For enthusiasts of blade combat and period storytelling, these seven Netflix productions stand out for their authentic weaponry, choreographed duels, and compelling historical backdrops. Each series offers a distinct perspective on martial traditions from different eras and cultures.
Kingdom (2019–present)
Set during Korea’s Joseon dynasty, this innovative series merges political intrigue with supernatural horror and exquisitely staged sword fights. The combat sequences showcase traditional Korean martial arts alongside the distinctive fighting styles of the era’s military elite. The production’s attention to historical detail extends to the accurate depiction of period weapons including the jangchang spear and hwandudaedo swords.
The Last Kingdom (2015–2022)
This sweeping saga of Viking-age England presents some of television’s most visceral shield wall battles and one-on-one duels. The fight choreography emphasises the brutal efficiency of Anglo-Saxon and Norse combat techniques, with particular focus on seax knives, Viking axes, and pattern-welded swords. The series’ dedication to historical accuracy in its arms and armour has earned praise from medieval warfare scholars.
Barbarians (2020–2022)
Depicting the legendary Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, this German production offers a fresh perspective on Roman-era warfare. The combat sequences highlight the asymmetrical tactics of Germanic tribes against Roman legionaries, featuring authentic recreations of gladius and spatha techniques contrasted with Germanic spear and axe fighting. The show’s attention to archaeological evidence in its weapon designs sets it apart.
Vikings: Valhalla (2022–present)
As a spiritual successor to the original Vikings series, this production amplifies the scale of Norse combat sequences. The battle choreography incorporates recent historical research about Viking-age sword and shield techniques, with particular attention to the use of ulfberht swords and Dane axes. The maritime combat sequences offer particularly innovative depictions of shipboard fighting.
Marco Polo (2014–2016)
This visually stunning series blends Mongol warfare with Chinese martial arts, creating unique hybrid combat sequences. The swordplay draws from traditional wuxia influences while maintaining the distinctive characteristics of Yuan dynasty weaponry. The show’s depiction of curved Mongol sabres and Chinese jian swords demonstrates careful research into period fencing styles.
Rise of Empires: Ottoman (2020–present)
This docudrama hybrid presents the 1453 siege of Constantinople with unprecedented attention to historical detail. The combat sequences contrast Ottoman kilij sabre techniques with Byzantine sword and polearm styles, supported by input from historical fencing experts. The show’s recreation of siege warfare tactics provides context for the era’s close-quarters combat.
Knightfall (2017–2019)
Focusing on the Templar Order’s final years, this series delivers methodically choreographed medieval sword fights. The combat sequences emphasise the fighting styles of 14th-century knights, with particular attention to longsword techniques from period fencing manuals. While taking some dramatic liberties, the show’s depiction of armour physics and sword mechanics maintains a strong foundation in historical European martial arts.
Viewing Recommendations
For those seeking the most technically accurate swordplay, The Last Kingdom and Barbarians offer particularly well-researched combat sequences. Fans of stylised martial arts will appreciate Marco Polo’s wuxia influences, while Kingdom provides a unique fusion of historical drama and horror elements. All seven series demonstrate Netflix’s commitment to elevating historical combat beyond mere spectacle, offering viewers both entertainment and insight into centuries of martial traditions.
These productions collectively represent the current gold standard for historical sword fighting in streaming media, combining entertainment value with increasing attention to authentic martial traditions. Their availability on Netflix makes them accessible to both casual viewers and dedicated historical fencing enthusiasts worldwide.
