Calradia Kingdoms Overview

November 21, 2025

High-level snapshot of all major factions and their playstyles.

Calradia Kingdoms Overview

The continent of Calradia is a land divided. Following the assassination of Emperor Arenicos, the once-great Calradic Empire has fractured into civil war, while barbarian kingdoms press in from every side. Choosing which banner to raise is the first and most important decision you will make.

Calradia Faction Map The political landscape of Calradia is constantly shifting.

The Three Empires

The Empire is split between three rulers, each claiming legitimacy. They share the same troop roster (Cataphracts, Legionaries, Palatine Guards) but differ in leadership and geography.

  • Northern Empire: Led by Senator Lucon. They believe the Senate should choose the Emperor. Located in the north-east, bordering Sturgia and Khuzait.

  • Southern Empire: Led by Empress Rhagaea. They believe in hereditary succession. Located in the south, bordering the Aserai.

  • Western Empire: Led by General Garios. They believe the military should rule. Located in the west, bordering Battania and Vlandia.

For a deep dive, see our Empire Overview.

The Barbarian Kingdoms

Surrounding the Empire are five distinct cultures, each with unique strengths.

Vlandia

Located in the west, Vlandia is a feudal society of heavy cavalry and crossbowmen. They are the ancestors of the Swadians from Warband.

  • Strengths: Best Heavy Cavalry (Banner Knights), Strong Crossbows.

  • Playstyle: Aggressive expansion with heavy shock charges.

Vlandian Banner Knights The Vlandian Banner Knight charge is unstoppable in the open field.

See our Vlandia Guide.

Khuzait Khanate

Nomads from the eastern steppes, the Khuzaits rely on speed and horse archery. They can outmaneuver any other faction on the campaign map.

  • Strengths: Horse Archers (Khan's Guard), Campaign Map Speed.

  • Playstyle: Hit-and-run tactics, kiting enemies to death.

Khuzait Khan's Guard Khuzait Khan's Guards are devastating at range and surprisingly lethal in melee.

See our Khuzait Guide.

Battania

The Celts of the central highlands. They lack cavalry but possess the deadliest foot archers in the game.

  • Strengths: Best Foot Archers (Fian Champions), Forest Movement Bonus.

  • Playstyle: Ambush tactics in rough terrain.

See our Battania Guide.

Sturgia

The Nords of the frozen north. They field heavy infantry with large shields, perfect for holding the line.

  • Strengths: Heavy Infantry (Line Breakers), Shield Walls.

  • Playstyle: Defensive attrition and infantry brawls.

See our Sturgia Guide.

Aserai

The desert warriors of the south. They have a versatile roster and a rich economy due to their secure position.

  • Strengths: Versatile Cavalry, Javelins, High Trade Income.

  • Playstyle: Hit-and-run skirmishing and economic dominance.

See our Aserai Guide.

Summary

KingdomBest UnitBest TerrainDifficulty
EmpireCataphractOpen FieldMedium
VlandiaBanner KnightPlainsEasy
KhuzaitKhan's GuardSteppeEasy
BattaniaFian ChampionForestHard
SturgiaLine BreakerSnowHard
AseraiFaris VanguardDesertMedium

Choose your allegiance wisely, or forge your own path and conquer them all.