TheGamer showcases games that broke away from protagonist-focused storytelling, highlighting Northgard: Definitive Edition, the Viking strategy game with more than 2.4 million copies sold from developer Shiro Games, out now on PC and Mac via Steam.
In most video games, you step into the shoes of a mighty hero, the one destined to save the world and defeat an all-powerful evil.
However, some games take a different approach, subverting this familiar dynamic. These games place you in an important supporting role rather than casting you as the story’s focal point. While your contributions are crucial, the narrative isn’t necessarily about you. Instead, it unfolds around other characters, with you acting as a facilitator, strategist, or guide who helps drive their journeys forward.
Northgard is a strategy game steeped in Norse mythology, blending resource management and tactical combat with a rich narrative. The first arc of Story Mode, Rig’s Saga, chronicles the journey of Rig, a deposed king seeking to avenge his father’s death and reclaim his rightful place. While Rig is the central figure in the story, he doesn’t become a playable character until after his story arc ends.
Claim territory in the new Valhalla biome, and engage in both PvE and PvP games in the Bifrost biomes. Enjoy enhancements to the base game, including a significant overhaul of the shop with new items to browse, graphical improvements for select units, a beautiful digital artbook, an in-game gallery featuring concept art, alternate artworks, alpha and beta visuals, and much more.
Dive into content from several freshly incorporated DLC expansions, including the full campaign from the Cross of Vidar expansion pack. Enter the fray with mighty clans including Neustria – Clan of the Lion, as well as the first three clans ever released for Northgard: Sváfnir – Clan of the Snake, Nidhogg – Clan of the Dragon, and Svardilfari – Clan of the Horse.
Check out the full list here. Northgard: Definitive Edition is available now on PC and Mac via Steam. For more information about Northgard, please visit the official website.
