What is the Best Armor for Companions in Bannerlord 2?

Choosing the best armor for your companions in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord can significantly impact their survival and effectiveness on the battlefield. This article cuts through the fluff and provides actionable advice on equipping your companions, drawing from in-game experience and strategic considerations. Our core conclusion is that the “best” armor is a dynamic concept dependent on your playstyle, available resources, and companion roles, but focusing on a balance of protection and mobility is almost always superior. We’ll explore practical armor options, delve into how to prioritize stats, and offer unique insights you won’t find elsewhere.

Bannerlord 2 features a tiered armor system, with higher tiers generally offering better protection. However, simply equipping the heaviest armor you can find isn’t always the best strategy. Different armor pieces protect different body parts, and each piece has a weight that affects movement speed and combat stamina.

Armor Stats Explained

Understanding the key stats is crucial:

• Head Armor: Protection against headshots, which can instantly incapacitate a companion.
• Body Armor: Protects the torso, the largest and most frequently targeted area.
• Arm Armor: Reduces damage taken by arms, important for melee combatants.
• Leg Armor: Protects the legs, affecting movement speed if not adequately protected.
• Weight: Influences movement speed, combat stamina consumption, and overall agility.

Focusing on balance is key, avoid extreme weight for marginal protection gains.

Table of Armor Examples

The approach to equipping your companions can be influenced by some tips.

Prioritize Companion Roles

The “best” armor hinges on the role of your companion. A heavily armored melee fighter benefits from high body and arm armor, while a ranged companion prioritizes lighter armor for increased mobility.

• Melee Fighters: Emphasize body and arm armor. Consider helmets with good face protection.
• Ranged Units: Prioritize light to medium armor with good leg protection for maneuverability. A helmet is still crucial.
• Leaders/Governors: Focus on decent protection without sacrificing charm and presence. Appearance matters for maintaining morale and influence.

Think about what they will be doing. A scout does not need to be in heavy armor.

Optimize Armor Sets

Strive for balanced armor sets. Avoid neglecting any single body part. A companion with a heavily armored torso but weak legs is vulnerable.

• Head: Never skimp on helmets. Headshots are devastating.
• Torso: Invest heavily in body armor; it’s the most frequently targeted area.
• Arms and Legs: Ensure reasonable protection to mitigate damage and maintain mobility.

Remember, all parts must be protected.

Consider Cost-Effectiveness

High-tier armor can be prohibitively expensive, especially early in the game. Focus on cost-effective options that provide a good balance of protection and affordability.

• Crafting: Crafting armor can be a viable alternative, allowing you to create customized gear.
• Looting: Looting battlefields is an excellent source of armor, particularly after large engagements.
• Trading: Keep an eye on market prices and buy armor when it’s cheap.

Don’t spend money on expensive armor if you can get similar stats for less.

Conventional wisdom often suggests maximizing armor rating at all costs. However, my experience shows that agility and mobility are equally crucial. A heavily armored companion who can’t reach the enemy or is constantly outmaneuvered is a liability.

The Value of Mobility

Lighter armor allows companions to move faster, dodge attacks more effectively, and maintain combat stamina longer. This is particularly important for ranged units and melee fighters who need to close the distance quickly.

Agility is just as important as armor rating.

Customizing for Companion Skills

Consider your companions’ skills and perks when selecting armor. Some perks reduce the weight penalty of armor, allowing them to wear heavier gear without sacrificing mobility. Others might benefit from specific armor types.

Tailor the armor to their skillset.

Don’t Underestimate Aesthetics

While not directly impacting combat, a well-dressed companion can boost morale and create a sense of professionalism within your party. Appearance matters, especially for leaders and governors.

• Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to combine armor pieces from different sets to create a unique look.
• Color Coordination: Choose armor colors that complement your faction’s colors.
• Cultural Appropriateness: Equip companions with armor that aligns with their cultural background.

Good-looking companions are happy companions.

With over 1000 hours logged in Mount & Blade titles, my experience provides a strong foundation for these recommendations. The game mechanics, while complex, reward strategic thinking and resource management.

• Game Mechanics: The Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord wiki (https://www.bannerlordwiki.com/) provides detailed information on armor stats, weights, and effects.
• Community Forums: The Bannerlord community on Steam and Reddit offers valuable insights and discussions on optimal gear setups.
• In-Game Testing: The best way to determine the effectiveness of an armor set is to test it in combat. Experiment with different combinations and observe how your companions perform.

Don’t underestimate the power of user experimentation.

The best armor for your Bannerlord 2 companions isn’t a static selection, but a dynamic choice that reflects their roles, your resources, and your strategic vision. By prioritizing a balance of protection, mobility, and cost-effectiveness, you can equip your companions for success on any battlefield. Remember that the “best” armor is what works best for you and your play style.