Naval warfare remains a much-anticipated feature for Bannerlord 2. While not currently implemented, speculating on how crew training could function allows us to consider strategic depth and resource management in future updates. This article proposes three potential training systems, focusing on practicality and integration with existing game mechanics.
The core challenge lies in adapting Bannerlord’s existing skill and training systems to a naval context. Simply transferring land-based troop trees wouldn’t capture the unique aspects of seafaring. We need systems that reflect the specialized skills required for naval combat and operations.
Method 1: The “Garrison Upgrade” System
This method ties naval crew training to coastal settlements. Think of it as a specialized upgrade to a town or castle’s garrison. The steps involved are straightforward:
- Coastal Settlement Requirement: The settlement must be located on the coast.
- Building Upgrade: Construct a “Naval Training Yard” or similar building within the settlement. This requires resources (wood, stone, perhaps some iron) and a construction time, similar to other settlement upgrades.
- Crew Recruitment: Recruit basic sailors from the settlement’s population, similar to recruiting militia.
- Training Progression: Assign a companion or governor with relevant skills (Tactics, Engineering, perhaps even Stewardship if it affects logistics) to oversee training. Over time, and with sufficient resources (food, tools), the basic sailors will upgrade into more specialized naval units (e.g., Swordsmen, Archers, Marines).
This approach benefits from simplicity and ties directly into Bannerlord’s existing settlement management mechanics. It also encourages players to invest in and defend coastal regions.
Method 2: The “Captain and Crew” Dynamic
This system focuses on individual ship management and the skills of your designated “captain.” This could add a more RPG-like layer to naval operations.
- Ship Acquisition: Purchase or capture ships (cogs, galleys, etc.) from shipwrights or enemy fleets.
- Captain Assignment: Assign a companion (or yourself) as the ship’s captain. The captain’s skills directly influence the ship’s performance and crew training. Skills like Tactics, Leadership, and perhaps a new “Navigation” skill would be crucial.
- Crew Specialization: The captain can then train the ship’s crew into specific roles:
- Sailors: Handle ship movement and repairs.
- Gunners: Operate cannons (if firearms are implemented in the naval update).
- Boarders: Specialize in close-quarters combat and ship capture.
- Training Through Use: Crews gain experience through naval battles and voyages, gradually improving their skills and efficiency. This provides a meaningful incentive to engage in naval activities.
**This method would necessitate the integration of a naval skill tree, adding a fresh dimension to character development.** The success of naval operations would heavily rely on the captain’s skills and the crew’s training.
Method 3: The “Naval Academy” Approach
This is a more centralized, high-investment system. It involves establishing a specific “Naval Academy” in a coastal city. Consider this a kingdom-level project that grants unique benefits.
- Naval Academy Construction: Requires a significant investment of resources and time. This would be a large-scale construction project, potentially requiring specific workshops or master craftsmen.
- Centralized Training: Lords and players can send recruits to the Academy for specialized naval training.
- Tiered Training Programs: Offer different training programs that produce increasingly skilled naval units. These programs might have prerequisites (e.g., recruits must have a certain level of Athletics or Weapon skill).
- Kingdom-Wide Bonus: The Academy could also provide passive bonuses to your kingdom’s naval capabilities, such as increased ship construction speed or improved naval combat tactics.
**The Naval Academy represents a long-term investment, offering substantial benefits but demanding significant resources and strategic planning.** This approach aligns well with kingdom-building aspects of Bannerlord.
My experience with similar strategy games suggests that the most engaging systems are those that provide a blend of player agency and emergent gameplay. Simply clicking a button to train troops is less compelling than a system that requires active management and strategic decision-making.
Lessons from Mount & Blade: Warband
Drawing from my time playing Mount & Blade: Warband, the training system I found most enjoyable was one that incentivized active participation and offered tangible rewards for smart decisions. For example, I recall how effective it was to train troops by leading them in small skirmishes against bandits. **This approach not only honed their combat skills but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and loyalty.** I believe Bannerlord 2 can adopt a similar approach to naval crew training, such as offering experience bonuses for participating in naval patrols or engaging in daring rescue missions.
The Importance of Naval Logistics
Naval crew training should also consider logistics. Supplying a fleet at sea would be different from supplying an army on land. Implementing a supply system where ships need to dock at ports for resupply would add another layer of strategic depth. **Imagine having to protect your supply lines from enemy raiders while simultaneously engaging in naval warfare.**
Unique Commander Perks
I envision unique commander perks that tailor a captain’s skill set to specific naval tactics. For example, a “boarding expert” might grant bonuses to close-quarters combat on ships, while a “navigation master” might enhance ship speed and maneuverability. These perks could dramatically influence the outcome of naval battles and give players meaningful choices when assigning captains.
As a long-time fan of the Mount & Blade series and a player with extensive experience in strategy and RPG games, I have a deep understanding of what makes a compelling and engaging gameplay loop. My insights are based on countless hours spent experimenting with different game mechanics and analyzing their impact on player experience.
My suggestions draw inspiration from historical naval warfare tactics, such as the importance of ship formations and the strategic use of boarding actions. By incorporating these elements into the naval crew training system, Bannerlord 2 can offer a more authentic and immersive experience.
While specific naval warfare mechanics in Bannerlord 2 are still speculative, the core principles of troop training and resource management are well-established within the game. The general concept of settlement upgrades and character skill progression can be found described on the Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord official website and the Mount & Blade Wiki.
The historical context for naval warfare and ship types can be researched on Wikipedia’s Naval Warfare page and related articles on medieval ships.
Developing a robust naval crew training system is crucial for making naval warfare a meaningful and engaging part of Bannerlord 2. The “Garrison Upgrade,” “Captain and Crew,” and “Naval Academy” methods each offer unique approaches to this challenge. By focusing on player agency, strategic depth, and integration with existing game mechanics, TaleWorlds can create a truly immersive and rewarding naval experience.
Will Bannerlord 2 have naval battles?
As of the current version, Bannerlord 2 does not have fully implemented naval battles. However, there is anticipation that naval warfare and related features will be added in future updates.
How can I prepare for naval warfare in Bannerlord 2?
While naval combat isn’t yet available, focusing on improving skills like Tactics, Leadership, and Engineering for your characters can be beneficial. Also, investing in coastal settlements to boost their economy and infrastructure could be a good long-term strategy.
What skills are most important for naval crew training in Bannerlord 2?
Assuming naval crew training gets implemented, skills like Tactics, Leadership, Engineering, and potentially a new Navigation skill will likely be important for captains and trainers. These skills would affect crew effectiveness, ship handling, and overall naval combat performance.