Gripping Beast Jomsvikings – minis from my collection.
When we picture Vikings, we imagine fearless raiders sailing the seas in their dragon-headed ships, looting and pillaging. But there was one group of Vikings who took that fierce reputation and added a layer of discipline—and a whole lot of myth – Jomsvikings. They were a band of elite, almost “professional” Viking warriors who lived by a strict code and hired themselves out to whoever could afford their services. Sound intriguing? Here’s my short overview of these mercenaries in wargaming.
So, Who Were the Jomsvikings?
Stories of the Jomsvikings pop up in medieval texts like the Jómsvíkinga Saga and Saxo Grammaticus’s Gesta Danorum. Sure, details vary and can lean into the legendary, but there are a few key points that come up again and again:
- A Home Base Called Jomsborg
Legend places Jomsborg on the southern Baltic coast (in what’s now Poland). Picture a fortified Viking stronghold, complete with thick walls and watchtowers—perfect for launching raids or welcoming new recruits. - Elite and Disciplined
While your average Viking might have a freewheeling “live by the sword” attitude, the Jomsvikings are said to have been tightly organized. Some stories claim they had to duel existing members just to get in. - Mercenaries for Hire
Need some tough Vikings who always get the job done? If you were a medieval ruler (and had deep pockets), you could hire the Jomsvikings. That said, they weren’t just in it for the gold—respecting their code was just as important. - Mix of Pagan and Christian Influence
Depending on the source, the Jomsvikings might be depicted as pagan die-hards or a mixed bunch open to Christianity. Either way, their fearsome reputation transcended religious lines.
Tales and Tall Stories
Viking sagas tend to layer facts with a fair amount of embellishment. So, while historians still debate how real or fictional some details are, the Jomsvikings pop up in plenty of epic stories:
- Showdowns in Scandinavia
They’re usually cast in the thick of power struggles among kings in Norway and Denmark—backstabbing, heroic last stands, and dramatic plot twists galore. - Legendary Leaders
Names like Palnatoke, Sigvaldi Strut-Haraldsson, and Vagn Åkason loom large in the tales, each with their own saga-worthy exploits. - Strict Rules
No warriors over 50 (apparently), zero tolerance for cowardice, and severe punishments for even minor misconduct. While that might be an exaggeration, it definitely plays up their elite vibe.
Building a Jomsvikings Warband on Your Wargaming Table
1. Building the Look
If you’re running a Viking-era force (maybe for a game like SAGA or Lion Rampant), you can easily adapt them into a Jomsviking warband. Here are some ideas:
- Matching Shields and Armor
Give them a uniform feel with matching shield colors or symbols—a far cry from the ragtag look typical of many Vikings. - Consistent Equipment
Maybe they all have the same style of helmet or chainmail to show their discipline.
2. On the Battlefield
- Boost Their Morale
Since they’re known for discipline, give them better morale or leadership in your wargame. - Elite Status
Up their combat stats to show they’re not your average bunch of raiders. - Dual Threat
Jomsvikings should be comfortable fighting on land or at sea—perfect for amphibious scenarios if your rules support it.
3. Scenario Inspiration
- Defense of Jomsborg
Pit them against a much larger enemy force trying to storm their legendary fortress. - Mercenary Bidding War
Let different players compete for Jomsviking loyalty. Whoever wins might gain a big advantage—though it might cost them a fortune (and maybe their dignity). - Betrayal and Comeuppance
A Jomsviking who broke their code returns with a rival army, looking for payback.
Painting Tips
- Metallic Magic
Jomsvikings will likely sport chainmail, so try a simple metallic dry brush over a dark basecoat for a realistic, worn look. - Weathering
Show they’re battle-hardened by adding dirt, blood spatters, or chipped shields—whatever looks right for your style. - Unique Characters
Give leaders or champions special touches, like fur cloaks or detailed helmet crests, to make them stand out.
Sharpen Your Axe, and Dield Some Vikings for Hire
We may never know exactly how many of the Jomsviking legends are true, but that hasn’t stopped them from capturing our imaginations for centuries. For tabletop wargamers, they’re a fantastic fusion of Viking ferocity and strict military discipline—a perfect recipe for dramatic showdowns and memorable battles.
So if you want to spice up your Viking collection or just love the idea of a disciplined horde of axe-wielding warriors, the Jomsvikings are for you. Suit up, set sail, and prepare for battle—these legendary mercenaries have arrived, and they’re ready to show what a true Viking warband can do!
