AC Valhalla: Wrath of the Druids

PLAYED ON: Xbox One S

(Game screenshots also taken on the same console)

After 6 months of AC: Valhalla, the 1st DLC of the game is here and it continues Eivor’s journey to Ireland.

Designed to be played at any point of your Viking adventure, you are introduced to an unmentioned cousin Barid, who is now the King of Dublin and needs your help. Azar, a trader, comes looking for Hytham and Eivor to Ravensthorpe. After helping him out with his trade ship and a trading post, you can begin your journey to Ireland.

The beauty of Ireland stands out in Assassin's Creed Valhalla. There may be similar moments to England, but the feeling of roaming around the hills of Ireland is just breathtaking. With its druidic ruins, extremely green colour palette, and gorgeous purple sunsets, Ireland certainly has its own look. The weather, too, makes a surprisingly big difference; light rainfall gives the adventure a sombre feel, and there are even dynamic rainbows to admire!

Druids' major addition is its trade system, which hooks into a network of ring forts you'll capture and turn into upgradable, resource-building nodes. It's just the same mechanics as the settlement in England. You raid places, you earn 'trade goods' and that helps you upgrade. This time around, you'll have to go on exploring a lot but don't worry Ireland isn't too big.

As for the main campaign, there is another King that needs help in securing his throne (just like England all over again). And there are no Assassin/Templar conflicts, as well as the modern-day storyline, to be found! The story doesn't mention anything about the brotherhood and I did get a little disappointed. But here you'll still need to clear the cult hit list - The Children of Danu, just like you had to do for the Order in England in the main game.

CONCLUSION:

Assassin's Creed Valhalla: Wrath of the Druids is a good, if not great, expansion. In its beautiful open world depiction of Ireland, it provides an intriguing story that combines history and folklore to great effect. A range of new weapons and armour are introduced, while the combat scenarios keep you on your toes. If you're already a fan of Valhalla, you'll enjoy this DLC's adventure too.

TSHC's SCORE: 6.5/10