Manor Lords combat tips and tricks

Looking to dominate the battlefield in Manor Lords? While this game excels as a medieval city-builder, it also brings Total War-style combat into the mix. You’ll need to manage your units in epic battles against invaders and rival armies to protect your growing town. If you're more accustomed to the city-building aspect and not so much the combat, worry not! Here are 8 essential combat tips to help you achieve victory in Manor Lords.

1. Gear Up Your Troops

An army is only as good as its equipment. Ensure your soldiers are equipped with the best weapons and armor. Upgrade your Burgage Plots to unlock essential workshops like the Blacksmith's Workshop, Joiner's Workshop, Armorer's Workshop, and Fletcher's Workshop. Focus on the Armorer's Workshop to produce helmets, and invest in Advanced Armormaking and Master Armormaking Developmental Upgrades to craft mail and plate armor. This will significantly enhance your troops' defensive stats and survivability.

2. Diversify Your Units

Manor Lords offers various unit types, including elite Retinue soldiers, polearm fighters, spear militia, and archers. A balanced army should include Militia Footmen, Spear Militia, and Archer Militia to cover both melee and ranged combat. Start with Militia Footmen and Archer Militia, and expand your forces with Spear Militia as resources allow.

3. Utilize Your Retinue

Building a Manor allows you to hire a Retinue, the strongest melee fighters in the game. These specialized soldiers can lead your army, flank enemies, and serve as tanks in tough battles. You can recruit up to 12 Retinue units, and building a Garrison Tower can increase this number by another 12. They are invaluable for holding the line and leading charges.

4. Hire Mercenaries

Don't hesitate to spend some of your Treasury on Mercenaries. They are a cost-effective way to bolster your forces without risking the lives of your townspeople. Light Mercenary Infantry and Heavy Mercenary Archers are particularly effective and can supplement your militia forces well.

5. Master Troop Stances

Manor Lords features various Stances to direct your troops in combat. The default is Balanced, but you can switch to stances like Missile Alert to block incoming arrows. For larger battles, use Stand Your Ground to double your melee units' defense or Push Forward for an all-out offensive. Archer Militia should use Shoot at Will, and stances like Spread Out and Give Ground can help reorganize or lure enemies.

6. Flank and Rear Attack

Flanking your enemies and attacking from the rear is a classic strategy that works wonders. Use your melee units to engage the enemy from the front while your archers circle around to attack from behind. This tactic can break enemy lines and create chaos among their ranks.

7. Monitor Morale, Effectiveness, and Fatigue

Keep an eye on your units' Morale, Effectiveness, and Fatigue. High Morale, boosted by a high Approval rating and fighting in home territory, ensures your troops stay in the fight. Effectiveness can be influenced by terrain, weather, and tactical positioning. Managing Fatigue through strategic stance usage and rotating tired units can keep your army in fighting shape throughout the battle.

8. Seize the High Ground

Elevation can turn the tide of battle. Position your troops on higher terrain to receive a High Ground buff, while your enemies suffer a Low Ground debuff. This is particularly beneficial for your archers, who can rain arrows down on enemies from an elevated position.

By implementing these tips, you'll be well on your way to mastering combat in Manor Lords. Equip your troops, diversify your units, and use smart tactics to ensure your town remains safe and prosperous. Happy battling!