This article provides three proven methods to bypass the frustrating clan tier limit in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord. If you’re tired of being stuck at a low clan tier and unable to progress, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to overcome this hurdle and unlock the full potential of your clan. This includes legitimate gameplay mechanics, strategic planning, and understanding the underlying game systems.
The most straightforward, and often the most rewarding, way to increase your clan tier is through strategic gameplay. This involves a multifaceted approach that focuses on increasing your clan’s renown and influence.
Participate in Tournaments for Renown
Tournaments are a fantastic early-game source of renown. Winning a tournament can provide a significant boost to your renown, propelling you closer to the next clan tier. Not only do you earn renown, but you also gain valuable experience for your character and companions, along with potentially lucrative rewards like horses and weapons. Focus on improving your combat skills, particularly in mounted combat, as many tournaments involve jousting. Look for tournaments in prosperous cities, as they tend to offer better prizes.
My experience has shown that focusing on polearm and riding skills early on significantly increases your tournament win rate. The reach of the polearm allows you to strike enemies before they can get close, and high riding skill improves your maneuverability. Don’t be afraid to use practice arenas to hone your skills before entering a tournament.
Win Battles and Sieges for Renown and Influence
Engaging in battles, especially against larger forces, is a reliable way to earn renown. The more enemies you defeat, and the more challenging the encounter, the more renown you’ll gain. Sieges offer an even greater opportunity to accumulate renown and influence, particularly if you’re leading the assault or defense. Successfully capturing or defending a castle or town can significantly boost your clan’s standing.
Understanding troop composition is crucial for winning battles. Experiment with different unit types to find what works best for your playstyle and the enemy you’re facing. Don’t underestimate the power of archers in sieges; they can inflict heavy casualties on defenders before your infantry even reaches the walls. I’ve found that a balanced army with strong infantry, archers, and cavalry is the most effective in the long run.
Complete Quests for Renown and Relationships
Completing quests, especially those offered by nobles and influential figures, can provide a steady stream of renown and improve your relationships with other clans. Strong relationships can lead to beneficial alliances and trade agreements, which further contribute to your clan’s prosperity. Pay attention to the quest requirements and choose quests that align with your strengths and resources. Some quests may require you to engage in combat, while others may involve trading or diplomacy.
I’ve learned that investing time in building relationships with powerful lords can pay off handsomely later on. A good relationship can make it easier to recruit them to your kingdom or negotiate favorable peace treaties. Don’t neglect the smaller quests either; they can provide a valuable source of income and renown in the early game.
Effective clan management is crucial for sustained growth and progression. This involves carefully managing your resources, companions, and settlements.
Choose the Right Culture
The culture you choose for your character and clan in Bannerlord 2 has a significant impact on your gameplay experience. Each culture has its own unique bonuses, troop types, and strategic advantages.
For example, the Vlandians excel in heavy cavalry, making them formidable on the open battlefield. The Battanians are masters of archery and guerilla warfare, while the Sturgians boast strong infantry and naval prowess. Choosing a culture that aligns with your preferred playstyle can give you a significant edge in combat and diplomacy. Experiment with different cultures to find one that suits your strategic preferences.
Delegate Responsibilities to Companions
Companions are essential for managing your clan’s affairs and expanding your influence. Assign them roles such as party leaders, caravan masters, and governors to delegate responsibilities and free up your time. Each companion has unique skills and attributes, so choose their roles carefully.
For example, a companion with high scouting skill is ideal for leading a scouting party, while a companion with high steward skill is well-suited for governing a settlement. Investing in your companions’ skills and equipment can significantly improve their effectiveness and contribute to your clan’s overall success.
Invest in Workshops and Caravans for Income and Influence
Workshops and caravans are reliable sources of income and can indirectly contribute to your clan’s influence. Workshops produce goods that can be sold for profit, while caravans transport goods between cities, generating trade revenue. Choose workshop locations carefully, considering the local resources and demand for goods. Protect your caravans from bandits and rival clans to ensure their profitability.
Here’s a quick example of workshops and their resources:
| Workshop Type | Resources | Location Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Smithy | Iron Ore | Towns near iron ore deposits |
| Brewery | Grain | Towns with fertile farmland |
| Weavery | Cotton/Flax | Towns with cotton/flax production |
I’ve found that investing in workshops early on can provide a steady stream of income that allows you to finance your army and expand your operations. Caravans are riskier, but they can generate even higher profits if managed carefully. Diversify your investments to mitigate risk and maximize your returns.
While I typically advocate for ethical gameplay, understanding and, in some cases, exploiting certain game mechanics can provide a shortcut to increasing your clan tier. However, be aware that these methods may be considered cheesy or exploitative by some players, and they may be patched out in future updates.
“Cheesing” Tournament Renown
Some players have discovered ways to exploit the tournament system to quickly accumulate renown. This typically involves save-scumming (reloading a save after a loss) or manipulating the tournament brackets to ensure an easy victory. While effective, these methods can detract from the overall enjoyment of the game and may not be sustainable in the long run.
Focus on easy targets
Hunting looters and small bandit parties, even if it feels repetitive, provides a reliable source of renown, especially in the early game. Prioritize battles where you have a significant advantage, as this minimizes casualties and maximizes your renown gain per engagement. As your clan grows stronger, you can gradually take on more challenging opponents.
I personally prefer to avoid these methods, as they feel like cheating and can make the game less rewarding. However, if you’re desperate to increase your clan tier quickly, they may be worth considering. Just be prepared for the possibility that these exploits may be fixed in future updates. Remember, playing the game as intended is usually the most fun and fulfilling way to progress.
By strategically combining these approaches, you can effectively overcome clan tier limits and unlock the full potential of your Bannerlord 2 campaign. Remember to adapt your strategies to the ever-changing political landscape of Calradia and always be prepared for unexpected challenges.
Here are some frequently asked questions about clan tier limits in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord: