It has only been a few days since Iron Gate Studios’ Valheim released for Early Access, but players have been busy uncovering all the game has to offer. With Valheim being Steam’s top-selling game this week, many players are now wondering if the game will be released on any consoles, whether PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch.
Valheim is the newest game in the survival genre, and features heavy Viking and Nordic inspiration. Iron Gate Studios, the indie Sweden-based developers, wanted to create a unique looking game by merging low-resolution graphics with modern game techniques. Players are able to explore a procedurally-generated purgatory while crafting, sailing, battling enemies, and building new things along the way.
According to the FAQ page on Valheim’s website, there are “no plans to release on other platforms” at the moment, such as the PS5 or Xbox Series X. However, Iron Gate also said it wouldn’t rule out making versions for consoles. In the same response it said a Mac-version could be released if there was significant demand for it, so it’s probable that Iron Gate is taking the same approach when it comes to consoles.
Thankfully, if Iron Gate wanted to bring Valheim to consoles, the odds are in its favor. Valheim has some low technical requirements, and takes up about 1GB of space, so the game likely wouldn’t strain console hardware, even on the Nintendo Switch. Plus, the game’s publisher, Coffee Stain Publishing, already has experience bringing games to consoles. The publisher's Goat Simulator and Sanctum 2 were released on consoles, such at the PS3, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
The survival genre of games has a big fanbase, and often these titles will be ported to consoles to reach a larger audience. Subnautica has sold millions of copies and is on multiple platforms, but started as a PC-only release. The ever-popular Rust will also make its way to the PS4 and Xbox One, although it’s unknown when or if it will come to PS5 and Xbox Series X. So, there is definitely a player base that would be interested in Valheim if it were to come to consoles.
The game is still in Early Access, so any console plans are probably on the back burner until the game officially launches. Until then, Steam players will be able to enjoy plenty of new upcoming content, try to stave off the freezing cold, and just live out a Viking-inspired fantasy. Those who are interested in a console release should make sure to encourage the developers so they know the interest is there.
Valheim is available now in Early Access on PC.
Source: Valheim