Sturgia Kingdom Guide

The Principality of Sturgia is one of the most culturally distinct factions in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord. Inspired by the Viking and Slavic peoples of early medieval Europe, they occupy the frozen north of Calradia. Led by Grand Prince Raganvad, the Sturgians are hardy warriors known for their shield walls and brutal shock infantry.

YouTube thumbnail showing Sturgian themes/map, helping visualize the kingdom lore.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Sturgia is a powerhouse in close-quarters infantry combat but struggles in other areas.

• Strengths: Excellent heavy infantry with large shields, powerful two-handed shock troops (Line Breakers), and a movement speed bonus in snow.

• Weaknesses: Generally inferior archers compared to Battania or Vlandia, and their cavalry, while decent, often loses to Vlandian or Imperial counterparts. Their geography is also spread out, making defense difficult.

Troop Roster Analysis

The core of the Sturgian army is the Shield Wall. Units like the Sturgian Heavy Spearman and Sturgian Heavy Axeman carry massive round shields that provide excellent protection against missile fire. However, the real damage dealers are the Sturgian Heroic Line Breakers. These two-handed axemen can decimate enemy infantry lines if protected by the shield bearers.

Visual ranking of Sturgian troops, useful for the Troop Roster Analysis section.

The Druzhinnik Champion is their noble cavalry unit. While not as devastating on the charge as a Banner Knight, they are heavily armored and surprisingly effective when dismounted, functioning as elite infantry.

For more details on specific units, check out the Sturgia Troop Tree.

Strategy

Playing as Sturgia requires using the terrain to your advantage. Their cultural bonus reduces the movement speed penalty in snow, allowing you to outmaneuver enemies in the northern wastes.

In battle, your goal is to close the distance. Use your heavy shields to absorb arrow fire while advancing. Once close, unleash your Line Breakers to shatter the enemy formation. Avoid open field duels with Khuzait horse archers or Vlandian heavy cavalry if possible; try to force fights in forests or rough terrain where their mobility is hampered.

Depiction of Sturgian army tactics, illustrating shield wall strategies.

If you are looking to expand your kingdom, consider reading our guide on Kingdoms of Calradia to understand your neighbors, or the Siege Warfare Fundamentals to learn how to crack Imperial fortifications.

For economic survival in the north, our Economy & Trade Guide can help you find profitable trade routes for furs and flax.