Ask a Viking

Master Viking Olaf has the experience to show you the shape of things to come. Look at what he has to tell you and then consider his orientation carefully.

What is this?

This is a puzzle event inspired by The Game. In these events, teams overcome challenges – often puzzly, sometimes physical, always fun.

What do you think of the current fashion of young girls wearing Viking helmets?

I disapprove of that trend. I remember the days when you'd see a young girl wearing a lovely bonett, but you just don't see that anymore.

Who can play?

Everyone and anyone is free to form a Viking clan and join in the conquest! Clans of up to 5 Vikings are allowed and you’ll want at least 4 Vikings in your clan to fare well in this conquest.

Don't those Viking robes get in the way during battle?

As long as you've properly fastened your Asker clip, you shouldn't have any problem at all.

I want to join your conquest, but my clan doesn’t have enough Vikings! What can I do?

If you need additional Vikings to join your clan, try the Seattle GC discussion groups or if you’re at Microsoft, try the puzzmate DL.

Do Vikings have middle names?

Sure! Mine happens to be Karljohan.

When does this conquest start?

We set sail the morning of September 26th, 2009 at 9:30am sharp. Clans should arrive to check in for the conquest starting at 9:00am.

What’s the greatest battle you’ve ever fought in?

The battle to defend our Hemma base is one that will live in my heart forever. We lost many a strong Viking that day.

What is the per-clan cost to join the conquest?

Each Viking clan must contribute $50 to join the conquest. This will cover the supplies needed for your adventure plus a post-conquest feast. Vikings who wish to purchase additional food mid-journey are encouraged to bring money to cover that.

How do large groups of Vikings accomplish such great raids? Isn’t it just chaos?

The secret is to have a strong leader. I remember the voyages I made under the great Vika Artur. He could lead an unruly mob of Vikings just about anywhere.

How do I make payment to join the conquest?

Viking clans may submit their payment via Paypal to cyndy.jeff@gmail.com or by mailing a check to the following address:

   c/o Cynthia Wessling
   15522 NE 61st Ct.
   Redmond, WA 98052

Please clearly indicate the name of your Viking clan when submitting your payment.

What’s your favorite kind of ale?

I only drink Karlskrona. Anything else is crap!

What if it rains that day?

Surely a tough Viking like you is not afraid of a little rain. We set sail rain or shine. Dress accordingly.

I’d like to try making my own weapons. What do you advise?

I advise you to leave that to the experts! Why, I remember the time I tried making a bumerang shaped blade that would return to me in battle. Not a great idea as it turned out.

I’m busy on September 26th. Is there a way I can still help with the conquest?

What's your favorite form of hunting and gathering?

I'm a game hunter, myself. I remember after one hunt we served up a huge tray of antilop. That was some fine feasting!

Where do I sign up for the conquest?

Viking clans may sign up on our Registration page.

I have an older sword in need of refurbishing. What do you recommend?

You’ll want to visit the blacksmith Sune. There’s not a sword in this world he can’t fix.

Do I need to be athletic for this?

Ah, so you're more the drinking and feasting type than the raiding type. That's fine. You will end up walking less than two miles over the course of the day, you won't walk that full distance at once, and you'll have time to rest while solving puzzles. If you have particular concerns, please contact us.

Who has been the largest influence on your career as a Viking?

I've had a great many influences, but my heart always goes back to my dear father. He was the best påtår a Viking could want.

Can we bring computers? What about Internet access?

What kind of Viking uses "computers" and "the Internet"?!?! We don't prohibit the use of Internet-enabled phones to look up information, though all puzzles have been designed not to require external sources. We will provide you with a reference containing any encodings needed. You may bring a laptop computer if you so desire, though it will not give you a strong advantage.

Where's the best place to do some sightseeing around here?

You can't beat the view from Leksvik tower.

If we are stuck on a particular challenge during the conquest, what assistance is available to us?

No one likes a frustrated Viking. Hints will be available every 15 minutes after starting a challenge, unless otherwise indicated.

There are so many Viking legends. How can I tell which ones are true?

Don’t concern yourself with what is true or false, but appreciate the story. Why, I remember the night I listened to the great storyteller Ekby Bjarnum. I learned more that evening than in my next 10 years of pillaging.

Who is planning this conquest?

Los Jefes and select friends are responsible for this conquest. This event is being simulcast in the San Francisco Bay Area by Code Yellow and friends.

I’m headed to Sweden. Can you recommend a good tavern?

Go to the bar in Utby. It’s the best I’ve ever visited.

Okay, where do we gather to set sail and what should I bring?

Ah, to tell you that, I’ll need you to provide the password. A smart Viking like you should be able to figure it out after asking me all these questions.

Password:

Anything else you’d like to add?

Ljusås Usta!