Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel

Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel, a Norse mythology–themed horde survival game, is currently available for free on Windows — 100% free to keep — as part of a limited-time Epic Store’s giveaway offer. Take advantage of it, as Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel normally costs US$14.99.

Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel is an independent horde survival game set in a fantasy world inspired by Norse mythology, where players face ever-growing legions of enemies across various arena-based environments. The game was developed by Games Farm and ARTillery, and was originally released on September 3, 2025.

At its core, the title follows in the footsteps of games such as Vampire Survivors, incorporating roguelike elements and run-based progression, while moving away from retro pixel art in favor of more modern three-dimensional graphics. There is no progression through rooms or chambers, nor branching path choices (left/right); instead, combat takes place within fixed-size arenas.

Published by Grindstone and available on Windows, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5, Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel received a mixed critical reception. It is also regarded as a challenging game, even for players familiar with the genre, focusing on constant pressure and appealing to gamers who enjoy experimenting with builds and surviving under intense conditions.

You can get the game here!

Trailer

Gameplay

Matches in Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel take place in fixed-size arenas, in which the player selects a protagonist—each with unique characteristics—and faces continuous, progressively more aggressive waves of enemies, with no progression through rooms, chambers, or branching path choices. As previously noted, the game is a horde survival title with roguelike elements and run-based progression.

During each run, the player controls a hero with distinct starting attributes and abilities, such as combat style, mobility, health points, and damage output. By defeating enemies and surviving for extended periods, the character levels up and can select new abilities or improve previously acquired proficiencies. A limited number of active and passive abilities can be equipped, with passive abilities functioning in a rune-like manner and influencing the character’s overall performance.

Throughout the match, temporary objectives and optional missions appear, which may include collecting items within the arena, defeating specific enemies, or surviving for a set amount of time under adverse conditions. These challenges feature varying levels of difficulty and proportional rewards, and may also introduce gameplay modifiers, such as restrictions on ability usage or environmental effects that impact player movement.

Progression within a run culminates in encounters with bosses, which appear after the completion of a sequence of objectives. These confrontations require strategic positioning, effective ability management, and resilience under pressure from additional enemies and time constraints. If the player is defeated during a run, all progress from that attempt is lost.

In addition to the temporary progression within individual matches, the game features meta-progression systems that allow for the unlocking of permanent perks, new abilities, weapons, and bonuses, expanding build customization options and increasing the chances of survival in future runs.

About the game

Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel is a gripping roguelike horde arena survival game with top-notch graphics set in the dark realms of Norse Mythology. Choose one of the damned heroes and attempt to pass the ancient Norse Gods’ test and earn their blessings by fighting your way through waves of mythical adversaries, exploring hostile worlds and facing powerful bosses.

If you succeed in all the trials, you will become the chosen Jotunnslayer, a god-like warrior, in this ultimate showdown.

FAST-PACED BATTLES AGAINST HORDES OF ENEMIES

Engage in adrenaline-fueled battles, fighting off endless waves of enemies as you strive to survive. Complete various objectives, defeat the final boss, and earn the ultimate prizes.

TAKE ON IN-RUN MISSIONS FOR ADDED CHALLENGES

Take on challenging missions during each run to test your skills and enrich your journey through the Nine Worlds. These quests may involve completing specific objectives or overcoming additional obstacles as you battle relentless enemies on your way to the final challenge.

EXPERIENCE META-PROGRESSION WITH UNLOCKABLE PERKS

Improve your abilities with meta-progression systems that offer unlockable perks, in-game skills, or upgrades. As you progress further, you’ll gain access to new abilities, weapons, and bonuses that allow you to customize your playstyle and improve your chances of survival.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR GAMEPLAY WITH DIVERSE CHARACTERS FOR ENDLESS COMBINATIONS

Select from a roster of diverse characters, each equipped with unique skills, abilities, and weapons. Mix and match combinations to refine your builds and overcome the many challenges posed by the Hordes of Hel.

FACE ESCALATING BOSS THREATS

Face a variety of increasingly challenging Boss enemies as you progress through the game. Outmaneuver and defeat these formidable foes using the environment, your skills, and abilities to gain the advantage and achieve victory.