Norhold: Origins is a free strategy game coming from developer StunForge. It is a fantasy tower defense title that takes inspiration from Norse mythology for its themes and story. In it, players are tasked with building a small village and defending it from various external threats to ensure its safety. 

Similar to games like Dorfromantik or Rogue Tower, Norhold: Origins features minimalistic graphics and visuals to contrast its vibrant colors and effects. There are multiple structures for players to build and expand their village, and unique upgradable towers to defend it from all sorts of attacks. 

Build and defend 

Norhold: Origins is essentially a cross between tower defense and city-building experience. Set during medieval Nordic times, you will be tasked with establishing a village with a small piece of land. There are 14 buildings that provide diverse building opportunities. Some will serve as the foundation to help with the growth of your economy while others will provide support during battles. 

Speaking of battles, your village will have to deal with attacks from outside forces and this is where the tower defense aspect of the game comes in. There are five tower types to assign across the field and each one can be tweaked with over 80 custom upgrades, allowing for diverse builds and combinations. Call upon the help of legendary heroes to turn the tide of battle. 

What's more, the game offers relics that grant special perks to your village and towers, as well as magic spells that you can use for unique effects on the battlefield. Now, know this is a prologue or preview for the full Norhold game. If you like it and want more, you'll have to wait a while longer. As of this writing, it won't be out until Q1 2025. 

Promising and compelling 

All in all, Norhold: Origins offers an interesting preview and shows a lot of promise with its combination of tactical tower defense and strategic city-building gameplay. The Norse theme is also interesting and ties the whole experience quite nicely. Suffice it to say, this a game you should give it a try and see for yourself. Keep it on your radar for future news and updates.