The group of Norsemen who became known as ‘Vikings’ referred specifically to the seafarers who raided those lands bordering the North Sea, particularly the sparsely-defended Britannic coasts. Vikings were not just raiders, however, they also created a thriving trading economy, facilitated by their excellent shipbuilding and sailing skills. Their characteristic ‘longships’ enabled them to extend their reach as far afield as Russia, Ireland, and even Greenland.

1. Attila Total War Best Viking Faction
2. Attila Total War Viking Units Mod

Attila Total War Best Viking Faction

Attila Total War Viking Units Mod

There is also evidence that later in the Dark Ages Viking explorers discovered America, several centuries before Christopher Columbus claimed it for Spain. On the battlefield, Vikings generally used the traditional barbarian charge as part of their raiding tactics – striking hard and fast before melting away again as quickly as they appeared.