Bannerlord Child Development: When Does Your Heir Grow Up?
In Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, managing your family and heirs is a key part of securing your legacy and continuing your dynasty. One of the most frequently asked questions by players is, "When does my child grow up?"
Understanding the stages of child development in Bannerlord can help you plan your strategies and ensure your lineage remains strong.
The Timeline of Bannerlord Child Development
Birth to Toddler
When a child is born in Bannerlord, they are immediately part of your family. However, don't expect them to join you in battle just yet!
For the first few in-game years, children are essentially non-participants in your adventures. They are growing and learning, but their contributions to your clan are minimal during this stage.
Early Childhood
After about 2-3 in-game years, your child transitions from a baby to a toddler. They still won't be taking up arms or managing fiefs, but it's an important phase where their potential future skills begin to develop.
Although you can't directly influence their growth during these early years, it’s a good time to start thinking about their education and training.
Adolescence
Between the ages of 5 and 6, children in Bannerlord enter adolescence. This period is crucial as it is when you can start to guide their development more actively.
Adolescents begin to exhibit the traits and skills they will carry into adulthood, so consider this the perfect time to lay down the foundation for their future roles.
Teenage Years
The teenage phase, starting around 10 years old, is when you really see significant growth. Teenagers in Bannerlord can start to engage in limited activities.
Although they still can't join your party for combat, they can begin to gain experience and develop their skills in a more focused way.
This is the time to decide whether you want them to be warriors, diplomats, or traders.
Adulthood
At around 18 years old, your child becomes an adult. They are now fully capable of joining your party, leading their own troops, managing fiefs, and contributing to your clan's power.
This stage marks the culmination of years of growth and training, and your child is ready to take on significant responsibilities.
Training and Education
Focused Skill Development
While children and teenagers can't participate in battles, you can still influence their skill development. Make use of companions with high skills to mentor your children.
For example, a companion with high tactics or leadership can train your child in those areas, setting them up for success in adulthood.
Role Models
Having skilled companions and clan members act as role models for your children can also positively impact their growth.
Children learn from the environment around them, so ensuring they are surrounded by capable leaders and warriors can inspire them to follow similar paths.
Strategic Importance
Securing Your Legacy
Children are essential for ensuring your clan's legacy. As Bannerlord is a game of dynasties and long-term strategy, having heirs means your campaign can continue even if your main character falls in battle.
Planning for your children’s growth and training them properly ensures your legacy remains intact.
Expanding Influence
As your children grow into adults, they can help expand your clan's influence. They can manage fiefs, lead armies, and undertake diplomatic missions. Their contributions can significantly boost your clan's power and help you achieve your overarching goals.
Tips for Effective Child Management
Early Planning
Start planning for your child's future as soon as they are born. Think about the roles you want them to play in your clan and begin laying the groundwork for their training and development.
Balanced Development
Ensure your children receive a balanced education. While combat skills are crucial, don't neglect other areas like trade, engineering, and diplomacy. A well-rounded heir can be more versatile and useful in various situations.
Utilize Companions
Use your companions effectively to mentor your children. Assign companions with high skills to take on the role of tutor for your heirs, ensuring they gain valuable knowledge and experience.
Conclusion
Long-Term Strategy
Managing your children in Bannerlord is a long-term investment that can significantly impact your campaign’s success.
By understanding the stages of their growth and actively planning their development, you can create powerful heirs who will carry on your legacy and help you dominate Calradia.
So, keep an eye on those little ones, train them well, and watch them grow into the leaders of tomorrow!
