Thorfinn, the son of one of the Vikings' most renowned warriors, is among the best fighters in Askeladd's mercenary group, a remarkable achievement for someone of his age. However, Thorfinn isn't driven by the promise of plunder. His true motivation is to avenge his family’s tragedy by defeating Askeladd in a fair duel. Though not yet skilled enough to achieve this, Thorfinn remains committed to his quest for vengeance, spending his youth with the mercenaries, refining his combat skills amidst the war-loving Danes, where killing is merely another form of pleasure.
One day, when Askeladd learns that Danish prince Canute has been taken hostage, he hatches an ambitious plan that will determine the next King of England and drastically change the lives of Thorfinn, Canute, and himself. Set in 11th-century Europe, "Vinland Saga" unfolds a bloody epic in an era defined by violence, madness, and injustice, offering paradise for the battle-crazed and hell for those who endure it.
"Vinland Saga" was awarded the Grand Prize in the Manga Division at the 13th Japan Media Arts Festival in 2009. It also won the 36th Kodansha Manga Award in the General category in 2012, with mangaka Makoto Yukimura accepting the award dressed in full Viking attire. The series has been published in English by Kodansha Comics USA in 2-in-1 hardcover omnibuses since October 14, 2013. This release includes Makoto Yukimura's "Sayonara ga Chikai no de" ("For Our Farewell Is Near") spread across the first five volumes. Additionally, it has been published in French by Kurokawa since January 15, 2009; in Brazilian Portuguese by Panini Comics since February 2014; in Spanish by Planeta Cómic since October 21, 2014; and in Polish by Hanami since January 2017.
An animated crossover between "Vinland Saga" and "Ponkotsu Quest," titled "Ponkotsuland Saga," was released on October 24, 2015.