This article cuts through the noise and focuses on the best Bannerlord 2 mods that directly overhaul troop trees. We’ll explore specific mods, discussing their unique approaches, notable units, and how they impact the overall game experience. Get ready to reshape Calradia’s armies.
Vanilla Bannerlord 2, while solid, can feel a little…samey. Each faction has its strengths, but their troop trees often converge on similar unit types, especially in the late game. This is where mods shine.
Mods that alter troop trees provide a breath of fresh air, introducing entirely new units, re-balancing existing ones, and creating vastly different strategic landscapes. They allow you to experience Calradia through a new lens, forcing you to adapt your tactics and learn the strengths and weaknesses of unfamiliar armies.
There are numerous mods available for Bannerlord 2, but these are some of the most impactful when it comes to troop tree modifications.
Calradia Expanded Kingdoms (CEK): A Total Conversion Approach
CEK isn’t just a troop tree mod; it’s a massive overhaul. It introduces a multitude of new factions, each with its own fully realized troop tree.
Unique Factions: From the fierce Varangian Guard to the disciplined legionaries of the Roman Empire, CEK offers a diverse range of cultures to experience.
Detailed Units: Each unit is meticulously designed, with unique equipment, stats, and roles on the battlefield. CEK focuses on historical accuracy and immersive gameplay.
Gameplay Impact: CEK fundamentally changes the strategic landscape of Bannerlord 2. Alliances, rivalries, and warfare are all affected by the introduction of these new power players.
Eagle Rising: A Roman Empire Immersion
Eagle Rising focuses on bringing the Roman Empire to life in Bannerlord 2. While it includes many other features, its troop tree overhaul is a major highlight.
Authentic Roman Units: Experience the might of the Roman legions with historically accurate units, from hastati and principes to legionary cohorts and praetorian guards.
Auxiliary Forces: Eagle Rising also includes auxiliary units from various cultures, adding depth and variety to the Roman armies. These auxiliaries reflect the diverse composition of the historical Roman army.
Specialized Units: The mod introduces specialized units like siege engineers and ballistarii, enhancing the siege warfare aspect of the game.
Realm of Thrones: Immerse Yourself in Westeros
Based on the popular Game of Thrones universe, Realm of Thrones brings the battles of Westeros to Bannerlord 2. Its troop trees are meticulously crafted to reflect the armies of each of the great houses.
House-Specific Units: Each house, such as Stark, Lannister, and Targaryen, has its own unique troop tree with units tailored to their lore and fighting styles.
Elite Units: Expect to encounter iconic units like the Unsullied, the Kingsguard, and the Dothraki, each with its own distinct strengths and weaknesses.
Strategic Implications: Choosing a house to align with in Realm of Thrones has significant strategic implications, as each faction offers a different gameplay experience based on its troop composition. The mod stays true to the source material, offering a truly immersive Game of Thrones experience.
Europe 1100: A Medieval Europe Experience
Europe 1100 aims to accurately represent the various factions and warfare styles of medieval Europe around the year 1100 AD. This includes a complete rework of the troop trees to reflect the historical armies of the period.
Diverse European Factions: Play as various kingdoms and factions, from the Normans and the Franks to the Vikings and the Slavic principalities, each with its own distinct roster.
Historically Accurate Units: The mod meticulously recreates the units of the era, focusing on the equipment, tactics, and social structures of the time.
Grand Campaign: The mod creates a new depth for the game’s grand campaign, as each faction has different strengths and weaknesses and is equipped for their own path to glory.
Having spent countless hours experimenting with these mods, I’ve learned a few key things that I think will be beneficial to you:
CEK’s Learning Curve: While CEK is incredibly rewarding, it has a steep learning curve. The sheer number of new factions and units can be overwhelming at first. I recommend starting with a faction that aligns with your preferred playstyle. If you enjoy cavalry, try the Aserai overhaul. If you prefer infantry, look at the Sturgians.
Eagle Rising’s Tactical Depth: Eagle Rising forces you to think strategically about unit composition. The Roman legions are powerful, but they are vulnerable to certain unit types. Experiment with different formations and tactics to maximize your effectiveness.
Realm of Thrones Immersion: If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, Realm of Thrones is a must-play. The attention to detail is incredible. However, be prepared for a challenging campaign, as some factions are significantly more powerful than others.
Europe 1100 and the importance of realism: Unlike the previous mods that cater to a fantasy setting, Europe 1100 attempts to portray a realistic setting. This includes more diverse units and strategies that can be employed during battles. Experimentation with tactics is critical to be successful in battle.
The best troop tree mod for you depends on your personal preferences.
Here’s a quick guide:
| Mod | Focus | Complexity | Difficulty | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEK | Total Conversion, Factions | High | Medium | Players who want a completely new experience |
| Eagle Rising | Roman Empire | Medium | Hard | History buffs and tactical players |
| Realm of Thrones | Game of Thrones | Medium | Variable | Fans of the books and series |
| Europe 1100 | Medieval Europe | High | High | Players interested in realism |
It’s important to remember that troop tree mods are just one piece of the Bannerlord 2 modding ecosystem. Many other mods enhance the experience by adding new weapons, armor, quests, and more.
Consider combining a troop tree mod with other mods to create a truly customized experience. For example, you could combine CEK with a diplomacy mod to create a more dynamic political landscape.
The Bannerlord 2 modding community is constantly evolving, with new mods being released regularly. It’s an exciting time to be a Bannerlord 2 player, as the possibilities for customization and enhancement are endless. Keep an eye out for new and innovative mods that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Mods like these give players the freedom to create their own unique stories and experiences. These mods allow users to tailor their game to their specific wants and needs.
Bannerlord 2 mods that affect troop trees provide a powerful way to customize and enhance your gameplay experience. Whether you’re looking for a total conversion, a historical immersion, or a fantasy adventure, there’s a mod out there for you. By exploring these mods and experimenting with different combinations, you can unlock the full potential of Bannerlord 2 and create a truly unique and unforgettable gaming experience.
The most important takeaway is to have fun and experiment with different mods to find what works best for you.