About this episode

In this episode, Becky Hill interviews Joshua Gillingham about his new card game, Halls of Asgard, exploring its mechanics and themes rooted in Norse mythology.

Joining me in Valhalla is returning guest, Joshua Gillingham from Little Hammer Games, as we discuss and officially launch his latest @kickstarter card game, Halls of Asgard! Join the Kickstarter by the link below: "HALLS OF ASGARD is a semi-cooperative social strategy game for 3-6 players (25-45 min) with absolutely stunning hand-painted art by celebrated Norse mythology artist Helena Rosova. Clocking in on the lighter side, it’s a great starter for those new to board games with easy set up, a simple mechanic that can generate surprisingly intricate cooperative strategies, and guaranteed memorable times. The semi-cooperative aspect lends itself to a delightful tension between defeating Hela, goddess of the Norse underworld, and out-doing your fellow Asgardian gods. Each player takes on the role of a god (Odin, Thor, Freya, Heimdal, Idun, or Loki) with two unique powers and one unique curse. Gazing down at the mortals passing through the life stages (Child/Warrior/Elder) on the Midgard board, they use their powers to claim heroes that join them in their hall in preparation for Ragnarok. Along the way, Hela claims mortals off the Midgard board and gains all those who die without…

People in this episode

Host: Becky Hill

Guest: Joshua Gillingham

Topics covered

• Norse mythology
• board games
• game design
• social strategy
• Kickstarter
• cooperative gameplay

Keywords

• Halls of Asgard
• Norse gods
• Kickstarter
• board game
• social strategy
• cooperative game
• Helena Rosova
• game mechanics
• Ragnarok

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Little Hammer Games

Products: Halls of Asgard

Places: Midgard

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• The Viking Berserkr with Dr Roderick Dale · March 26, 2026 · 1h 15m
• Vikings for Kids with C.J. Adrien (author) and Crystal Whithaus (illustrator) · March 13, 2026 · 1h 1m
• Worlds of Words & Vikings: In conversation with Justin Hill, Giles Kristian & Theo Brun · December 18, 2025 · 1h 16m
• Meet Bjarni, the Science Viking · December 4, 2025 · 1h 44m
• Sam Flegal & The Illustrated Lokasenna Kickstarter (Bonus Episode) · November 25, 2025 · 1h 30m

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