"I lost the concept of home, until my grandmother took me into these forests" - Trollheim: Gnomes is a survival game from ex-DICE and Paradox devs that channels childhood fairytales

Trollheim: Gnomes is an upcoming survival crafting game based on Nordic folklore that debuted at IGN Fan Fest. The game was developed by ex-Mojang employees who were inspired by Nordic folklore and woodlands during their childhood. One standout feature is that combat is optional, allowing players to gather building materials and craft complex structures at higher elevations, reminiscent of living in a dark-forest condo high-rise.

The main antagonists, the Väsen, are larger than the three-inch-tall gnomes and might attack if provoked, but they can also be befriended through offering food or other needed items. Game director Jojje Dalunde and studio founder Bjorne Larson emphasized that players can accomplish goals through either friendly or hostile approaches, with combat being intentional and not mandatory.

Co-op play and procedural generation add to the game's appeal, as each new game features a procedurally generated Dark Forest. While survival aspects like cold, wetness, and hunger are present, players can craft items like wingsuits for navigation. The game also features stealth elements and a single life bar incorporating health and stamina.

Beyond the game, Trollheim aims to expand its world through books, games, collectibles, film, and lifestyle products. The first transmedia experience, a 288-page book titled "Trollheim: Tale of Sýstir," is available now. While competing in a crowded survival crafting genre, the developers are committed to building out their world.