The borders of Calradia have officially expanded into the open ocean. Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord has released its major War Sails expansion alongside the substantial v1.3.4 update on PC and consoles. This dual release introduces functional naval combat, a new Viking-inspired faction, and a long-awaited rework to the game's stealth systems.
The Sea is No Longer Safe
For years, the oceans in Bannerlord were just impassable blue textures on the campaign map. War Sails changes the strategic landscape by turning the seas into active battlegrounds. This isn't just about auto-resolving battles on water; Taleworlds has implemented a physics-based naval combat system where wind direction and wave intensity dictate the flow of engagement.
You can now command a fleet drawn from 20 new ship types, utilizing mechanics that feel distinct from land battles. Ramming speed is a viable tactic, but the real draw is the boarding phase. Locking ships together effectively creates a floating siege map, allowing you to unleash your infantry on the enemy deck while siege engines rain fire from the rigging. This adds a layer of verticality and environmental hazard that the plains of Calradia lack.
Enter the Nords
Fittingly, the introduction of naval mechanics heralds the arrival of the Nords. Long-time fans of the franchise know them as the axe-wielding infantry powerhouses from Warband, and their inclusion here bridges a significant lore gap. As a new faction, they bring their own culture, cosmetics, and a specialized troop tree that excels in the new boarding actions. If you're looking to carve out a kingdom, their arrival offers a perfect aggressive starting point for a coastal conquest run.
How does Patch v1.3.4 change the meta?
While War Sails requires a purchase, the simultaneous v1.3.4 patch brings critical changes to the base game that might be even more impactful for veteran players. The standout feature is a complete overhaul of the Stealth and Disguise mechanics. Previously, sneaking into enemy settlements was often a coin toss that resulted in immediate capture. The new system refines detection logic, making rogue playthroughs and prison breaks far more viable and consistent.
The patch also addresses one of the community's longest-standing gripes: illogical diplomacy. The War/Peace scoring system has been refined, meaning AI kingdoms should be less likely to declare suicidal wars or refuse peace when they are clearly losing.
Patch v1.3.4 Highlights:
- Stealth Rework: overhauled disguise effectiveness and detection radii.
- AI Logic: Improved War/Peace decision-making scores.
- QoL: Added an optional 'Fast Mode' for quicker campaign map movement.
- Modding: New XML Editor and FMOD support for creators.
To celebrate the launch, the War Sails expansion is currently 10% off, with the base game seeing a 50% discount on select platforms. Whether you are looking to raid the coasts as a Nord jarl or simply want to test the new stealth mechanics in a Calradian city, now is the time to ride forth.