Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord offers a rich and immersive experience, letting you dive into a medieval sandbox full of battles, politics, and epic quests. One of the first choices you’ll face is selecting a culture for your character.
This decision can shape your entire gameplay experience. Let’s explore the different cultures and help you decide which one suits your playstyle.
Why Culture Matters
Starting Bonuses
Each culture in Bannerlord provides distinct bonuses that can influence your strategy and effectiveness in the game.
These perks can range from increased movement speed to improved trade profits, affecting how you approach various aspects of gameplay.
Role-Playing and Immersion
Choosing a culture isn’t just about bonuses; it’s also about immersion and role-playing. Each culture has its own lore, aesthetics, and vibe, contributing to the overall atmosphere of your campaign.
Your choice can enhance your connection to the game world and your character’s story.
The Cultures of Calradia
Vlandians
Bonus: 20% more experience for troops from battles
The Vlandians are inspired by medieval Western European cultures. They are known for their heavy cavalry and feudal system.
If you love the idea of commanding a powerful cavalry force and leveling up your troops quickly, Vlandians are an excellent choice.
Sturgians
Bonus: 20% less speed penalty from snow
Hailing from the snowy forests of the north, the Sturgians are reminiscent of Norse and Slavic cultures. Their infantry is tough and resilient. If you plan on spending a lot of time in snowy regions or enjoy leading strong infantry units, Sturgians are your go-to.
Empire
Bonus: Construction speed bonus to town projects, wall repairs, and siege engines
The Empire is split into three factions, all inspired by the Roman Empire. They excel in engineering and urban management.
If you see yourself focusing on building and maintaining cities, as well as conducting sieges, the Empire’s efficiency will be beneficial.
Aserai
Bonus: 10% less trade penalty
The Aserai hail from the desert regions and are based on Middle Eastern cultures. Their trading skills and fast-moving desert troops are their strength.
For players who want to amass wealth through trade and enjoy swift hit-and-run tactics, the Aserai are a perfect match.
Khuzaits
Bonus: 25% production bonus to horses
Nomadic warriors from the eastern steppes, the Khuzaits are influenced by Mongol culture. They have exceptional horse archers and a strong cavalry tradition. If you love speed and mobility, and want to dominate the battlefield with fast-moving horse archers, the Khuzaits will suit you well.
Battanians
Bonus: 10% less speed penalty in forests
The Battanians draw inspiration from Celtic and Pictish cultures. They excel in guerrilla warfare and forest combat. If you enjoy ambushing enemies and using the terrain to your advantage, Battanians will provide the tactical edge you need.
Choosing Based on Playstyle
Combat Focus
If your main goal is to excel in battles, consider the Vlandians for their experience bonus, or the Khuzaits for their cavalry superiority. Both offer strong combat-related perks that will help you dominate on the battlefield.
Trade and Economy
For those who want to build a commercial empire, the Aserai’s trade bonuses are unbeatable. You’ll be able to buy low and sell high, amassing wealth faster than other cultures.
Construction and Sieges
If you’re interested in building and managing cities, or conducting sieges, the Empire’s construction bonuses will make your efforts more efficient and effective.
Terrain-Specific Strategies
Choose the Sturgians if you plan on operating primarily in snowy regions, the Battanians for forested areas, or the Aserai if you’ll be traversing deserts frequently. These cultures offer terrain-specific advantages that can be crucial for your campaign.
Final Thoughts: Which Culture Fits You Best?
Ultimately, the best culture for you in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord depends on your personal playstyle and strategic preferences. Whether you want to lead fearsome cavalry charges, dominate the trade routes, or master the art of siege warfare, there’s a culture that aligns with your vision.
Experimenting with different cultures can also add variety to your gameplay experience, offering new challenges and perspectives with each campaign. So, pick a culture, dive into the world of Calradia, and carve out your legend!
May your conquests be glorious and your stories epic!
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