The Vikings had all kinds of cool cultural traditions, from democratic councils and formal dueling rituals to one of the earliest forms of what we now call rap battles: miting. The Vikings' rhyming insult duels are attested to in both historical records, mythology, and semi-historical accounts such as the Icelandic "sagas." For example, between the gods Odin and Thor, or between Loki and literally every other god. (Like me, you know this custom from the Old English word flite via Beowulf.)

In "Assassin's Creed Valhalla," this rhythmic poetry is flitted between the protagonist Avor and the other warriors. It is a kind of bragging contest, with the warriors often sitting around a mead hall table, playfully insulting each other to the rhythm. Ashraf Alsmire, creative director of Assassin's Creed Valhalla, gave us the details:

So, everyone, brush up on your rhyming and poetic license. I'm going to win the Sea Raider rap battle. I'm just hoping for a good fight, because I know I'm not going to win.

Assassin's Creed Valhalla is this year's release in the historical series, set in 9th century England and coming out "Holiday 2020." It deals with the Viking invasion of late antiquity, when peoples from Scandinavia conquered most of the British Isles. The new protagonist, Avor, will have the same RPG gameplay we have come to expect from the last two games in the series; for more information on "Assassin's Creed Valhalla," please see the extensive information on our website.