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Jotun

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Jotun
Item: Jotun
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Artistic, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableSep 29, 2015

PlatformNintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC

DeveloperThunder Lotus Games

Overview

Jotun is a hand-drawn action-exploration game set in Norse mythology. In Jotun, you play Thora, a Norse warrior who has died an inglorious death and must prove herself to the Gods to enter Valhalla.

Elsewhere

6.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Jotun dazzles with immersive Norse mythology and atmospheric storytelling, but its shallow characters and fragmented narrative undermine its mythic potential—a stunning visual feast for lore lovers, yet a story that feels more like a backdrop than a journey.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The reviews of Jotun highlight several positive aspects of its narrative, particularly its immersive use of Norse mythology and atmospheric storytelling. Many critics praise the game’s ability to weave mythological elements into its world-building, creating a rich, evocative setting. For instance, GameSpot (on Nintendo Switch) describes the story as a “wonderfully wild, vibrant bedtime story” with emotional depth, while COGconnected and Eurogamer Italy commend the Icelandic voice-acting and environmental storytelling that enhance Thora’s journey. The game’s focus on Thora’s quest to prove herself in Valhalla is often noted for its thematic resonance, with IGN Spain emphasizing its connection to mythological concepts like Yggdrasil and Niflheim. Additionally, GameSpace and Nintendo Insider appreciate the concise yet effective narrative structure, which prioritizes exploration and mythic themes over complex character development. These elements collectively create a compelling backdrop that appeals to fans of Nordic lore. However, several critics argue that Jotun’s story lacks depth and fails to fully integrate its mythological framework with engaging storytelling. GameStar criticizes the narrative for being “lacking depth and effective storytelling,” with fragmented myths and unengaging character arcs. Similarly, GameCritics points out an “ambiguous ultimate goal” and a “shaky grasp of Norse mythology,” while DarkStation and Switch Player note that the disjointed storytelling undermines its impact. The game’s focus on gameplay mechanics over narrative cohesion is another recurring critique; Multiplayer.it describes the story as “underdeveloped,” with exploration overshadowing plot complexity. Even IGN Denmark acknowledges Thora’s death as “unremarkable” compared to traditional Norse heroic narratives, and GamePro Germany highlights that the game treats her as a “player proxy” rather than a fully realized character. These criticisms suggest that while the game’s mythological foundation is strong, its execution falls short in delivering a cohesive or emotionally resonant story. Overall, the critics present a mixed but largely balanced view of Jotun’s narrative. While many appreciate its atmospheric storytelling and mythological authenticity—GameSpot, COGconnected, and Eurogamer Italy all commend its cultural and thematic depth—the game’s lack of character development and narrative polish is a consistent drawback. The consensus seems to lean toward acknowledging Jotun as an effective introduction to Norse mythology, even if it prioritizes gameplay over storytelling. GameOver.gr and GameCrate note that the story serves as a “vehicle for exploring lore,” while Ragequit.gr praises its rich cultural references. However, the majority of reviewers agree that the narrative could have been more immersive or emotionally engaging. Despite these shortcomings, Jotun is generally seen as a worthwhile experience for players drawn to its mythological themes and atmospheric design, even if it doesn’t fully realize its narrative potential.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Boss fights shine with creative challenge and unique mechanics, but repetitive traversal, shallow combat, and uneven pacing drag down an otherwise polarizing experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

84%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Jotun: Valhalla Edition receives praise for its challenging and creatively designed boss fights, which are frequently highlighted as the game’s standout feature. Critics like Game Revolution and Vandal commend the difficulty and variety of these encounters, noting that they require pattern memorization, strategic thinking, and precise execution. The inclusion of unique mechanics—such as GamingTrend’s mention of God Powers and Ithunn’s Apples, or SpazioGames’ emphasis on tactical depth—adds layers to the combat, while Valhalla mode (noted by GameCritics and God is a Geek) offers replayability through boss rush formats. Additionally, the non-linear progression system, where players can tackle levels in any order (Game Debate, Brash Games), provides flexibility and a sense of exploration, even if the environments themselves are criticized for being underdeveloped. However, the gameplay faces significant criticism for its repetitive and unengaging traversal mechanics. Multiple reviewers, including GameCritics (PS4) and GamingTrend (XBOX ONE), describe the open-world exploration as simplistic, with sparse encounters and a lack of meaningful content beyond basic puzzles and environmental hazards. The combat system is similarly criticized for its shallowness: Hardcore Gamer and IGN Spain note limited movement options, predictable boss patterns, and a reliance on luck rather than skill. While some praise the simplicity of mechanics (Attack of the Fanboy, Destructoid), others like Multiplayer.it argue that the lack of complexity and uneven pacing between combat and traversal detract from the experience. The repetitive nature of puzzles and the absence of dynamic interactions further amplify these issues, as highlighted by 3DJuegos and Eurogamer Italy. Overall, the critics’ consensus leans toward a mixed reception, with the boss fights serving as a strong redeeming quality despite broader flaws. While Game Revolution, Vandal, and SpazioGames celebrate the tactical depth and variety of combat encounters, the repetitive exploration and shallow mechanics are consistently cited as major drawbacks. The game’s design prioritizes challenge and atmosphere over innovation, leading to a polarizing experience where some players appreciate its traditional, skill-based approach (Hobby Consolas, Nintendo Insider), while others find it tedious or unbalanced (GameCritics, Hardcore Gamer). Ultimately, Jotun: Valhalla Edition is seen as a game with promising ideas but hindered by uneven execution, particularly in its traversal and combat systems.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Boss fights shine with creative challenge and unique mechanics, but repetitive traversal, shallow combat, and uneven pacing drag down an otherwise polarizing experience.

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics praised Jotun: Valhalla Edition’s hand-drawn art as a masterful blend of Norse mythology and cinematic charm, with glowing nods to its vibrant visuals, dynamic camera work, and immersive environments—comparable to Princess Mononoke and late '90s Disney. While some noted gameplay clarity issues and underdeveloped spaces, these were minor quibbles in an otherwise lauded aesthetic, cementing the game as a visually stunning, emotionally resonant triumph.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised the hand-drawn art style of Jotun: Valhalla Edition as a standout feature, emphasizing its aesthetic appeal and thematic depth. Reviewers like IGN Spain highlighted the game’s "soberbio" (soaring) visuals, while GameSpot compared its art direction to the blend of Dragon’s Lair and Princess Mononoke, noting grand vistas and immersive environments. The Norse mythology-inspired design was frequently lauded, with Everyeye.it and PlayStation Universe celebrating lush forests, icy landscapes, and ethereal cloudscapes as "visually stunning" and "immersive." Critics such as Brash Games and GameCrate praised the vibrant color palettes, dynamic camera work, and detailed animations, which evoked a cinematic, cartoonish charm reminiscent of classic Disney or Don Bluth films. The unique visual identity, including distinct regional designs and fluid boss fight sequences, was consistently highlighted as a major strength, with IGN Denmark noting that "the art style prioritizes artistic expression over realism" to great effect. Despite these accolades, several critics pointed out flaws in the visual design. GameCritics criticized the hand-drawn style for obscuring gameplay elements, such as hitboxes and excessive camera zooms, which hindered clarity. IGN Italia and Vandal noted perspective issues and a lack of refinement compared to other titles, while Multiplayer.it and Nintendo Insider pointed to underdeveloped environments and minimal interactivity, leading to "hollow" exploration experiences. Some reviewers, like Game Revolution, remarked that level design suffered from empty spaces and repetitive textures, diminishing the appeal of certain areas. Additionally, Eurogamer Italy and CGMagazine mentioned minor technical issues, such as pixelation or camera angles, which occasionally detracted from the otherwise strong visual presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the graphics and visual design regarded as a defining strength of Jotun: Valhalla Edition. While some critiques about gameplay clarity and environmental depth were raised, these were often framed as minor drawbacks in an otherwise lauded aesthetic. IGN, GameSpot, and DarkStation all emphasized the art style’s ability to evoke a rich Norse mythology atmosphere, with ICXM calling it a "masterpiece" reminiscent of late '90s Disney films. The hand-drawn visuals, though not without flaws, were celebrated for their creativity, attention to detail, and emotional impact, solidifying the game’s reputation as a visually striking experience. As GameStar noted, the art direction effectively "conveys the Nordic mythological atmosphere," reflecting a broad critical agreement that the visual design is one of the game’s most compelling aspects.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Jotun: Valhalla Edition’s sound design and music are universally praised as immersive, Nordic-inspired masterpieces—Nordic melodies, Icelandic narration, and dynamic tracks elevate its mythological atmosphere, with critics calling it 'perfect' and 'extraordinary.' While minor gripes about repetition and technical detail surface, the audio remains a towering strength, blending epic tension with haunting beauty to define the game’s Viking soul.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of reviewers praised the sound design and music of Jotun: Valhalla Edition as a standout element that significantly enhances the game’s immersive atmosphere. Critics consistently highlighted the soundtrack’s ability to evoke the game’s mythological and Nordic themes, with App Trigger noting how "Nordic melodies and ambient sounds enhance the atmosphere" and Nintenderos emphasizing the "soft, relaxing melodies during exploration and epic, intense tracks during battles." The use of Icelandic voice acting and narration was frequently cited as a key contributor to authenticity, with Everyeye.it describing it as "solemn and authentic" and Push Square praising the "Icelandic language adds to the grandeur." Additionally, the music’s dynamic adaptation to gameplay—such as 3DJuegos’ mention of "interactive role in gameplay through musical cues for treasure locations" and Game Revolution’s focus on "dramatic" tracks that build tension during battles—underscored its effectiveness in reinforcing the game’s emotional and narrative depth. Many critics, including IGN Spain and GameSpew, lauded the score as exceptional or "extraordinary," with GameSpew specifically calling it a "standout element of the game." While most reviews were overwhelmingly positive, some critics noted minor shortcomings. DarkStation described the sound design as "unremarkable but effective," suggesting it met expectations without exceeding them, while others like CGMagazine and Hobby Consolas mentioned limited details about specific musical compositions or sound effects. A few reviewers, such as Attack of the Fanboy, pointed to occasional repetition in the soundtrack, noting that "it sometimes feels repetitive" despite its strengths during boss battles. Additionally, some critiques focused on the lack of elaboration on technical aspects; for instance, Eurogamer Italy and We Got This Covered mentioned that while the music complemented the atmosphere, they did not delve into specifics about instrumentation or sound design techniques. These criticisms were relatively few compared to the widespread acclaim, indicating that the game’s audio elements largely succeeded in their intended purpose. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with nearly all reviewers agreeing that the sound design and music played a crucial role in elevating Jotun: Valhalla Edition’s atmospheric and mythological experience. The integration of Nordic-inspired melodies, Icelandic narration, and dynamic musical cues was repeatedly highlighted as a key strength, with IGN Spain calling the score "perfect" and GameStar noting its "orchestral-meditative" quality. Even critics who acknowledged minor flaws, such as DarkStation’s "unremarkable" assessment, conceded that the audio elements were effective in enhancing immersion. The game’s ability to balance epic, melancholic tones with functional gameplay support—such as 3DJuegos’ mention of music aiding treasure discovery—demonstrated a cohesive and thoughtful approach to sound design. As a result, the soundtrack and audio design emerged as one of the game’s most praised aspects, contributing significantly to its reputation as a visually and sonically immersive Viking adventure.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics rave about Jotun: Valhalla Edition’s immersive Icelandic/Old Norse voice acting, calling it a pillar of its mythic atmosphere and emotional depth—though some note the script lacks polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Jotun: Valhalla Edition is overwhelmingly praised for its authenticity and immersive quality, with many reviewers highlighting the use of Icelandic as a key strength. Critics like COGconnected and Everyeye.it commend the "fantastic Icelandic voice-acting" and its contribution to the game’s emotional storytelling and epic atmosphere. Eurogamer Italy (PS4) notes that Scandinavian voice lines paired with Italian subtitles enhance cultural authenticity, while IGN Italia describes the "evocativissimo doppiaggio in islandese" (evocative Icelandic voice acting) as a standout feature. Push Square and Twinfinite emphasize how Thora’s narration in Icelandic evokes Old Norse language and mythological themes, adding depth to her character and the game’s narrative. ICXM specifically praises the "authenticity" of male and female narrators, while DarkStation highlights that the game is "completely voiced in Old Norse," reinforcing its Viking-themed immersion. These reviews collectively underscore how the voice acting elevates the game’s mythological tone and emotional resonance. While the majority of critiques focus on the positives, some reviewers note limitations in the depth of analysis or execution. Hobby Consolas and Nintenderos mention that no further details about the quality or extent of voice acting are provided, leaving gaps in understanding its impact. GameSpot (PS4) acknowledges the "steely narration" but contrasts it with a "uninteresting script," suggesting a mixed experience. Similarly, Eurogamer Italy (PC) and Everyeye.it (PC) mention the use of Scandinavian languages with subtitles but fail to elaborate on the voice acting’s technical or emotional nuances. IGN Denmark and IGN Sweden highlight Thora’s voiceover but offer minimal critique beyond its atmospheric contributions. These reviews indicate that while the voice acting is appreciated, some critics feel it lacks broader contextualization or deeper exploration of its role in the game’s design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Icelandic voice acting in Jotun: Valhalla Edition is a significant asset, enhancing the game’s authenticity and mythological atmosphere. While some reviews are brief or mixed, the majority—such as those from CGMagazine, Games.cz, and Twinfinite—emphasize its emotional depth and cultural resonance. The use of Old Norse and Icelandic languages, paired with subtitles, is seen as a deliberate choice to immerse players in the game’s Nordic setting. Though not all critiques delve into technical aspects, the recurring praise for authenticity and narrative immersion suggests that the voice acting is widely regarded as a core strength, even if its full impact remains underexplored in some reviews.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics rave about Jotun: Valhalla Edition’s immersive Icelandic/Old Norse voice acting, calling it a pillar of its mythic atmosphere and emotional depth—though some note the script lacks polish.

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Jotun: Valhalla Edition’s technical performance is inconsistent across platforms—Nintendo Switch shines with smooth gameplay despite load times, PS4 and Xbox One face camera glitches and navigation issues, while PC delivers solid but minorly glitchy performance. No platform is flawless.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Jotun: Valhalla Edition varies across platforms, with notable strengths on the Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, and PC. On the Nintendo Switch, multiple reviewers like App Trigger, Everyeye.it, and Nintenderos praised its smooth gameplay, consistent visuals, and support for all modes (TV, handheld, tabletop). GamingTrend highlighted the absence of bugs or crashes, while Hobby Consolas noted improvements from earlier versions. The PS4 version received commendations for running at a stable 60fps (Everyeye.it) and maintaining polished performance, with GameSpot noting its parity with PC. On Xbox One, ICXM and We Got This Covered emphasized flawless execution and stability, though some critics like MondoXbox pointed to map navigation issues. The PC version, as noted by Everyeye.it and IGN Spain, delivered smooth performance with minor frame rate dips and visual glitches, while Games.cz acknowledged its overall technical solidity. However, platform-specific technical challenges emerged in several reviews. On the Nintendo Switch, GameSpot and Nintendo World Report criticized lengthy load times (15–30 seconds), which disrupted gameplay flow, while GamingTrend noted that optimization favored TV mode over handheld. The PS4 faced issues like camera limitations during boss fights (GamePro Germany, God is a Geek) and unresponsive controls (IGN Italia). On Xbox One, MondoXbox highlighted problematic enemy respawns, inaccurate hitboxes, and camera misplacement, while XBLA Fans lamented navigation frustrations. The PC version, though stable, had minor glitches like frame rate dips (IGN) and abstract map systems (PlayStation Universe), with some critics like Ragequit.gr noting limited optimization details. These issues, while varied, collectively underscored the game’s technical inconsistencies across platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Jotun: Valhalla Edition maintains a generally stable core experience, but platform-specific optimizations and bugs affect the player’s enjoyment. The Nintendo Switch version, despite load time issues, was praised for its smooth performance and versatility, while the PS4 and Xbox One versions faced more targeted technical flaws like camera problems and map navigation challenges. The PC port, though stable, had minor graphical and control hiccups. While GameSpot and IGN Spain acknowledged that all platforms are largely on par with each other in terms of stability, the nuanced criticisms from outlets like MondoXbox and God is a Geek reveal that no platform is entirely free of technical shortcomings. This mixed reception highlights the game’s broader technical strengths but also its uneven execution across different hardware.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Jotun: Valhalla Edition offers moderate replayability via its challenging Valhalla Mode boss rush, but its short 3–8 hour campaign, repetitive mechanics, and lack of post-game content severely limit long-term appeal. While artful visuals, mythic themes, and skill-based trials entice revisit, the game’s linear design and artificial difficulty feel tailored for a single playthrough—making Valhalla a fleeting highlight rather than a lasting hook.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviewers generally acknowledge that Jotun: Valhalla Edition offers some replayability through its Valhalla Mode (Boss Rush), which introduces increased difficulty and challenges for returning players. Critics like GameSpot and Arcade Sushi highlight the mode’s appeal for completionists and speedrun enthusiasts, noting that the boss battles—described as "memorable" and "challenging"—provide a fresh experience even after the main story concludes. The game’s unique art style, mythological themes, and engaging narrative also serve as incentives for revisiting, with GameSpot and Hobby Consolas emphasizing that its atmospheric design and artistic merit encourage multiple playthroughs for appreciation of its visuals and storytelling. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Brash Games, praise the Valhalla Mode as a significant enhancement to replayability, mitigating the game’s short length by focusing on skill-based challenges. However, the majority of critics point to significant limitations in the game’s replay value. The core campaign is consistently criticized for its short duration (ranging from 3–8 hours) and repetitive exploration mechanics, with Eurogamer Italy and IGN Italia noting that the lack of post-game content or meaningful progression diminishes long-term appeal. While the Valhalla Mode adds some variety, many argue it is not enough to justify multiple playthroughs, as highlighted by GamingTrend and GameCritics, who describe the mode as inaccessible early or lacking substantial new challenges. The game’s linear structure, artificial difficulty in traversal, and limited post-credits content further restrict replayability, with Vandal and Everyeye.it pointing out that the experience feels designed to be completed once. Even the boss rush, while praised by some, is seen as a "highlight" rather than a transformative feature. The overall consensus among critics is that Jotun: Valhalla Edition has moderate replayability, primarily driven by its Valhalla Mode but constrained by its short length and repetitive design. While GameSpot, Push Square, and We Got This Covered acknowledge that the game’s challenging boss fights, artistic elements, and score-tracking mechanics offer some incentive for revisits, most agree that it falls short of being a highly replayable title. The game’s strengths—such as its unique aesthetic and focused challenge—are tempered by its lack of depth and post-game content, leaving many reviewers, like IGN Spain and GameOver.gr, to conclude that it appeals more to fans of short, intense experiences than to those seeking long-term engagement. Ultimately, the Valhalla Mode is seen as a worthwhile addition but not a cure for the game’s inherent limitations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of Jotun: Valhalla Edition highlights its strengths in visual artistry, atmospheric design, and thematic depth. Critics consistently praise its hand-drawn visuals, which immerse players in a richly detailed Norse mythology world, with GameStar calling it an "indie gem" and Kill Screen likening it to a "modern Edda." The game’s combat system, particularly its boss battles, is celebrated for its challenge and creativity, with Nintendo Life noting its "engaging boss fights" and Arcade Sushi describing it as a "visually stunning and rewarding adventure." Additionally, the game’s dedication to Norse themes and cultural authenticity resonates strongly, as highlighted by Eurogamer Italy, which praised its "narrative integration," and IGN Sweden, who commended its "strong narrative." These elements collectively position Jotun as a standout title for fans of atmospheric, mythologically inspired games. However, several critics point to significant flaws that hinder the experience. Repetition in exploration mechanics and uneven pacing are recurring complaints, with Switch Player describing the "tedious and uninspired" exploration segments and NintendoWorldReport criticizing the "repetitive gameplay" and "long loading times." The game’s limited progression systems and lack of dynamic elements also draw criticism, as noted by TheSixthAxis, who gave it a 6/10, and Multiplayer.it, which highlighted its "uneven design" and "frustration over pacing." Additionally, some reviewers, like DarkStation, argue that the game prioritizes artistry over gameplay balance, calling it a "vehicle for visual and auditory design rather than a strong game experience." These issues create a sense of missed potential, particularly in areas like replayability and narrative depth, which several critics (e.g., CGMagazine and GameOver.gr) note as shortcomings. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is cautiously positive, with many acknowledging Jotun: Valhalla Edition as a memorable, if imperfect, experience. While some, like GameSpot and IGN, laud its "perfect storybook" quality and emotional impact, others, such as GameSpace, recommend it for its "visually stunning indie experience" despite its brevity. The game’s strengths in artistry and combat often outweigh its flaws, particularly for fans of Norse mythology and retro-style action-adventure games. Critics like GameCritics and Brash Games suggest the developers are on the right track, emphasizing that Jotun succeeds as a "unique" and "artistic" title even if it falls short of perfection. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a mixed but generally favorable view, with many recommending it to niche audiences who prioritize visual and thematic immersion over polished mechanics.

TL;DR

Jotun: Valhalla Edition dazzles with stunning Norse artistry and intense boss battles but suffers from repetitive gameplay and uneven pacing, offering a visually breathtaking yet flawed experience that appeals to niche fans over mainstream audiences.

MONSTER

Reviews

77 reviews found

100

DarkStation

Nov 18, 2015