Griefhelm is a side-scrolling medieval combat game. It features brutal combat using swords, spears, axes, and other medieval weapons. The game features a short single-player campaign, but the real heart of the experience is multiplayer combat. Up to four players can participate in either local or online matches.

The side-scrolling combat of Griefhelm is similar to other fencing action games such as Nidhogg, whereas Nidhogg features simple retro graphics. However, Griefhelm evokes a medieval atmosphere with detailed locations, weapons, and armor. In this respect, and in its brutal violence, it's similar to medieval combat games like Mordhau.

A party game about savage combat

Griefhelm's combat system is simple but challenging. Players and AI opponents can attack or defend in low, medium, or high stances. Moving into a stance without attacking will parry an attack coming in the same position. Victory requires recognizing incoming attacks and being prepared to parry and strike back. Weapons add complications with different reaches and speeds.

Although Griefhelm does feature a single-player campaign, it's quite short and works more like a tutorial than a campaign. Replaying it focusing on different challenges is a good way to sharpen your sword skills, but the main appeal of the game is the multiplayer combat mode.

Simple, bloody fun

Griefhelm is at its best in multiplayer mode, where matches can turn into tense duels or bloody slugfests. The campaign is enjoyable but not long enough to merit the investment on its own.

Playing against human opponents adds to the psychological element of a fighting game, where knowing your opponent's mind is the key to winning the game. Mastering the game system can be challenging, but if you're willing to do the work or just want to see some heads bashed, Griefhelm is savage fun.