Western Empire

The Western Empire is the militaristic fragment of the shattered Calradic Empire, led by the charismatic and aggressive general, Garios. Unlike the Northern Empire (which favors the senate) or the Southern Empire (which favors hereditary succession), the Western Empire believes that strength alone grants the right to rule. Garios claims that the army—the veterans who bleed for the Empire—chose him as the true successor to Arenicos.

If you believe that the Emperor should be a warrior chosen by his soldiers, the Western Empire is your home.

The Case for Garios: The People's Emperor

In the lore of Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, Garios is painted as a populist. He appeals to the common soldier and the veteran. He despises the bickering senators of the North and the dynastic entitlement of the South. His claim is simple: The Empire is surrounded by barbarians, and only a strong military leader can protect it.

Joining the Western Empire often feels like playing the "Total War" campaign. You are led by a man who is constantly on the offensive, seeking to reclaim lost territory and unite Calradia by the sword.

For a broader look at how the Empire split, check out our guide on the Kingdoms of Calradia.

Geography & Borders: The Danger Zone

The Western Empire occupies the western-central region of Calradia. This position is precarious but rich.

• West: It shares a massive, often shifting border with Vlandia. Vlandian cavalry is the primary threat here.

• North: The dense forests of Battania harbor ambushers that plague Garios's northern settlements.

• East: Constant skirmishes with the other two Imperial factions.

Because of this geography, the Western Empire is rarely at peace. You will be fighting defensive wars to hold Zeonica or Jalmarys one week, and offensive campaigns into Vlandian territory the next.

Troop Analysis: The Iron Fist

The Western Empire shares the standard Imperial troop roster, which is arguably the most versatile in the game. However, Garios's AI tends to favor heavy infantry and heavy cavalry, matching his aggressive personality.

1. Imperial Legionary

The backbone of your army. These are widely considered some of the Best Infantry Units in the game due to their heavy armor and large shields. In a shield wall, they are nearly immovable.

• Role: Anvil. They hold the line while your cavalry flanks.

• Synergy: They work perfectly against Vlandian crossbow fire or Battanian arrow spam.

2. Imperial Elite Cataphract

The ultimate tank on horseback. While Vlandian Banner Knights might have a stronger charge, the Cataphract is armored from head to toe (including the horse). They are incredibly durable in prolonged melees.

• Role: Hammer. Smash them into the enemy rear or use them to counter enemy cavalry.

• Comparison: See how they stack up in our Best Cavalry Units guide.

3. Imperial Palatine Guard

While often overshadowed by the Battanian Fians, the Palatine Guard is a solid archer unit with good armor. They can survive a few hits in a shootout, unlike many other archers.

Strategic Guide: Fighting on All Fronts

Playing as a vassal of the Western Empire requires high stamina. Garios loves to declare war, sometimes on multiple fronts.

Aggressive Expansion

Garios will often take armies deep into enemy territory. You must be prepared for Siege Warfare Fundamentals. Bringing a high Engineering skill is crucial, as you will be assaulting walls more often than defending them.

Countering Vlandia

Your biggest rival is usually Vlandia. Their cavalry is deadly. Use your Legionaries in a Square Formation or Shield Wall to absorb their charge, then flank them with your Cataphracts. Do not try to out-charge them on an open field without superior numbers.

Economy

The Western Empire has rich cities like Zeonica (often a trade hub) and Ortysia. Defending these is critical. If you lose the prosperity of these towns to constant raids, your ability to field elite troops will crumble.

Conclusion

The Western Empire is not for the passive player. It is a faction of constant conflict, driven by a leader who refuses to back down. If you want to command legions of heavily armored troops and conquer Calradia through sheer military might, pledge your sword to Garios. Just don't expect a quiet life.