What is the Best Armor in Kingdom Come: Deliverance?

The simple answer: there isn’t a single “best” armor set in Kingdom Come: Deliverance. The ideal armor depends heavily on your playstyle, the situation, and your character’s skills. However, if we’re aiming for maximum overall protection and effectiveness in most combat scenarios, the combination of the Nurembergian Cuirass, Augsburg Gauntlets, Magdeburg Chausses, and a Bascinet with a visor often tops the list. This setup offers excellent defense against all types of attacks without sacrificing too much mobility.

Understanding Armor in KCD

Kingdom Come: Deliverance features a complex armor system that realistically simulates how different types of armor protect against various weapons. Understanding these mechanics is crucial for choosing the right gear. Key factors include:

• Coverage: The percentage of the body covered by the armor.
• Defense Values: Separate defense scores against blunt, stab, and slash damage.
• Weight: Heavier armor reduces stamina and agility.
• Charisma Penalty: Some armor can negatively impact your interactions with NPCs.
• Repair: The ease and cost of maintaining the armor.

Therefore, choosing armor isn’t just about stacking the highest defense numbers. It’s about finding a balance that suits your character’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the challenges you anticipate facing. An agile character might prefer lighter, less restrictive armor, while a heavily armored knight benefits from maximum protection at the expense of speed.

Top Armor Pieces and Sets

While a “best set” is subjective, certain pieces consistently rank high for their excellent protection and relative availability. Here’s a closer look:

Nurembergian Cuirass

This chest piece is widely regarded as one of the best in the game. Its high defense values against all damage types, especially stab, make it invaluable for surviving tough encounters. It’s relatively easy to acquire and repair, further increasing its appeal.

Augsburg Gauntlets

These gauntlets provide excellent protection for the arms without significantly hindering dexterity. They offer a good balance between defense and maneuverability, essential for both offense and defense.

Magdeburg Chausses

These leg armor pieces offer superior protection for the legs. Neglecting leg protection is a common mistake, as it leaves you vulnerable to crippling blows that can significantly reduce your combat effectiveness.

Bascinet with Visor

A helmet is paramount for head protection. The Bascinet with a visor is a popular choice due to its excellent coverage and high defense values. The visor offers crucial protection against headshots, which can instantly kill your character. Many variations exist offering similar protection with slightly altered appearances.

Honorable Mentions

• Zoul Armor Set: A complete set offering balanced protection and a distinctive appearance. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a consistent look.
• Milanese Brigandine: Provides excellent protection, especially against slashing damage.
• Warhorse Armor: Gained through DLC; offers good protection but might not be the absolute best for all situations.

Beyond the Stats: Considering Your Playstyle

Armor choice is intrinsically linked to your combat style.

• Aggressive Players: May favor lighter armor allowing for faster attacks and dodges. Consider prioritizing lighter brigandines and gambesons for mobility.
• Defensive Players: Benefit from heavy armor that allows them to absorb blows while waiting for an opening. Focus on plate armor with high defense values.
• Archers: Need armor that protects without hindering their aiming ability. Lighter options are preferable to maintain accuracy and mobility.

Obtaining High-Tier Armor

Acquiring the best armor often involves:

• Completing Main and Side Quests: Many quests reward valuable armor pieces.
• Looting High-Level Enemies: Bandit camps and heavily armored knights are prime sources of quality gear.
• Purchasing from Armorers: Skilled armorers in major cities offer the best selection, but their prices can be high.
• Winning Tournaments: Tournaments offer a chance to win valuable armor sets.

FAQs: Kingdom Come: Deliverance Armor

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about armor in Kingdom Come: Deliverance:

1. Does armor weight affect stamina?

Yes, armor weight significantly impacts stamina. Heavier armor drains stamina faster during combat and movement.

2. Does armor affect stealth?

Yes, heavy armor negatively affects stealth. It increases noise levels, making it harder to sneak past enemies.

3. How do I repair my armor?

You can repair armor at a grindstone (for metal armor) or with a tailor/leatherworker (for clothing and leather armor). You can also learn the maintenance skill to repair your own armor.

4. What’s the difference between plate armor and chainmail?

Plate armor offers higher protection against all damage types but is heavier and more expensive. Chainmail provides decent protection, especially against slashing attacks, and is lighter than plate.

5. Is it worth wearing a helmet with a visor?

Absolutely! A helmet with a visor provides crucial protection against headshots, which can instantly kill you.

6. What is the best way to level up my armor skill?

The armor skill levels up by taking damage. The more damage you absorb, the faster your skill increases.

7. Does the condition of my armor affect its protection value?

Yes, damaged armor provides less protection. Regularly repair your armor to maintain its effectiveness.

8. Can I enchant or upgrade armor in Kingdom Come: Deliverance?

No, you cannot enchant or upgrade armor in the base game. However, some mods might offer this functionality.

9. What’s the importance of leg protection in KCD?

Leg protection is vital as unprotected legs are vulnerable to crippling blows that significantly reduce your combat effectiveness by slowing you down.

10. How do I acquire the Zoul armor set?

The Zoul armor set is acquired primarily through quests and exploration, often found in chests and on specific enemies.

11. Which armor offers the best protection against arrows?

Generally, plate armor offers the best protection against arrows, especially when combined with a helmet featuring a visor.

12. Does charisma influence the price of armor when buying or selling?

Yes, higher charisma can result in better prices when buying and selling goods, including armor.

13. What are the best perks related to armor in KCD?

Key armor-related perks include those that increase armor durability, reduce stamina drain, and improve repair skills.

14. Is it possible to wear too much armor?

Yes, wearing too much armor can make you encumbered, significantly reducing your movement speed and stamina regeneration.

15. How does visibility affect stealth in Kingdom Come: Deliverance?

Visibility plays a significant role in stealth. Wearing dark armor, such as black brigandine, can help you blend into shadows and remain undetected. However, remember the noise penalty from heavier armor will still be a factor.