Okay, let's get real for a second. Everyone's talking about Vikings: Valhalla. But a nagging question lingers. Do you really need to wade through six seasons of the original Vikings first?
The Viking Dilemma: To Binge or Not to Binge?
That's the question, isn't it? We're all busy. Who has time for endless hours of shield walls and political intrigue?
My Hot Take (Brace Yourselves)
Here's my controversial opinion: You probably don't need to! *Gasp!* I said it.
Look, Vikings: Valhalla is set a century after the events of Vikings. It's a new generation, new conflicts, new hair.
Think of it like this: You don't need to watch a silent film to understand the latest Marvel movie, right?
Why You Might Be Okay Going In Cold
Valhalla introduces its characters pretty well. They explain the history you *need* to know.
There are mentions of Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons, sure. They're Viking legends. But the show doesn't expect you to know their entire family tree.
Think of it like hearing about King Arthur if you've never read Le Morte d'Arthur. You get the gist.
But... Okay, There's a "But"
Alright, alright, before the Vikings purists come for me with their axes... There *are* benefits to watching the original.
You'll understand some references better. And you might appreciate the world-building a bit more.
Plus, Vikings is a solid show! It's got battles, drama, and enough braids to make your head spin.
The Easter Egg Hunt
Consider watching Vikings like going on an Easter egg hunt. You might find some cool connections in Valhalla.
Think of it as bonus content, not required reading. It's like understanding the callbacks in a sequel. Cool, but not essential for enjoying the main story.
So, Can You Do It?
In my humble opinion: Yes! Go ahead and dive into Vikings: Valhalla. You can always circle back to Vikings later if you get hooked on the world.
Seriously, don't let FOMO keep you from enjoying a good show. Life's too short to binge-watch hundreds of hours just to "catch up."
The Ultimate Test
Still unsure? Watch the first episode of Vikings: Valhalla. If you're completely lost and confused, then maybe start with season one of Vikings.
If you're having fun and following along, keep going! You're golden. You're officially a Viking-adjacent individual.
My Final Word (and Mild Shaming)
Ultimately, it's your call. But let's be honest, some of us just want to watch hot Vikings fight and scheme. And that's perfectly valid.
So, go forth and enjoy! And if anyone gives you grief for skipping the original, just tell them Queen Emma of Normandy sent you. That should shut them up.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some Viking-adjacent things to watch. Skål!
