Valheim heats up with new, ultra-deadly biome in Ashlands update

polygon.com:

Valheim is a fantastic sandbox survival game, set in a fantastical 10th realm of the Norse afterlife. Adventurers explore from the peaceful meadows out into more dangerous biomes, and today, the most dangerous one yet is available to explore. The last biome update was the Mistlands; today, players can venture out into the Ashlands.

Of course, that’s much easier said than done, since the Ashlands is a very hostile environment. Vikings will need to build ships strong enough to survive its boiling waters, and things don’t get better upon landfall. Undead known as Charred wander the lands, a fearsome Fallen Valkyrie attacks from the skies, and a beastly creature known as the Morgen hunts prey, along with other enemies.

Luckily, new enemies means new loot, which can be turned into new weapons. Flametal can be crafted into a new greatsword, spear, and crossbow, and further enhanced with jade, bloodstone, and isoite gems. Building outposts in the Ashlands is meant to feel like a constant struggle, and the Charred control the territory from fortresses. Luckily, players can now craft siege weaponry. Catapults and battering rams allow players to attack fortresses directly, expanding their reach over the new biome.

“Ashlands is supposed to feel like a struggle, and players should expect a challenge. Every inch of territory you claim has to be earned, and every outpost has to be reinforced before you venture deeper. We’re entering endgame territory here, and players need to be ready for what comes in the Deep North,” said Andreas Tomasson,Valheim producer, in a press release.

Valheim is available on PC, and is still in early access. The Viking survival game had a huge launch in 2021, thanks to developer Iron Gate’s ability to craft a compelling range of experiences across the biomes, from cozy and comfortable to striving for survival. The game has remained relevant through to 2024,attracting an audience of survival game fans. The Mistlands update expanded the game with a