I love Horse Archery

Hey fellow Bannerlord enthusiasts! I wanted to share my absolute love for one of the most impactful units in Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord – the mighty Vlandian Vanguard. Seriously, if you haven't given these guys a proper try, you're missing out on some serious battlefield dominance. I used to struggle with cavalry charges, but once I figured out how to truly unleash the Vlandian Vanguard, my campaigns completely transformed. What makes the Vlandian Vanguard so special, you ask? Well, for starters, they are heavy shock cavalry, armed with lances, swords, and excellent armor. Their primary role is to deliver devastating charges that break enemy formations, especially infantry lines. I've seen them plow through shield walls like butter, creating massive gaps for my other units to exploit. Their high armor rating means they can sustain a fair bit of punishment too, which is crucial for cavalry that needs to get in deep and stay there. Recruiting them isn’t too difficult; you'll find them as an upgrade path from Vlandian Footmen or Vlandian Recruits in Vlandian territories. Just make sure you invest in your scouting and leadership skills to get those higher-tier units faster. I always prioritize getting a solid core of Vanguards as early as possible. Training them up might take a bit of time, but trust me, it’s an investment that pays off tenfold in battle. Now, for deployment – this is where the magic happens. I usually keep my Vlandian Vanguard on the flanks, ready to charge into the enemy’s side or rear once their main line is engaged. A well-timed charge can rout entire sections of the enemy army in seconds. Remember to use the 'charge' command effectively and try to aim for their less armored units or the flanks of their infantry. Once they've made their initial impact, I often issue a 'follow me' command to pull them back for a second charge, or have them engage in melee if the situation calls for it. Don't leave them stagnant in a melee against spearmen for too long, as even these tough guys can get bogged down. While they are incredibly strong, the Vlandian Vanguard isn't invincible. They are vulnerable to anti-cavalry units like pikemen or well-positioned archers focusing fire. I learned this the hard way by charging head-on into a dense forest of spears! Always scout ahead and try to clear out anti-cavalry threats with your own ranged units or infantry before committing your Vanguards. Keeping a close eye on their morale and health is also key; knowing when to pull them back to regroup can save entire regiments. In my opinion, mastering the Vlandian Vanguard is key to any successful Vlandian playthrough. They're not just a unit; they're a force multiplier. Give them a try, experiment with your tactics, and watch your enemies crumble! Happy campaigning, fellow Lords and Ladies!