Tripwire Presents and developer Arctic Hazard have announced the official release date for NORSE: Oath of Blood, a tactical turn-based RPG set deep in the Viking Age. The playable historical epic is set to launch on February 3, 2026 for PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, as well as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Alongside the announcement, the team has released its first video Developer Diary, offering fans an intimate behind-the-scenes look at how this ambitious tale of vengeance and survival is being brought to life.
A Developer Diary Revealing Authentic Viking Storytelling
In the newly released Developer Diary, members of Arctic Hazard—including actors and writer Giles Kristian—discuss the creative process behind crafting the world of NORSE: Oath of Blood. The team highlights their focus on historical authenticity, realistic motion capture, and the emotional foundations of Gunnar’s journey.
From storytelling grounded in real Viking culture to capturing lifelike movement for combat and exploration, the diary provides a rare glimpse into how the developers are shaping a gritty, immersive experience rooted in old Norse tradition.
Experience Dark Age Norway in a Tactical Viking Saga
NORSE: Oath of Blood invites players to step into the rugged wilds of dark age Norway, a land defined by its harsh beauty and unforgiving conflict. The story follows Gunnar, a young warrior driven by loss and fury after the treacherous Steinarr Far-Spear murders his father, Jarl Gripr, and seizes power.
With everything taken from him, Gunnar must rebuild his settlement, unite scattered allies, and forge a fearsome warband capable of reclaiming his rightful place. Every choice carries consequences, shaping alliances, rivalries, and the world around him.
Tactical Turn-Based Battles Forged in Blood
At the heart of NORSE: Oath of Blood is a deep tactical combat system that challenges players to think strategically as they battle rival clans and powerful enemies. Each skirmish demands careful positioning, smart resource management, and a keen understanding of squad abilities.
Building and training Gunnar’s warband becomes essential as players strengthen their forces and prepare for ever-more formidable challenges across Norway’s perilous landscape.
Settlement Building, Strategy, and Viking Survival
Beyond battle, players will craft and grow a thriving settlement, gathering resources, constructing vital structures, and recruiting valuable companions. The settlement serves as the lifeline of Gunnar’s rising power, expanding opportunities for diplomacy, trade, and the development of new tactical advantages.
With a world rich in danger and opportunity, players must balance survival, growth, and revenge in equal measure.
Stay Connected With the NORSE Community
Find out more about NORSE: Oath of Blood on the game’s official website, and follow the game on X, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, and Discord. This game has not been rated for PC, and expects a rating of 17+ on consoles by the ESRB and 18+ PEGI.
To learn more about Arctic Hazard visit their official website, and follow them on X, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
For more information about Tripwire Interactive visit their official website and follow them on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
