by variety
Hardback (6.4×9.4 inches). 256 pages. 2025 compilation of numerous previous Osprey booklets.
Unless most books, where the author retains copyright over the work, Osprey buys the copyrights to the text and original illustrations for one lump sum. Whether a particular booklet sells one copy or a million, is reprinted or not, the author is paid the same. Likewise, Osprey owns all the uniform and vehicle illustrations — you can buy the original artwork from the artist, but reproduction rights rest with Osprey.
In any case, this long pre-amble is to let you know this book, with no author’s name on the cover, is a compilation of a variety of Viking booklets: Combat 27, Combat 63, Weapon 66, Elite 3, Warrior 3, and New Vanguard 47.
This will explain all things viking, from domestic culture to warrior weaponry and tactics. You won’t find specific battles outlined in detail enough for a tabletop scenario, but for everything else, including color uniform and ship illustrations, here’s a one-stop source.
In particular, I found the concise explanation of Ragnarok (p36), which was a bit different than I thought. While obliteration and battle is part of it, resurrection is also a part of it after the big final battle.
The book contains nine black and white illustrations, 57 color illustrations, 80 color photos, and eight black and white photos.
If you already own the booklets, then you have little reason to buy this hardback compilation. If not, then you have an opportunity to basically obtain them all in one well-written hardback book.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
