Hello Shield Maidens and Warriors,
The image of a tattooed Viking has become a staple of modern popular culture from TV shows to movies to games. And not only dedicated tattoo fans are fascinated with the powerful symbols and intricate designs. While the historical meaning and even certainty of widespread tattooing among the Norse people is heavily debated in academic circles, the symbolic meaning of those designs is deeply rooted in verified Viking culture.
One thing is for sure: If Vikings were tattooed, the ink would be way more than just decoration. It would be potentially a sign of protection (and as such similar to a rune engraved into a weapon), a story of their social status or even a connection to the gods.
Primarily, the tattoos would have functioned as talismans of protection and a divine favor. In a world filled with giants and unpredictable forces, symbols and runes acted as a form of invocation.
Imagine a tattoo of Mjölnir, for example. It would not only represent dedication to Thor, but also serve as a plea for strength and protection in battle or a safeguard amidst the unforeseeable forces of chaos.
The Valknut was a symbol of the afterlife and the slain and could mark the bearer’s readiness for Valhalla.
Tattoos like these would not only represent a way to carry the power of the gods into every struggle, every fight, and every adventure. They would also mark a narrative map of a Viking’s identity and his or her accomplishments. Don’t forget that Viking society is built on stories. Tales of great and dangerous voyages, heroic deeds, ancestral lineage and fierce battles.
The interlocking nots of the Helm of Awe (Œgishjalmr) or the chaotic weave of the Web of Wyrd, which we use in our logo, could be used to tell a story of courage or the Viking’s role in the fabric of the universe. In other words: The ink under the skin would tell as much of a story as the scars. Nowadays it would be seen as a public declaration of who someone is and what they have achieved, a permanent record of a life lived with purpose. But take all this with a pinch of salt and as content, where we leverage our creative freedom to give you a richer gaming experience - since all talk about tattoos in Viking culture is highly hypothetical, as we mentioned in the beginning.
Which is why in our powerful character creator we will give you the chance to give your hero or heroine a wide variety of tattoos to customize your virtual alter ego in the world of Vikings Dynasty. This is one of the very few elements in the game where we deviate quite a bit from the historical truth and step over into the area of creative freedom. Because for us it is also important that you can establish your own Viking adventures. Our plans are to extend the selection, so your player character can show off the marks of their personal journey through the Steineyjar archipelago.
We can’t wait to show you more in the future.
Skål,
Digital Daredevils and Toplitz Productions
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2753930/Vikings_Dynasty/
