Exploring the High Seas with Mount and Blade 2: Bannerlord – War Sails
For those weary of navigating treacherous terrains and muddy landscapes, the latest expansion for the acclaimed Mount and Blade 2: Bannerlord, titled War Sails, promises to elevate the gaming experience to new heights—quite literally. This expansion transforms your ground troops into seafaring warriors, enabling them to row into battle when the winds are less than favorable. Players will engage in naval combat from behind ballistae and across the decks of their ships, adding a fresh layer of strategy to the beloved RPG.
In War Sails, players assume command of their flagship, supported by a crew of familiar companions and loyal nobles. The game allows for the deployment of up to eight ships, granting full control over their formations. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, an auto-deploy feature is available, allowing players to set sail without the burden of tactical decision-making. A quick 15-minute voyage can offer a glimpse into this exciting new gameplay, showcased in the latest trailers.
According to developer TaleWorlds, the essence of naval battles lies in “feeling the wind.” Players will quickly learn the importance of managing their sails, although miscalculations may lead to an unexpected return to port. A wind dial, featuring red and green rings, indicates the breeze’s direction, though it’s worth noting that colorblind accessibility options appear to be lacking, potentially complicating matters for some players. For those seeking assistance, a curated list of the best Bannerlord mods may provide some solutions.
When the wind dies down or frustration sets in, players can call upon their oarsmen to propel their ships into or out of combat. Interestingly, players can also join in on the rowing, fostering a sense of camaraderie or simply taking matters into their own hands.
Upon encountering an enemy vessel, each ship operates as an independent unit, allowing players to issue formation commands rather than directing every sailor individually. Alternatively, AI captains can be entrusted with the task of navigating the battlefield, supporting allies, and avoiding collisions. For those with a more aggressive strategy, ramming an enemy ship and boarding its deck is a thrilling option. Combat can also involve launching projectiles from ballistae or engaging in ranged skirmishes with troops positioned on deck.
As players close in on their adversaries, the mechanics of ramming come into play, factoring in speed, angles, and ship weight to deliver a decisive blow. A successful strike could spell doom for the enemy vessel, potentially sinking it in a single maneuver.
The Mount and Blade 2: Bannerlord – War Sails is set to launch on Wednesday, November 26, at a price of .99. For those eager to assemble a formidable crew for their maritime adventures, exploring the best Bannerlord companions can be a strategic advantage. And for players who have exhausted the base game’s offerings, delving into one of the best Viking games may serve as an exciting alternative until the new expansion arrives.
The anticipation surrounding the dev team’s ship-to-ship collisions is palpable, and players are encouraged to share their most memorable moments on the PCGamesN Discord upon the expansion’s release.
