By Gary Symons
TLL Editor in Chief
MGM and NetEase Games have launched the first crossover event between the mobile game Vikingard and the hit series Vikings.
The partners say the integration will feature content and themed events related to season 1 of the Vikings, allowing players to experience the journey of central character Ragnar Lothbrok.
“The Vikings franchise has exploded in popularity around the world, and we look forward to bringing our dedicated fans a new and exciting way to experience epic Vikings adventures with this series of Vikingard in-game integrations,” said Robert Marick, Executive Vice President of Global Consumer Products and Experiences at MGM.
Both Vikings and Vikingard have enjoyed immense global popularity, and the companies expect this crossover will be among the biggest gaming events of the year.
“Those who have dreamed of fighting alongside heroes from the Vikings universe will finally have the chance through a series of special in-game integrations that will combine Vikings with Vikingard,” they said in a statement.
The first integration into the game will allow players to recruit and fight alongside Vikings characters Lagertha, Rollo, Floki, and of course the main protagonist Ragnar.
When the first in-game integration is complete, NetEase says these four characters will accompany players on their quests to seize new territories and to attack cities and towns. As well, players will be able to join Ragnar and advise the Viking leader on his path to become King. Alternatively, they can invite Ragnar and his followers to visit their own tribes and get insights into their own quests, and by befriending the Vikings characters, Vikingard players will also earn exclusive rewards.
“We’re excited to partner with the Vikings franchise, who undoubtedly influenced and inspired many viewers,” said Ethan Wang, Senior Vice President of NetEase Inc. “We believe this collaboration will be a perfect match and it will bring enjoyment and surprises to both our users and Vikings fans.”
Wang also confirmed this will not be the only collaboration between the two franchises. He says there will be more Viking-themed crossovers in the near future in the form of limited-time campaigns that will further expand players’ interactions with the world and characters of Vikings.