How Many Companions Can You Have in Bannerlord 2? A Comprehensive Guide
In Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, your ability to recruit and manage companions is a vital aspect of building a successful clan and dominating the land of Calradia. The number of companions you can have isn’t fixed; it directly correlates with your clan tier. Initially, at clan tier 1, you’re limited to a maximum of four companions. This limit increases as you progress through the tiers, with each upgrade granting you an additional companion slot. The maximum number of companions you can have in Bannerlord 2 is eight.
Understanding Clan Tiers and Companion Limits
The clan tier system is the backbone of your progress in Bannerlord. As you gain Renown, you level up your clan, unlocking new opportunities and benefits. One of the most significant benefits is the ability to recruit more companions. Here’s a breakdown:
- Clan Tier 1: 4 Companions
- Clan Tier 2: 5 Companions
- Clan Tier 3: 6 Companions
- Clan Tier 4: 7 Companions
- Clan Tier 5: 8 Companions
Reaching clan tier 5 is therefore crucial if you aim to maximize your companion slots and command a formidable force.
Why Companions Matter
Companions are more than just extra soldiers; they are crucial for various roles within your clan. They can be skilled leaders of their own parties, effective governors of your fiefs, or invaluable assets within your main party, fulfilling essential roles like scout, engineer, surgeon, and quartermaster. Choosing the right companions with the appropriate skills is essential for the success of your campaign. Understanding which companions are best suited for each of these roles is vital.
Finding and Recruiting Companions
Companions can be found wandering around towns and cities throughout Calradia. They typically reside in taverns and have unique names and backgrounds. When you encounter a potential companion, you’ll need to pay a fee to recruit them to your party. This fee varies depending on their skills and background.
Managing Your Companions
Once you’ve recruited companions, it’s vital to manage them effectively. This includes:
- Equipping them with appropriate gear: Ensure your companions have the right weapons, armor, and horses to maximize their effectiveness in combat.
- Assigning roles: Determine which roles your companions are best suited for, whether it’s leading a party, governing a fief, or filling a vital role in your main party.
- Leveling up their skills: Companions gain experience through combat and other activities, so make sure they are actively participating in tasks that will improve their relevant skills.
Maximizing Your Companion Potential
To get the most out of your companions, consider the following strategies:
- Focus on diverse skill sets: Recruit companions with a wide range of skills to cover all your needs.
- Train them consistently: Regularly engage your companions in activities that will improve their skills and help them reach their full potential.
- Provide them with opportunities for advancement: Give your companions command positions and other opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and gain experience.
Companions, especially when serving as party leaders, may have their parties called up to serve as part of larger armies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Companions in Bannerlord 2
1. Can I dismiss a companion?
Yes, you can dismiss a companion at any time by speaking to them and selecting the “Leave my service” option. However, keep in mind that dismissing a companion may lower your relationship with them, making it harder to recruit them again in the future.
2. What happens if a companion dies?
If a companion dies in battle or from other causes, they are permanently removed from your party. Consider using the “disable death” options in settings if this is a serious concern for you.
3. Can companions get married?
Yes, once you make your companion into a lord, they start their own clan, and then some of them marry. However, you cannot directly marry them off yourself.
4. Can I marry a companion?
No, you cannot marry companions. You can, however, marry other lords and ladies in the game to form alliances and strengthen your clan.
5. What are the best skills for a companion to have?
The best skills for a companion depend on their role. For party leaders, leadership, tactics, and riding are essential. For governors, stewardship is crucial. For roles within your main party, consider skills like scouting, engineering, medicine, and trade.
6. How do I increase a companion’s skills?
Companions increase their skills by performing relevant activities. For example, a companion serving as a scout will gain scouting experience as your party explores the map. They also gain skill experience as they do combat.
7. Can companions lead caravans?
Yes, companions can lead caravans, which can be a profitable way to generate income. However, caravans are vulnerable to bandits, so make sure your companion has decent combat skills and a strong escort.
8. How do I assign a companion to a role (e.g., governor)?
To assign a companion to a role like governor, go to the town or castle that you wish to appoint a governor to. Speak with the current governor (if any) and from there you can replace them with the companion you choose. Not just any companion is good for being a governor. It is important to select a companion with a high steward skill.
9. What is the best way to find companions?
The best way to find companions is to visit taverns in different towns and cities. Companions will often be found drinking and conversing in taverns. Also, be sure to check the encyclopedia to determine where to find the particular companions you want.
10. How do I know if a companion is right for my party?
Consider their skills, personality, and background. Some companions have traits that make them better suited for certain roles or tasks.
11. What is the maximum party size a companion can lead?
The maximum party size a companion can lead depends on their leadership skill and clan tier. Higher leadership skill allows them to command larger parties. Leadership skills increase over time as the companion fights and succeeds.
12. Can I give companions fiefs?
Yes, you can give companions fiefs, which will make them lords and allow them to raise their own armies. This can be a useful way to expand your influence and control over Calradia. If you do this, be sure to provide them with resources and support them.
13. What are the benefits of having companions in my main party?
Companions in your main party provide valuable bonuses and skills that can improve your party’s effectiveness in combat, exploration, and other activities. Each companion also provides a role.
14. Are there any unique companions in Bannerlord 2?
Yes, there are several unique companions in Bannerlord 2 with interesting backstories and skills. Discovering and recruiting these unique companions can add depth and flavor to your campaign.
15. How does Renown affect my clan tier and companion limit?
Gaining renown increases your clan tier, which directly impacts the number of companions you can recruit. Focusing on activities that generate renown, such as winning battles, completing quests, and participating in tournaments, is essential for expanding your companion roster.
By understanding the mechanics of the clan tier system and the importance of managing your companions effectively, you’ll be well-equipped to build a powerful clan and conquer the land of Calradia in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord. For further insights into the educational aspects of gaming, explore resources such as those provided by the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. Games like Bannerlord offer players opportunities to develop skills that can be beneficial in real-world scenarios.