Cloudheim, developed by Noodle Cat Games and published by the same studio, entered Early Access on Steam December 3, 2025, with console versions (PS5, Xbox) planned for 2026. This 1-4 player cooperative action RPG fuses physics-based combat mayhem, visual crafting, base-building on a flying turtle, and Norse mythology-inspired exploration in a post-Ragnarok world. Players awaken dormant gods, fight corruption, and upgrade their sky shop while chaining devastating combos in destructible environments. At $29.99 with a demo boasting 77% positive reviews, Cloudheim promises addictive group play—but does the chaotic blend deliver value amid Early Access jank?
What is Cloudheim About?
Ragnarok has shattered the world into floating islands overrun by corruption and sleeping ancient deities. Summoned by Odin Shell—a massive ancient turtle carrying a fragment of a dead god's power—you and up to three friends explore diverse biomes, craft evolving weapons, and restore harmony. Missions span icy Frostvaldr tombs, volcanic Pyregard challenges, and shifting dungeons filled with puzzles, loot, and monstrous foes.
The narrative weaves restoration themes through colorful characters like insatiable Gnasher and adorable Blins, blending cozy base-building with high-stakes survival. No strict storyline—focus on emergent adventures: discover gods, chain physics combos, expand your turtle fortress, and sell crafted gear in a thriving shop. It's Zelda meets Devil May Cry in a co-op sandbox, emphasizing teamwork, reactivity, and infinite crafting possibilities.
Core Gameplay Mechanics
Cloudheim shines in physics-driven action and seamless co-op systems.
Chaotic Physics Combat
Combat rewards aerial juggles: triple-jump, lasso enemies into tornadoes, topple pillars, kick exploding barrels, or shoot Greebles from cannons. Longer airborne time amplifies ground-slam damage, echoing character-action games like Devil May Cry. Environments destruct fully—bonus damage from collapsing structures or environmental kills adds strategy. Chain abilities (fireballs, hooks, dashes) for team combos; solo play works but co-op elevates chaos.
Real-Time Visual Crafting
No menus halt action: gather resources mid-adventure, smelt ore at portable stations into weapons, gear, or abilities. Evolve items infinitely—sell extras to fund Odin Shell upgrades like expanded workshops or shops. Ping system marks loot/points for teammates without voice chat.
Exploration and Base-Building
Glide across islands with agile movement (no fall damage), solve overworld puzzles for chests, and raid dungeons. Odin Shell serves as hub: customize space, run vendor NPCs, uncover secrets. Progression unlocks shared weapons/abilities across party, new characters, and world-shaping crafts.
Matches blend 20-40 minute adventures with persistent growth; Early Access roadmap adds maps, gods, anti-cheat.
Graphics, Performance, and Platforms
Unreal Engine delivers Zelda-like vibrancy: lush skies, detailed destructibles, dynamic effects (volumetric fog, particle chaos). Physics visuals pop—ragdolls fly hilariously, combos feel impactful. Audio punches with crunchy hits, Norse atmospheres, and lively soundscapes.
Performance: Smooth 60+ FPS on mid-range PCs (RTX 3060/GTX 1080 Ti); Steam Deck verified. PC Early Access now; PS5/Xbox soon with 60fps targets. Demos run stable, though beta noted minor jank in fast combat.
Multiplayer and Solo Experience
Co-op Excellence: Up to 4 players share unlocks, coordinate pings/combos; hilarious moments like group-kicking bosses abound. Solo viable with AI helpers, but lacks team synergy magic.
Community praises 25+ hour demos for polish, puzzles, reactivity; critiques: scope overload, refinement needs. Peak players growing; crossplay planned.
Comparisons to Similar Games
Cloudheim merges Zelda: Breath of the Wild exploration, Devil May Cry combat, Valheim crafting, and Deep Rock Galactic co-op into Norse chaos. Vs. Genshin Impact: tighter physics focus, no gacha. Outshines Enshrouded with aerial juggles; rivals Dauntless in monster-slaying fun but adds base-building depth. For physics fans, it's unique mayhem-blender.
Is Cloudheim Worth Buying in 2025?
Yes, strong buy at $29.99 for co-op RPG fans—demo confirms addictive loops. Physics combat delights, crafting feels fresh, world charms with verticality and reactivity. 40-60+ hours potential with updates; value rivals full $40 titles.
Buy if you:
Crave friends for combo chaos, base upgrades, Norse adventures.
Love Zelda action + survival crafting hybrids.youtube
Mid-range hardware ready for vibrant open worlds.youtube
Wait/sale if:
Solo-only; shines brightest in groups.
Zero bugs essential—Early Access has jank.
Tight narrative priority over sandbox freedom.
Demo (77% positive) low-risk tests fit; roadmap ensures longevity.
Final Verdict
Cloudheim captivates as 2025's wild co-op gem, mastering physics brawls, visual crafting, and sky-high Norse restoration. Early Access rough edges fade against joyful chaos and group highs. 8.7/10—day-one for multiplayer crews, future classic potential.
