In the vast realm of Calradia, where war rages and kingdoms rise and fall, companions play a crucial role in the destiny of any aspiring lord or lady. Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord features a diverse cast of companions, each with unique skills, backstories, and aspirations. From skilled warriors and cunning rogues to master craftsmen and enigmatic wanderers, these companions can significantly enhance your gameplay experience and help you forge your own legend. As you embark on your epic journey through Calradia, it is essential to carefully select the companions who will accompany you on your quest for glory and conquest.
When choosing companions, consider their individual proficiencies and how they complement your own strengths and weaknesses. If you excel in combat, you may seek companions who possess exceptional combat skills or healing abilities. If you prefer diplomacy and trade, companions with high Charisma or Mercantile skills can prove invaluable. Furthermore, each companion has their own unique backstory and motivations, which can lead to intriguing interactions and influence the unfolding narrative. As you travel together, you will build relationships with your companions, unlocking new dialogue options and special abilities.
The best companions in Bannerlord are those who not only possess exceptional skills but also share your values and ambitions. They will stand by you through thick and thin, aiding you in battle, providing sage advice, and contributing to the prosperity of your kingdom. Whether you seek skilled warriors to bolster your armies, cunning rogues to infiltrate enemy territory, or master craftsmen to enhance your economy, there is a companion in Calradia who can fulfill your needs. Embark on your adventure, forge alliances with these extraordinary individuals, and together, shape the destiny of Calradia.
The Ultimate Squad: Top 10 Companions in Bannerlord
1. Silvind: The Skilled Archer
Silvind stands tall as the unrivaled archery master of Bannerlord. With an exceptional skill level of 125 in archery, he is a lethal marksman capable of taking down enemies with precision from afar. His prowess with a bow grants him unmatched accuracy and a devastatingly high attack rating, making him an invaluable asset in any tactical encounter.
Silvind’s exceptional archery abilities are complemented by his formidable prowess in scouting and tracking. With a skill level of 100 in scouting, he can effectively detect hidden enemy units, allowing your forces to plan and execute ambushes with deadly efficiency. Additionally, his 75 skill in tracking empowers him to follow even the faintest of trails, leading you to hidden treasures or evading pursuers with ease.
Silvind possesses a well-rounded personality, making him an agreeable companion both in battle and at camp. His loyalty is unwavering, and his passion for archery inspires all who train under him. He is a true master of the bow, a formidable addition to any army, and a beacon of precision and accuracy on the brutal battlefields of Calradia.
| Skill Level in Archery | 125 |
| Skill Level in Scouting | 100 |
| Skill Level in Tracking | 75 |
His unwavering loyalty, combined with his exceptional combat skills, makes him the ideal choice for any aspiring warlord seeking to conquer the vast realms of Bannerlord.
As your closest confidant, Silvind will provide invaluable counsel and support, ensuring that your leadership decisions are informed by his deep knowledge and unwavering resolve.
Companions for Every Playstyle: Melee, Ranged, and Siege
Melee Companions
Melee companions are ideal for leading your troops into the thick of battle. They excel in close-quarters combat and can take on multiple enemies simultaneously.
- Monchug: A skilled swordsman with high morale and leadership skills.
- Aserai Master Archer: A formidable archer with impressive accuracy and agility.
- Khuzait Khan’s Guard: A well-armored and loyal companion with excellent defense and siege proficiency.
Ranged Companions
Ranged companions provide invaluable support from afar, taking out enemy archers and infantry from a safe distance.
- Ambusher: A stealthy assassin with high ranged attack and ambush skills.
- Fians Champion: A sharpshooter with incredible accuracy and damage potential.
- Forest Bandit: A cunning archer with bonuses to movement speed and concealment.
| Ranged Companions | Accuracy | Damage |
|---|---|---|
| Ambusher | 70 | 20 |
| Fians Champion | 90 | 25 |
| Forest Bandit | 80 | 22 |
Siege Companions
Siege companions specialize in breaching enemy fortifications and decimating enemy siege engines. They possess high engineering skills and can repair your own siege equipment.
- Imperial Engineer: An expert in building and repairing siege engines.
- Battanian Fian Master: A skilled archer with bonuses to siege damage.
- Sturgian Veteran Spearman: A sturdy infantryman with excellent defense and siege proficiency.
Loyalty and Skills: Finding the Perfect Match
In Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, companions play a crucial role in your army and your personal life. With over a dozen unique companions to choose from, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and storylines, finding the perfect match for your playstyle is essential.
Loyalty
A companion’s loyalty is a measure of how likely they are to leave your party. High loyalty companions will rarely leave, while low loyalty companions may abandon you at any moment. Loyalty is affected by several factors, including your relationship with the companion, their personality, and the actions you take in the game.
Skills
Each companion has a unique set of skills that they can use to support you in battle and in other aspects of the game. Some companions are skilled warriors, while others are better at diplomacy or trade. When choosing companions, it is important to consider their skills and how they will complement your playstyle.
Character Development
As you travel with your companions, they will gain experience and level up. This will allow them to improve their skills and learn new abilities. Some companions also have unique character development quests that can unlock new dialogue options and storylines. By investing time and effort in your companions, you can build strong relationships and create a loyal and formidable team.
| Companion | Loyalty | Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Aserai Horseman | High | Riding, Athletics, Polearms |
| Khuzait Khan’s Guard | Moderate | Archery, Athletics, Horseback Riding |
| Sturgian Veteran Warrior | Low | One-Handed Weapons, Two-Handed Weapons, Shields |
Recruiting the Elite: Where and How to Locate the Best Companions
Locating the Hidden Gems: Taverns and Rumours
Taverns are a hotbed of information exchange, where you can often overhear whispers about skilled mercenaries or experienced warriors. Engaging in conversations with the locals can lead you to a pool of potential recruits who may have exceptional abilities or rare skills. Additionally, paying attention to rumours circulating in the region can provide valuable clues about the whereabouts of sought-after companions.
Scouting the Frontier: Villages and Outposts
Venturing into villages and outposts can also yield promising candidates. These settlements often house local experts, such as hunters with exceptional tracking skills or blacksmiths with unparalleled craftsmanship. By interacting with the community, you may uncover hidden talents or discover individuals who are eager to join your cause.
Navigating the Courts: Lords and Ladies
Courts of lords and ladies are frequented by a diverse range of individuals, including skilled warriors and erudite scholars. Attending feasts and engaging in diplomatic discussions can provide opportunities to meet potential companions who possess noble bloodlines, powerful abilities, or extensive knowledge.
The Merchant’s Network: Towns and Harbours
Towns and harbours are hubs for trade and commerce, attracting people from all walks of life. Merchants often have networks that extend beyond their immediate vicinity, and they may be privy to information about skilled mercenaries or experienced warriors who are seeking employment. By establishing connections with merchants, you can gain access to exclusive information and the chance to recruit exceptional individuals.
Hiring the Best: A Comparative Overview
| Taverns | Villages | Courts | Merchants | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reach | Localized | Limited | Selective | Extended |
| Quality | Variable | Local expertise | Noble lineage | Skilled mercenaries |
| Availability | Abundant | Moderate | Infrequent | Occasional |
Upgrading Your Companions: Leveling, Skills, and Perks
Leveling
Companions level up through combat and non-combat activities. Combat leveling is more efficient, but non-combat activities can help your companions develop specific skills faster.
Skills
Companions have a wide range of skills, from combat abilities to social skills. Upgrading their skills costs gold, which can be earned through trading, questing, or combat.
Perks
Perks are passive bonuses that enhance a companion’s abilities. Each level, companions gain a point that can be used to unlock a perk. Perks are categorized into three types:
Leadership Perks
These perks enhance your companion’s ability to command troops and inspire them to fight better.
Combat Perks
These perks improve your companion’s combat abilities, making them more effective in battle.
Steward Perks
These perks enhance your companion’s ability to manage your party and improve your overall efficiency.
| Perk | Effect |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Increases the maximum number of troops your companion can command. |
| Tactics | Improves your companion’s ability to outmaneuver enemies in battle. |
| Sword Mastery | Increases your companion’s damage with one-handed swords. |
| Logistics | Reduces the cost of traveling and replenishing your party’s supplies. |
| Trade | Improves your companion’s ability to negotiate prices when trading goods. |
The Power of Diplomacy: Using Companions to Influence the Game World
Companions in Bannerlord are not just skilled warriors; they can also play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Calradia. By leveraging their unique diplomatic abilities, players can influence factions, forge alliances, and even sway the course of wars.
Negotiation Skills
Companions with high negotiation skills can effectively resolve conflicts and broker peace deals. They can influence lords to join their faction, persuade armies to retreat, and secure favorable trade agreements.
Persuasion
Persuasive companions excel at swaying the opinions of others. They can convince factions to support their cause, rally troops to their banner, and inspire loyalty among followers. Their words have a potent effect on the hearts and minds of those they encounter.
Influence
Companions with high influence can exert their authority on the game world. They can establish themselves as leaders, gain control of fiefs, and even establish their own kingdoms. Their influence extends beyond their direct entourage, shaping the political dynamics of the realm.
Crafting Alliances
Diplomatic companions can forge strategic alliances with other factions. They can negotiate pacts, secure non-aggression treaties, and establish trade routes. These alliances provide players with access to new resources, reinforcements, and diplomatic leverage.
Averting Wars
Skilled diplomats can avert wars through negotiation and mediation. They can work to resolve disputes, defuse tensions, and prevent conflicts from escalating. By promoting diplomacy, they help maintain stability and peace in Calradia.
Shaping the Game World
The diplomatic abilities of companions give players unprecedented power to influence the political landscape of Bannerlord. By carefully selecting and utilizing their companions, players can shape alliances, avert conflicts, and ultimately determine the fate of Calradia.
| Companion | Negotiation | Persuasion | Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elacrai | 9 | 7 | 10 |
| Shireen | 10 | 8 | 9 |
| Fiana | 7 | 10 | 8 |
The Role of Background: How Companions’ Past Affects Their Abilities
The companions in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord are not merely nameless soldiers; they each have their own unique background and story that shapes their abilities and personalities. These backgrounds can provide valuable insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and how they can best be utilized on the battlefield.
Early Life
A companion’s early experiences can have a significant impact on their later life. For example, those who grew up in harsh environments may be more resilient and adaptable, while those who received a formal education may have a greater understanding of tactics and strategy.
Family Lineage
The family a companion comes from can also influence their abilities. For instance, a companion descended from a noble family may have received training in combat and horsemanship, giving them an advantage in battle. Conversely, a companion from a more humble background may have learned a trade or craft, which can be useful in camp life.
Military Experience
A companion’s military experience is one of the most important factors in determining their abilities. Those who have served in armies or mercenary companies are likely to be proficient in combat and have a good understanding of military tactics. However, even those without formal military training may have gained valuable experience through skirmishes or self-defense.
Training and Education
The training and education a companion has received can greatly enhance their abilities. Some companions may have received formal training in a particular skill, such as medicine, engineering, or diplomacy. Others may have learned through informal methods, such as reading books or observing others.
Combat Skills
A companion’s combat skills are crucial in any battle. Their proficiency with various weapons, armor, and tactics can make all the difference on the battlefield. Some companions may specialize in a particular type of combat, such as melee, ranged, or cavalry combat.
Leadership and Management
Some companions possess strong leadership and management skills. These companions can be invaluable in commanding troops and managing your army. They can provide guidance, inspiration, and motivation to your soldiers, as well as help you with the day-to-day operations of your army.
Social Skills and Influence
Social skills and influence can be just as important as combat abilities in Bannerlord. Some companions are skilled in diplomacy, persuasion, and negotiation. They can be useful in resolving conflicts, forming alliances, and gaining information. Additionally, companions with a high level of influence can inspire loyalty and obedience from your troops.
Exploring the Wilds: Companions as Guides and Hunters
When venturing into the vast and untamed landscapes of Calradia, the presence of a skilled companion can prove invaluable. These individuals possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can aid you in your explorations.
Guides to Uncharted Lands
Companions who excel as guides can help you navigate unfamiliar territories and avoid potential dangers. They are familiar with local customs and lore, enabling them to provide valuable insights into the people and places you encounter.
Skilled Hunters and Gatherers
Companions who are proficient in hunting and gathering can provide you with a steady supply of food and resources. They can track animals, forage for medicinal herbs, and craft useful items from natural materials.
Camaraderie and Support
In addition to their practical skills, companions also offer camaraderie and support during your journeys. They can engage in meaningful conversations, share stories, and provide moral encouragement when the going gets tough.
8. Jeremus
- Attributes: Strength, Athletics, Tactics
- Skills: Riding, Athletics, Throwing, Two-Handed Weapons
- Expertise: Scouting and Reconnaissance
- Backstory: A former legionary of the Western Empire, Jeremus is a seasoned veteran with a sharp eye for detail and a knack for tracking down information.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Strength | 7 |
| Agility | 6 |
| Intelligence | 3 |
| Charisma | 2 |
The Heart of the Party: Camaraderie and Role-Playing with Companions
In Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, companions are not just disposable units but rather vibrant personalities that enhance the gameplay experience. They offer a diverse range of skills, perspectives, and relationships, fostering camaraderie and role-playing opportunities.
Companions with Unique Backgrounds and Personalities
Each companion in Bannerlord has a distinct backstory, beliefs, and motivations. From the cunning scout Jeremus to the proud warrior Monchug, they bring their own perspectives to the party. Their personalities and interactions create a lively and authentic atmosphere.
Role-Playing Opportunities and Dialogue
Companions actively participate in conversations, offering insights and opinions. Players have the freedom to engage with them, shaping their relationships and gaining a deeper understanding of their characters. Through dialogue, players can influence companions’ loyalty, trust, and combat strategies.
Shared Experiences and Loyalty
As players adventure alongside their companions, they share triumphs, defeats, and challenges. These shared experiences strengthen bonds and foster loyalty. Companions who are treated respectfully and valued will become fierce and dependable allies in battle.
Skill Synergy and Combat Support
Companions possess unique skills that complement each other, allowing players to create a versatile and balanced party. Some excel in combat, while others offer critical support with healing, scouting, or diplomacy. By utilizing their combined abilities, players can overcome even the most formidable adversaries.
Companions with Diverse Skills and Roles
| Companion | Skills | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Monchug | One-handed, Two-handed, Athletics | Frontline Combat |
| Jeremus | Scouting, Tracking, Roguery | Scout and Spy |
| Yana | Medicine, Surgery, Wound Treatment | Healer |
| Mathela | Diplomacy, Charm, Persuasion | Negotiator and Diplomat |
| Istana | Polearm, Riding, Athletics | Cavalry Support |
Beyond Companionship: Companions as Lords and Merchants
In Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, companions are not just loyal followers but also valuable assets beyond combat. Players can appoint them as lords to manage their fiefs or send them on trade missions to generate additional income.
Companions as Lords
Appointing a companion as a lord grants them control over a fief. They will collect taxes, recruit troops, and defend the fief from attacks. Choosing a companion with high Stewardship and Military skills is crucial for effective lordship.
Companions as Merchants
Companions can also be sent on trade missions to buy and sell goods. They will travel between towns, purchasing items at low prices and selling them at higher prices. The profit generated from trade missions can supplement the player’s income and provide additional funds for army maintenance.
To achieve maximum profitability, consider sending companions with high Trade and Intelligence skills on trade missions. Additionally, investing in trade perks and establishing trade routes with favorable market conditions can significantly increase the profits.
Companion Traits and Skills for Trade
| Trait | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Enterprising | Increases trade profits by 10%. |
| Pragmatic | Reduces trade expenses by 5%. |
| Clever | Increases the chance of finding valuable items during trade missions. |
The following skills also contribute to a companion’s effectiveness as a merchant:
- Trade: Increases the profit margin and reduces expenses.
- Intelligence: Improves the chance of finding valuable items and negotiating better prices.
- Riding: Increases the speed at which the companion travels, reducing the time spent on trade missions.
Bannerlord: Selecting the Best Companions for Your Journey
In Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, companions play a vital role in supporting your leadership and enhancing your capabilities. Selecting the right companions can significantly impact your gameplay experience, enabling you to conquer territories, form alliances, and achieve your strategic objectives. Here’s a guide to help you identify the best companions for your Bannerlord campaign:
Consider their skills and expertise. Companions possess diverse skills and expertise, such as combat proficiency, trade acumen, and medical knowledge. Identify companions who align with your playstyle and complement your strengths. For example, if you prioritize siege warfare, seek companions with engineering skills.
Evaluate their personality traits. Companions also have distinct personality traits that influence their behavior and interactions. Some traits, such as “Valorous” or “Cunning,” can enhance their combat abilities or political influence. Consider the traits that best align with your leadership style and strategic goals.
Recruit from diverse backgrounds. Bannerlord offers a wide range of companions from different cultures and backgrounds. Recruiting companions from diverse backgrounds provides access to unique perspectives, skills, and loyalty bonuses. Aim for a balanced mix of companions to maximize your strategic options.
People Also Ask About Bannerlord Best Companions
What is the best companion in Bannerlord?
There is no definitive “best” companion in Bannerlord, as the ideal choice depends on individual playstyles and preferences. However, some highly regarded companions include Butak, Falx, and Petronius for their combat prowess; Zora for her medicinal skills; and Jeremus for his diplomacy abilities.
How to get companions in Bannerlord?
Companions can be recruited by visiting taverns in towns and villages. You can also encounter potential companions during your travels or as random events. To recruit a companion, interact with them and select the “Recruit” option if they are available.
How to level up companions in Bannerlord?
Companions gain experience and level up by participating in battles and completing quests. Additionally, you can assign them to specific tasks, such as scouting or managing your inventory, to accelerate their development.
