Valheim 'Call To Arms' Update Revealed with Major Combat Overhaul and New Content

Valheim's Upcoming 'Call To Arms' Update Promises Big Changes

Just a few days ago, during the Gamescom 2025 exhibition, Iron Gate studio, the developers behind the popular survival game Valheim, announced a major global update titled 'Call To Arms'. While an official release date for the update has not yet been set, players are already able to explore and test the forthcoming content on the game's public test server.

Deep Dive into the New Features

The 'Call To Arms' update is packed with significant additions and overhauls, primarily focusing on enhancing Valheim's combat system:

• Combat System Improvements: Perfect blocks will no longer consume stamina, offering a more rewarding defensive playstyle. The speed of battle axes, sledgehammers, and tower shields has been slightly increased, making these weapons and defensive items more viable. Vertical combat has also seen improvements, making it easier for players to hit enemies on sloped terrain.
• Ability Rebalance: Existing abilities will undergo a rebalance, though specific details are yet to be fully outlined.
• New Item Type: Talismans: Players can look forward to discovering 13 new talismans at launch. These mystical items will grant adrenaline during combat and unlock temporary bonuses, adding a fresh layer of strategy to engagements.
• New Ability: Perfect Dodge: A new 'Perfect Dodge' ability will be introduced, allowing skilled players to evade attacks with precise timing.
• Expanded Arsenal: The update brings 18 new weapons, 9 of which are wooden. These wooden weapons can be used for practice against friends without inflicting damage, perfect for honing combat skills.
• New Armor and Creatures: Two new sets of armor will be available, alongside two new creatures, including the highly anticipated bear.
• Crafting and Building Additions: Players will find 8 new crafting materials, opening up new possibilities, and 3 new building structures to expand their settlements.
• Character Customization: For those looking to personalize their Viking, the update includes 3 new hairstyles and 5 new beard options.
• New Location: A new ruins location will be added to the world, providing fresh areas to explore and secrets to uncover.
• Technical Updates: The game engine will receive an update to Unity, and various bug fixes will be implemented to improve overall stability and performance.

What This Means for Valheim Players

Valheim has been in Steam Early Access since 2021, and made its way to Xbox consoles in Spring 2023. This 'Call To Arms' update signifies a continued commitment from Iron Gate studio to evolve and refine the game. While a full release date remains undisclosed, this extensive update, particularly the combat enhancements and new content, promises to refresh the gameplay experience for both veteran Vikings and new adventurers alike. Players are encouraged to join the test server to provide feedback and get an early look at what's coming next for the Norse-inspired survival title.