With Vikings now all wrapped up after a fantastic sixth season, fans are looking for their next fix when it comes to action and detailed storytelling. Thankfully, with so many amazing television shows around at the moment, there is no shortage of great content to jump into next. In fact, the only real chore is managing to narrow down the selection.
- Vikings may have gone off the air several years ago with its sixth and final season, but the historical action series still retains a sizable fanbase, thanks in part to the success of its spinoff series, Vikings: Valhalla. To this very day, it would seem that fans simply can’t get enough of the epic battles from Vikings and series that belong to a similar category.
Whether it is all about the gritty and immersive action, the rich historical setting, or shows that simply have a real knack for knocking it out of the park in terms of character development, these alternatives should scratch the itch for fans that have gone wanting.
Deadwood (2004 - 2006)
Available On HBO Max
While the premise of a drama taking place in the 1870s American Old West might seem like a far cry from the frozen north of Medieval Scandinavia and its warring tribes, there certainly are similarities in terms of style and premise. This criminally short-lived drama and subsequent movie captivated audiences with its authentically gritty settings, dynamic characters, and intriguing plots - all of which helped this show notch a whopping eight Emmys and a Golden Globe.
While the small town of Deadwood is leagues away from the likes of Vikings’ Kattegat geographically, there’s a comparable level of instability and an individualistic sense of “everyone for themselves” in this harsh, cutthroat society.
The Bastard Executioner (2015)
Available On Apple TV
Much like Vikings, The Bastard Executioner features plenty of historically-rooted fighting and violence, making it a natural fit for fans. It focuses on a knight who no longer wants to be in a war, which puts an interesting twist on the typical action-hero narrative. However, he does get dragged back into the fighting and, though unwilling, it’s what Wilkin Brattle does best.
The action and fight choreography in this show really are truly superb, and they’ll certainly keep any Vikings fan entertained, despite unfortunately only lasting for a single season. Fans will forever be left to wonder what could have been had the series been renewed for future seasons.
The White Queen (2013)
Available On The Roku Channel
This little-known historical period drama from BBC One, based on Philippa Gregory’s novel series The Cousins’ War, draws some large parallels to Vikings. This isn’t just on account of its Medieval English setting - which is actually centuries after the events of that show - but because of its focus on the complexities of European politics and rivaling factions during this time.
This underrated show also holds some comparisons to Game of Thrones, as it centers around 3 rival queens vying for the throne of England, pulling strings behind the scenes and creating a ripple effect on the lower rungs of society. What this show lacks in action it makes up for in its more realistic portrayals, terrific acting, and some emotionally rich elements of romance.
Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)
Available On Netflix
Assuming one doesn’t mind the shift in period settings, Peaky Blinders might just be right up a Vikings fan’s alley. It features some amazing characters and fantastic performances throughout, with twists and turns that keep audiences perched on the edges of their seats and sofas.
There might not be any sword fights, but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of action. There’s plenty of fighting, grit, and drama. Featuring an incredible cast led by the inimitable Cillian Murphy, this series revolves around the lives and times of the Shelby crime family in England, coming to an end earlier this year after a celebrated six seasons on the air.
Marco Polo (2014 - 2016)
The Netflix adventure drama known as Marco Polo was unfortunately canceled far too soon, yet it still proved enthralling and unique during its brief run of two compelling seasons. As this show follows the well-known Italian explorer, merchant, and writer by the same name, there is an array of unique, lavish settings and gripping, pivotal moments. The show primarily follows Marco Polo’s early years while in the court of Kublai Khan of the Mongol Empire.
While panned by some for its lack of historical accuracy, this show is similar to Vikings in that it draws from real history for its inspiration while adding its own fictional twists and creative flair. The excellent cinematography, in-depth characters, and awesome fight scenes make Marco Polo feel akin to one gigantic film rather than a TV show.
History Channel’s Barbarians (2004 - 2007)
Not Available For Streaming
This miniseries on the History Channel follows a documentary format, which emphasizes real historical events rather than fictional narratives. Yet, there is a commonality in both style and subject matter with this series and Vikings, with even an entire episode dedicated to the Vikings themselves, in addition to other tribes that resided in Europe circa Middle Ages such as the Vandals and Saxons.
Fans of Vikings who favor the historical elements should get a kick out of this one, in particular. There is a wealth of entertaining information conveyed, in addition to some fun, action-laden battle reenactments during each of the show’s eight episodes.
Sons Of Anarchy (2008 - 2014)
Available On Disney+
Sons Of Anarchy is obviously far more modern than the world of Vikings, but that makes it easy to connect with this gritty, emotional, and violent crime drama. It might be guns and explosives at times in lieu of swords and battleaxes, but it is just as easy to become invested in the gang warfare between the different motorcycle clubs.
This show follows one group as they try to become legal and legitimate, with inner politics causing heartbreak and pain along the way. There are funny moments and there are sad moments, but it is certainly a gripping show that Vikings fans would enjoy.
Spartacus (2010-2013)
Available To Purchase On Apple TV
Those who can’t wait to see some thrilling action-packed battles and hear the clashing of steel in Vikings will surely find much to love about Starz’s short-lived historical fiction, Spartacus. While the show takes some creative liberties, it does loosely adhere to authentic ancient settings and the rough life of being a gladiator in Ancient Rome.
It’s not only rife with some flashy cinematography and awesome fight scenes, but contains some surprisingly clever writing and narratives, solid performances, and some of the greatest villains in period drama TV.
The Tudors (2007-2010)
Available On CBC Gem
The Tudors is rife with backstabbing and politics as it follows the infamous King Henry VIII during his youth as he tries to secure himself a son. It showcases him going through various wives, which is something he was notorious for, all while dealing with his competition and different political issues.
While it doesn’t have the same penchant for violence as Vikings, it is just as interesting and enjoyable as it brings history to life with a relatively modern lens.
Rome (2005-2007)
Available On Crave
Like Spartacus, HBO’s two-season epic manages to portray the harsh life and chaotic sociopolitical happenings of Ancient Rome in a few episodes. But while Starz’ show goes full-throttle with a Zack Snyder-esque level of cinematic bombast, this show tends to be more grounded in gritty realism and historical accuracy. Regardless, there are still plenty of intense, entertaining battles and action scenes to be had.
The show follows Rome at one of its most turbulent and event-filled eras - the tail end of the late republic, where infighting and political rivalries are growing. Much like Vikings, Rome hones in on a few prominent figures - most notably Julius Caesar and Pompey Magnus - in a struggle to gain power, as vying factions are formed and clash with each other.
Game Of Thrones (2011-2019)
Available On HBO Max
It’s tough to draw many comparisons to a show largely centered around history - or at least historical legend - and one that leans on magic, dragons, and ice zombies for much of its premise, yet Game of Thrones contains many of the elements that draw fans to a series like Vikings.
Yet, there are plenty of commonalities when it comes to Game of Thrones’ inspiration, which, by author George R.R. Martin’s own admission, is partially taken from Medieval England. The Ironborn clan is even depicted as a northern, seafaring tribe much like the Vikings of old, and the show is wrought with the same sort of political rivalries and Medieval battles that are reminiscent of Vikings. The controversial final season may make getting into Game of Thrones seem like a wasted effort, but there’s a lot to enjoy in this highly influential epic.
The Borgias (2011 - 2013)
Available On Prime Video
Those who are interested in the Christian and general religious undertones often featured in Vikings would do well to give this little-known dramatic historical fiction a look. Showtime’s The Borgias follows the rise of a prominent family in the Roman Catholic Church, and their Game of Thrones-esque struggle to maintain power.
There is a wealth of complex sociopolitical happenings decorated with some elaborate, authentic set pieces that transport viewers to fifteenth-century Europe. There are many memorable, believable characters too - particularly in the form of the patriarch Rodrigo (Jeremy Irons) and his witty daughter Lucrezia (Holliday Grainger).
Black Sails (2014-2017)
Available On Starz
The brief, capsule descriptor of this Starz historical drama is that it’s largely the pirate version of Vikings. But really, it’s much more than that - as it contains some truly entertaining adventures, fun and detailed swashbuckling themes, and some stylish cinematography. Much like Vikings, there’s a nice blend of in-depth premises grounded and history and fictional creative glitz.
Considering the rough, gritty, and morally questionable lifestyles led by pirates, Black Sails goes full-throttle with the gore and raunchiness more reminiscent of Spartacus or Game of Thrones compared to the relatively tame Vikings. Though there’s certainly much of that same majestic historical fiction to get lost in here.
The Witcher (2019-Present)
The Witcher has been one of Netflix’s biggest successes in recent years, with a gripping and detailed first season that caught the attention of fans the world over. Taking its cues from the hit video game series and novels, there was a lot of pressure to deliver — and it absolutely does.
Just like Vikings, there are some fantastic battle sequences that will sustain any fan of action and well-choreographed fight scenes. There are elements of high fantasy with magic, monsters, and the like, but fans tend to stay for the fantastic character development and a true sense of adventure.
The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)
This series is about as close to Vikings as it gets in many ways, even taking place in the Medieval English kingdom of Wessex, at a time overlapping the events of that show, even featuring its own version of Ragnar and Alfred the Great. At the same time, there’s enough creative distinction that allows The Last Kingdom to shine on its own merit.
This show takes more of an English-centered approach, as opposed to the Scandinavian emphasis of Vikings. But it similarly features a myriad of great action sequences and battles, authentic set pieces, gripping plots, and plenty of colorful, interesting characters.
The Rings Of Power (2022-Present)
The Rings of Power builds up to the gritty battles and heroic endeavors that leave many fans in awe of the fantasy genre. While Vikings certainly has an added degree of realism in its run, the two series may find themselves sharing many fans as the years go on.
House Of The Dragon (2022-Present)
The Game of Thrones prequel series, House of the Dragon, has kept fans engaged throughout its first season with compelling new characters and gripping plot twists that restore everything that was great about its parent series, returning audiences to the fantasy world of Westeros as the Targaryens approach civil war.
Much like Game of Thrones itself, House of the Dragon is built for the hardcore fan of the fantasy genre, with medieval battles and political intrigue moving its first season along at a clip. Vikings follows in a quite similar manner, making the two series certainly seem as though they are cut from the same cloth.
The Wheel Of Time (2021-Present)
The Wheel of Time contains the same general setting as Vikings, including characters who fight for survival against unbeatable odds. While the former series may not have the same level of blood and gore as the History Channel hit, The Wheel of Time might be better suited for viewers looking for cleaner fun.
Knightfall (2017-2019)
Knightfall aired for two seasons on the History Channel, depicting the final days of the Knights Templar in Medieval Europe. Combining history with mystical folklore and doses of Arthurian legend, Knightfall was a series canceled far too soon.
In many ways, Knightfall is the 14th-century counterpart to Vikings, depicting a warrior class that must fight for survival in a changing world. The series, though not as popular as Vikings, contains quite similar themes therein, making it a perfect companion piece to the Norse warriors’ hit series.
Vikings: Valhalla (2022-Present)
After the bittersweet conclusion of Vikings with its sixth season, the History Channel treated viewers to yet another dip into the world of the hit series with the spinoff project, Vikings: Valhalla. The sequel series follows events set a century after the event of the original show, as the Age of Vikings begins to wane in Europe.
For fans who weren’t quite ready to say goodbye to Vikings, Valhalla offers yet another intriguing glimpse into the culture of the infamous Norse warriors. The series has been a hit among fans of the original show, with a second season already on its way, expected to release sometime in 2023.
