Vlandia Kingdom Guide

The Kingdom of Vlandia is a feudal superpower located on the western coast of Calradia. Descendants of overseas adventurers who were granted land by the Empire in exchange for military service, the Vlandians have now established a kingdom of their own, ruled by King Derthert. They are modeled after early medieval Norman and Western European feudal states, prioritizing heavy cavalry and crossbows.

Culture Bonuses

Vlandia's culture bonuses are focused on military efficiency and kingdom stability, making them a top choice for aggressive expansionists:

• Mercenary Income: 20% more income from serving as a mercenary. This is excellent for the early game when you are building your renown and bankroll.

• Production: +5% production in villages. This subtle bonus helps the economy of your fiefs, especially in the resource-rich western lands.

• Recruitment: 20% more upgrade XP to troops from battles. This is arguably their strongest trait, allowing you to train elite Banner Knights much faster than other factions can train their noble troops.

For a detailed breakdown of all factions, check our Calradia Kingdoms Overview.

Geography and Key Settlements

Vlandia occupies the fertile western lands, bordering the Western Empire to the east and Battania to the northeast. Their territory is protected by the sea to the west and mountain ranges to the east, giving them a relatively secure backyard.

Major Towns:

• Pravend: The capital, nestled in the northwest.

• Sargot: A key strategic city often contested by the Empire.

• Jaculan: A trade hub in the south, famous for its olive presses.

• Galend: A coastal city with strong trade connections.

The abundance of olives and grapes makes Economy and Trade Basics vital for Vlandian lords.

Military Strength

Vlandia is renowned for its heavy cavalry. The Vlandian Banner Knight is arguably the strongest shock cavalry in the game, capable of devastating charge damage.

• Cavalry: Best Cavalry Units lists Banner Knights at the top. They utilize couched lances for one-hit kills.

• Ranged: Vlandian Sharpshooters are the best crossbowmen in Calradia. They carry pavise shields on their backs, giving them superior protection during reloads, and they pack a punch against armored targets.

• Infantry: Their infantry (Voulgiers, Sergeants) is solid but not exceptional. Their primary role is to hold the line while the cavalry flanks.

For a full breakdown of their roster, see the Vlandia Troop Tree guide.

Strategy Guide

Playing as Vlandia

Focus on a "Hammer and Anvil" tactic. Use your Sharpshooters and Sergeants to form a sturdy line (the Anvil) to pin the enemy. Then, lead your Banner Knights in a wide flank to smash into the enemy rear (the Hammer).

When Starting Your Own Kingdom, Vlandian lands are a great place to start due to their defensible position. However, managing your vassals is key, so brush up on Kingdom Management.

Fighting Against Vlandia

• Counters: Bring spears and pikes to stop their cavalry charges. Sturgia spearmen or Imperial Menavliatons work well.

• Terrain: Fight them in forests or villages where their horses lose momentum.

• Sieges: Their Sharpshooters are deadly in siege defense, so bring plenty of shields. Read our Siege Warfare Fundamentals for more tips.

Conclusion

Vlandia is the embodiment of medieval feudalism. With the best heavy cavalry and powerful crossbows, they are a force to be reckoned with on the open field. Whether you join them or conquer them, respecting the charge of the Banner Knight is the first rule of survival in the West.