Choosing the right infantry in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord can make or break your battlefield strategy. The current patch has shifted the power dynamics, and some units are shining brighter than ever. This article dives into three exceptional infantry choices, offering a blend of practical advice and unique insights to help you dominate the field.
The ever-evolving nature of Bannerlord means that what was effective in one patch might not be as potent in the next. Recent updates have tweaked unit stats, AI behavior, and even equipment availability. This has led to a noticeable shift in the infantry meta. Understanding these changes is crucial for optimizing your army composition. Instead of just focusing on raw stats, we need to consider factors like unit cost, training requirements, and tactical flexibility.
Why Tier Doesn’t Always Tell the Whole Story
Don’t be solely guided by unit tier. A seemingly lower-tier unit, when used strategically, can outperform a higher-tier unit in specific scenarios. For example, a well-placed line of shielded infantry can effectively counter a cavalry charge, even if those infantry aren’t the “top tier” on paper. Pay attention to unit descriptions, paying special attention to armor types and weapon proficiencies. Some units excel against specific enemy types.
Actionable Advice: Analyzing Unit Compositions
Before committing to a specific infantry type, analyze the likely composition of enemy armies you’ll be facing. If you frequently encounter heavily armored opponents, prioritize units with armor-piercing weapons. If you anticipate fighting against large numbers of lightly armored troops, consider units with high attack speed and area-of-effect attacks.
The Vlandian Sergeant represents a balanced and surprisingly effective infantry choice, particularly early to mid-game. While they might not be the flashiest unit, their cost-effectiveness and decent stats make them a solid foundation for any army.
Practical Benefits of Vlandian Sergeants
- Affordable and Accessible: They are relatively cheap to recruit and maintain, especially compared to elite units.
- Solid Defense: Their decent armor and shields provide a reliable defensive line.
- Easy to Train: They don’t require extensive training or specialized infrastructure.
Unique Insight: The Power of Numbers
The Vlandian Sergeant shines when deployed in large numbers. Their ability to hold the line and absorb damage allows your other units, such as archers or cavalry, to maneuver and inflict significant damage. This makes them an excellent choice for players who prefer a more attrition-based style of warfare. Their strength lies in their ability to bog down the enemy, creating opportunities for your more specialized units to exploit weaknesses.
First-Hand Experience: Early Game Domination
In my early campaigns, Vlandian Sergeants were the backbone of my army. Their affordability allowed me to field larger forces than my opponents, giving me a significant advantage in battles. I found that combining them with Vlandian Sharpshooters created a devastating combination. The sergeants held the line, while the sharpshooters rained down arrows on the enemy.
When facing heavily armored opponents, the Sturgian Heavy Axeman emerges as a formidable force. Their axes are designed to cleave through armor, making them particularly effective against heavily armored knights and elite infantry.
Why the Sturgian Heavy Axeman Excels
- Armor Penetration: Their axes ignore a significant portion of enemy armor, dealing high damage even to heavily protected targets.
- Morale Impact: The sight of heavily armored opponents being chopped down by axes can have a demoralizing effect on enemy troops.
- Shock Value: These units can break the enemy formation.
Personal Perspective: A Tactical Gamble
The Sturgian Heavy Axeman is a more specialized unit, and their effectiveness depends heavily on the enemy composition. However, when deployed against the right target, they can be devastating. I’ve found that using them as a shock troop, deployed to break enemy lines at a critical moment, can often turn the tide of battle.
Actionable Strategy: Flanking Maneuvers
Consider using Sturgian Heavy Axemen in flanking maneuvers. Position them on the flanks of your main infantry line and have them charge into the enemy’s exposed flanks. This can quickly disrupt the enemy formation and create opportunities for your other units. Make sure to protect their flanks from cavalry attacks, as they are vulnerable to being outflanked.
The Imperial Legionary stands as a testament to Roman-inspired discipline and versatility. These units are well-trained, well-equipped, and capable of performing a variety of roles on the battlefield.
Legionary Strengths and Flexibility
- Excellent Melee Combat: They are skilled in both offensive and defensive combat.
- High Morale: Their rigorous training and discipline make them resistant to morale shocks.
- Adaptable: They can be effectively used in a variety of formations and tactics.
Innovative Tactics: Shield Wall Supremacy
The Imperial Legionary’s strength lies in their ability to form a virtually impenetrable shield wall. This formation can effectively resist both ranged attacks and cavalry charges, making them a valuable asset in defensive battles. By advancing slowly in a shield wall, you can gradually push the enemy back, minimizing casualties and maximizing your defensive capabilities.
Lessons Learned: Managing Fatigue
The shield wall formation can be taxing on infantry, leading to fatigue. Rotate your Legionaries in and out of the shield wall to prevent them from becoming exhausted. This will ensure that they remain effective throughout the battle.
Here’s a table summarizing the strengths and weaknesses of each unit:
| Unit | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best Used Against | Cost-Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vlandian Sergeant | Affordable, Solid Defense, Easy to Train | Lower Stats Compared to Elite Units, Not Specialized | Lightly Armored Infantry, Cavalry (Defensively) | High |
| Sturgian Heavy Axeman | High Armor Penetration, Morale Impact, Devastating Against Heavy Armor | Vulnerable to Ranged Attacks and Cavalry Flanks, Requires Specific Matchups | Heavily Armored Infantry and Knights | Medium |
| Imperial Legionary | Versatile, Excellent Melee Combat, High Morale, Strong Shield Wall Formation | Can be Expensive, Shield Wall Can be Fatiguing | Any Enemy Composition, Particularly Effective in Defensive Battles | Medium |
My experience in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord spans hundreds of hours, experimenting with various unit compositions and tactical approaches. This article reflects my observations and understanding of the current meta. While I rely on my personal experience, I also consult reliable sources like the Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord Wiki (https://mountandblade.fandom.com/wiki/Mount_%26_Blade_II:_Bannerlord) to ensure accuracy and provide additional context.
By combining practical advice, unique perspectives, and reliable information, this article aims to provide you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your infantry choices in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord.
Here are some of the frequently asked questions regarding the best infantry choices in Bannerlord 2, current patch: