Arena & Tournament Guide

Tournaments in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord are more than just a sport—they are a critical early-game engine for renown, gold, and high-tier gear. Whether you are a fresh recruit looking to make a name for yourself or a seasoned warlord equipping your companions, mastering the arena is essential.

Why Fight in Tournaments?

• Renown: Winning a tournament grants significant renown, speeding up your Clan Tier Progression.

• Gold: Betting on yourself each round can net you around 1,500–2,000 denars per win. See Making Money Fast.

• Prizes: The rewards often include noble horses (like the Wadar Hotblood) or high-tier armor that you couldn't afford otherwise.

Regional Tournament Differences

Every culture hosts tournaments differently, reflecting their martial traditions. Knowing what to expect can help you choose where to fight.

• Empire: Expect sword and shield duels, or pilum/shield fights. Balanced and defensive.

• Battania: Two-handed swords and axes. These fights are brutal and fast; one mistake means death.

• Vlandia: Heavy use of couched lances on horseback and crossbows.

• Khuzait: Horse archery and glaives. Mobility is key.

• Sturgia: Axe and shield matches. Very grindy and close-quarters.

• Aserai: Javelins and swords. Watch out for one-shot throws.

For more on weapons, check Weapon Types & Best Loadouts.

Betting Mechanics

Before every round, you have the option to place a wager.

1. Bet Max: Always bet the maximum amount on yourself if you are confident.

2. Odds: The odds decrease as you advance, so the biggest payout comes from betting heavily in the early rounds.

3. Profit: A full betting run can turn a 150 denar investment into a tidy fortune for the early game.

Combat Strategies

1v1 Duels

In a duel, patience is your friend.

• Circle Strafing: Move around your opponent's shield side (usually their left) to strike their exposed back or side.

• Shield Bash: If they are turtling, kick (E) or shield bash (Right Click + E) to break their guard.

• Feints: Wind up an attack from one direction, then quickly switch to another to bypass their block.

Team Fights

• Let Them Fight: In 4v4 or 2v2s, let the AI engage first. Flank distracted enemies for easy kills.

• Protect Your Teammate: If your teammate falls, you'll be outnumbered. Peeling enemies off them can save the round.

See Combat Fundamentals for more tips.

The Rewards: Farming Renown and Gear

The prize pool is determined by the number of nobles participating. More lords = better loot.

• Check the Prize: You can see the prize before joining. If it's a "Wadar Hotblood" or a "Black Heart" axe, it's worth fighting for.

• Companion Gear: You don't need to keep the gear. Winning a high-tier helmet is a great way to armor up your companions for free.

Summary

Tournaments are the safest way to build your character's combat skills and wallet simultaneously. Travel from town to town, check the arena master for ongoing games, and carve your path to glory.