is easy to pick up but offers depth, encouraging players to master timing, elemental weaknesses, and combos for stylish and efficient takedowns.
The Einherjar – Souls Bound to the Valkyrie
One of the core aspects of the Valkyrie series is the ability to recruit Einherjar—fallen warriors whose souls are bound to serve the Valkyrie. In Valkyrie Elysium, these spectral allies play a major role both in combat and storytelling.
The Four Main Einherjar:
- Eygon – A proud knight wielding a massive greatsword. He once served a noble cause but now fights as a lost soul.
- Kristoffer – A swift and deadly spear-wielding warrior with a sharp tongue and unwavering resolve.
- Taika – A powerful mage who harnesses fire magic, her past shrouded in mystery.
- Armand – A mysterious wanderer who is neither truly friend nor foe, playing a key role in the Valkyrie’s journey.
Each Einherjar brings their own elemental affinity and abilities, making them essential for both combat and puzzle-solving. Their backstories and personalities unfold as the game progresses, adding layers of emotional depth to the journey.
The Multiple Endings – A Matter of Choice and Fate
Like its predecessors, Valkyrie Elysium features multiple endings based on the player’s choices and level of understanding of the Valkyrie’s true purpose. The endings range from a path of blind loyalty to Odin’s mission to one where the Valkyrie discovers a deeper truth about herself and the world.
The Three Main Endings:
- Ending A – The Valkyrie remains faithful to Odin, fulfilling her mission at a great cost.
- Ending B – She begins to question her purpose, leading to a confrontation that changes the balance of power.
- Ending C – The Valkyrie forges her own path, rejecting destiny and uncovering the ultimate truth.
These endings encourage players to explore different story branches, adding replayability and philosophical depth to the experience.
How Does It Compare to Previous Valkyrie Games?
While Valkyrie Elysium shifts from turn-based battles to action gameplay, it still retains many hallmarks of the series:
- Norse Mythology Themes – Gods, warriors, and the concept of fate remain central.
- Einherjar System – Recruiting and summoning spirits in battle.
- Multiple Endings – The player’s choices affect the outcome.
However, it differs from previous titles by:
- Introducing a real-time action combat system instead of turn-based battles.
- Featuring an open-ended level structure rather than a chapter-based progression.
- Focusing on one main playable character instead of a rotating party system.
For longtime fans, Valkyrie Elysium is a bold reinvention of the series, and for newcomers, it serves as an accessible entry point to the Valkyrie universe.
Why You Should Play Valkyrie Elysium Today
- A Fresh Take on the Valkyrie Series – Even if you’re new to the franchise, Valkyrie Elysium is a great standalone experience.
- Fast and Fluid Combat – Action RPG fans will love the responsive controls and stylish battles.
- A Thought-Provoking Story – The game explores themes of fate, free will, and divine duty.
- Multiple Endings and Replayability – Your choices determine the Valkyrie’s ultimate fate.
- A Beautifully Crafted World – Norse mythology, haunting landscapes, and epic battles create an unforgettable atmosphere.
While Valkyrie Elysium may not follow the exact formula of its predecessors, it offers a compelling new vision of the franchise. Whether you’re here for the high-speed combat, the deep storytelling, or the mythological setting, this game delivers a unique and rewarding RPG experience.
Will you embrace your divine mission, or carve your own path? The fate of Midgard is in your hands!
