Combat Fundamentals in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord

Mastering the art of war in Calradia requires more than just a large army; it demands a deep understanding of the directional combat system, movement mechanics, and battlefield command. Whether you are dueling in the arena or leading a cavalry charge, these fundamentals will keep you alive.

The 4-Way Directional Combat System

At the core of Bannerlord's melee combat is the directional system. You can attack and block in four directions: Up, Down, Left, and Right.

• Attacking: Move your mouse (or analog stick) in a direction as you press the attack button. An arrow indicator will show your intended swing.

• Blocking: Similarly, you must match the direction of an incoming attack to block it effectively.

Tip: If you are struggling with manual blocking, using a shield significantly widens your block angle, forgiving minor directional errors. However, shields can break, so learning manual blocking is essential for two-handed builds.

Blocking & Parrying

Blocking is your primary defense. While shields are reliable, they slow you down and occupy a hand.

Manual Blocking

Without a shield, you must rely on your weapon.

• Up Block: Protects against overhead swings.

• Down Block: Protects against thrusts.

• Side Blocks: Protects against horizontal slashes.

Chambering

An advanced technique known as "chambering" involves starting an attack in the same direction as an incoming enemy strike just before it hits you. If timed perfectly, your weapon will deflect theirs and continue into a strike. It is high-risk but catches opponents off guard.

Sturgian troops demonstrating a solid defense. Using shields effectively is crucial for survival against archers.

Attacking Mechanics

Not all hits are created equal. Damage depends on weapon type, speed, and hit location.

• Speed Bonus: Moving into your swing increases damage (adding your movement speed to the weapon speed). Moving away reduces it.

• Sweet Spot: Striking with the tip of an axe or the blade of a sword deals maximum damage. Hitting with the handle (close to your body) deals significantly less.

• Thrust vs. Swing: Thrusts are faster and better at piercing armor but harder to land. Swings cover a wide arc and are great for crowd control.

For a deep dive on weapons, check our Weapon Types & Best Loadouts guide.

Movement & Positioning

Your Athletics skill determines your foot speed. High athletics allow you to:

• Outmaneuver heavily armored opponents.

• Backpedal faster than enemies can swing.

• Circle strafe around shield users to hit their exposed backs.

Footwork: Never stand still. Constantly circle your opponent to their non-shield side.

Mounted Combat Basics

Fighting on horseback adds a layer of momentum physics.

• Momentum: Damage is calculated based on relative speed. A head-on collision between two galloping horses results in massive damage.

• Couching Lances: Some lances can be "couched" by pressing X when moving at high speed. This locks the lance in a static position, delivering a one-hit kill against almost anything it touches.

A well-timed cavalry charge can shatter enemy lines. Learn more in our Mounted Combat Techniques guide.

Commanding Your Troops

You are a commander, not just a soldier. Use the function keys to issue orders.

• F1 (Movement): Tell troops to move to a location, follow you, or charge.

• F2 (Facing): Control which way your line faces.

• F3 (Formations): Shield Wall, Circle, Square, or Skein.

Using a Shield Wall (F3 > F2) is essential for advancing under arrow fire, especially against factions like Sturgia or Battania. Learn advanced strategies in our Formations & Battlefield Tactics guide.

Terrain Effects

The battlefield terrain matters.

• Forests: Slow down cavalry significantly. If you are facing a horse-heavy army, retreat to the trees.

• Hills: Archers on high ground have better range and visibility.

• Rivers: Slow down all troops, making them easy targets for ranged units.

Using terrain like forests can neutralize superior enemy cavalry.

Arena & Practice

The best place to learn is the Training Field (accessible from the main map) or city Arenas.

• Practice Fights: Low stakes, good for learning weapon timings.

• Tournaments: High rewards and renown. Check our Arena & Tournament Guide for tips on winning big.

• Drills: Specific routines to improve your skills can be found in Combat Training Drills.

Mastering these fundamentals is the first step to conquering Calradia. Practice your blocking, time your swings, and command your troops with purpose.