Norse mythology and Viking-era history is finally coming with Assassin's Creed Valhalla as one of the most requested time periods for the franchise. Even though the reveal may not have been as surprising considering the many leaks, but the trailer did have one surprise up its sleeve. During the trailer's main battle, the protagonist looks back to see the spirit of Odin behind them on the battlefield.
Obviously Odin, as the prime deity of Norse mythology, is going to be very prominent in an adventure themed entirely on Vikings. The Assassin's Creed has never been one to shy away from the inclusion of gods from myth and gospel, and Assassin's Creed Valhalla appears to be no different. Odin's purpose in the upcoming game may be even more central to the story than in previous entries in a very functional way. Whether its in corporeal or ethereal form, here's how Odin will likely factor into Eivor's story.
Odin's Mythological Importance
Historically he's been known by many names varying between several Germanic tribes across centuries, Odin was widely considered the cornerstone of all of Germanic Mythology. Though much of historical record referencing Odin is based on Norse mythology specifically, his religious image served as an icon for all of early Northern European tribes. Odin is known as the primary god of many things: war, magic, wisdom, health, death, poetry and royalty. Odin is referred by almost all Germanic tribes unanimously as the "Allfather," leader of all divine beings in Germanic mythology with many descended gods and humans related to him.
Odin's image and existence was prolific throughout northern Europe, which is exactly why he'll be so prominent in Assassin's Creed Valhalla. Vikings worshipped Odin as one of their main deities, who gifted them strength not only in battle but through their daily lives. Despite their polytheism, Odin was named "Allfather" as he was considered the divine ancestor of all life who's spirit existed in all living things. This is why there's imagery in the Valhalla trailer depicting a hooded man on the battlefield, who mysteriously disappears or changes to the iconic eagle symbol of the Assassin's Creed series.
Eivor's Ally
That same eagle (which is actually a raven, according to Norse mythology) could be representative of an even stronger tie to the Isu, The Ones Who Came Before, or just Norse gods in general. Assuming Valhalla follows in the footsteps of Assassin's Creed Odyssey and utilizes the raven as a companion, it may be more than just a pet this time. The reveal trailer insinuates that the raven represents Odin, and that he blesses Eivor and the Vikings on that battlefield.
In Norse mythology, Odin had two crows that he sent across Midgard to gather information. Odin may be closer to the protagonist of Valhalla than it initially seems, potentially serving as his guide directly. Through the veil of a crow companion, Odin may be the first time an Isu/Isu-like ally fights alongside the player practically directly.
Granted the series has never shied away from direct contact with the Isu before. Assassin's Creed Odyssey had an entire Fate of Atlantis DLC all about Greek Isu gods, with Kassandra/Alexios wielding and powering up a literal Piece of Eden. It wouldn't be a stretch at this point to assume Odin will likely come into direct contact with Eivor through the use of the raven.
Odin in Germanic mythology was known to be a universal god among all living things, so taking command of an raven to aid Eivor in his quest shouldn't be too difficult for him. His shrouded figure appearance from the trailer also aligns with his most commonly known disguise as an elderly commoner amongst humans.
It's possible Eivor's statement was not to be taken literally, and could've just been made to boost morale amongst his fellow raiders. Narrative director for Valhalla, Darby McDevitt, has stated that the mythological/fantasy aspects of the game will be toned down compared to Odyssey and Origins. Odin may not have actually been there and that Eivor's mind was playing tricks on him. Even if he did really see Odin there on the battlefield, Isu have consistently taken on ethereal forms to communicate with humans throughout Assassin's Creed.
Odin can also be witnessed towards the beginning of the trailer in the form of a statue within the Vikings' settlement, so he's not limited to magical cameos. Odin makes it clear he doesn't have to directly communicate with the player to make his presence known throughout Valhalla's world. Even if Odin doesn't serve alongside Eivor as the raven directly, he'll almost certainly still serve as an omniscient observer of Eivor's quest.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla is coming to PC, PS4, PS5, Stadia, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.