New RPG 'Among the Trolls' Combines Elements of Valheim and Skyrim

Fans of survival and exploration games will soon have a new title to anticipate: 'Among the Trolls,' an upcoming role-playing game (RPG) set to launch on Steam. This game draws inspiration from popular titles such as 'Valheim' and 'Skyrim,' promising players an immersive experience as they venture into a fantastical interpretation of Finland's enchanting forests.

Scheduled for release under the management of Avantgarden, 'Among the Trolls' invites players to step into the shoes of Anna, a character who travels from the United States to her grandfather's secluded cabin in Finland. Upon arrival, Anna finds the cabin abandoned, leading her on a quest filled with elements from Finnish mythology and encounters with supernatural creatures. The game's official description emphasizes the importance of exploration and survival, as players navigate the wilderness while uncovering the mysteries surrounding Anna's missing grandfather.

The development of 'Among the Trolls' has seen its share of challenges. Initially created by Forbidden Studios, the project faced setbacks when the studio closed its doors in 2022. However, in January 2025, Avantgarden revived the project, transitioning the game's development to Unreal Engine, a significant change from its original Unity platform. This switch is anticipated to enhance the game's graphical and performance capabilities, aligning with contemporary gaming standards.

Avantgarden's approach to the game's launch includes a strategy to utilize Steam Early Access. This method allows the developers to gather community feedback, refine gameplay mechanics, and ensure that the final product meets player expectations. The studio remains active in communicating with its audience through forums and social media, offering regular updates about the game's progress.

While the precise release date for the Early Access version of 'Among the Trolls' has not yet been disclosed, the developer's engagement with potential players indicates a commitment to transparency and improvement based on user input.

Industry experts highlight the significance of this game within the current gaming landscape. According to Dr. Emily Carter, a Professor of Game Design at the University of Southern California, 'The integration of cultural mythology into gameplay not only enriches the narrative but also provides an educational aspect that can appeal to a broader audience.' This sentiment is echoed by industry analyst Mark Thompson, who notes, 'The fusion of survival mechanics from 'Valheim' and the rich storytelling of 'Skyrim' could position 'Among the Trolls' as a standout title in the competitive RPG market.'

The growing interest in games that blend exploration and mythology reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry, where players seek not only entertainment but also deeper, culturally resonant experiences. As developers continue to innovate, 'Among the Trolls' may pave the way for similar titles that explore unique narratives drawn from diverse cultural backgrounds.

As the gaming community eagerly awaits more details, the potential for 'Among the Trolls' to capture the imagination of both 'Valheim' and 'Skyrim' fans remains high. With its unique premise and robust development strategy, this RPG could very well emerge as a significant contender in the genre when it finally debuts on Steam.