Every good army has a leader, followed by a gaggle of seconds-in-command. Not even the most capable leaders can handle an entire army and nation by themselves, so it’s vital to have a group of advisors and combatants to provide additional experience and viewpoints both on and off the battlefield. Here’s how to recruit Companions in Mount and Blade 2: Bannerlord.
How to Recruit Companions in Mount and Blade 2: Bannerlord
In general practice, Companions function similarly to your rank-and-file infantry on the battlefield. You can direct and command them to attack enemies, prioritize utilities, or take up various quests and tasks on your behalf. The big differences are that Companions are static individuals with their own names and backstories, and that they can grow in strength and skill alongside you. Companions can be individually equipped and specialized, becoming invaluable commanders in a tense situation.
Related: How to Create a Kingdom in Mount and Blade: Bannerlord
The only downsides to recruiting Companions are that you can only have so many of them equipped to your side at once and that hiring them costs a proverbial arm and a leg. You’ll want to do your research before hiring a Companion to ensure their skillset is right for you.
You’ve Got a Friend in Me
If you press the N key to pull up your encyclopedia, you can find profiles of all potential Companions in a given village or town under the “Heroes” panel. Anyone whose occupation is “Wanderer” can be hired on as a companion, and you can click their page for information on their skills and history. If you find someone you like, visit the town they’re currently in. Be aware, though, that Wanderers move around on their own time, so they may take off for elsewhere by the time you arrive.
When you arrive in a town, visit the local tavern. You’ll see potential Companions’ portraits in a list on the top-right. If you’re still unsure about who you want working for you, you can chat up the Tavern Keeper for more information on whoever’s milling about.
Click on the portrait of the Companion you’re interested in to strike up a conversation with them. You can ask them for their history if you’re interested, but otherwise, just say “let’s get down to business.” They’ll give you a flat quote for what they charge for their services. If you’ve got the cash on hand, you can pay them upfront, and they’ll officially be in your employ.
Once you’ve hired a Companion, press the C key to bring up the character menu, followed by the Companion’s personal character tab near the top of the screen. You can use this menu to check out their skills, alter their gear, and do pretty much anything else you could do with your own character.
Remember, try to find Companions that specialize in things you aren’t so good at yourself. It can be very beneficial to have a different point of view on the battlefield!
