Sieges are some of the most challenging and rewarding encounters in Warband. Capturing a castle or town requires careful planning, a strong army, and often, a high Engineer skill. Defenders have a significant advantage due to fortifications.
Strategy:
- Preparation: Bring a large army, preferably with a good mix of infantry (for climbing ladders/siege towers), archers (to clear walls), and some cavalry (for the eventual mop-up). Ensure you have plenty of food.
- Engineer Skill: A high Engineer skill (either yours or a companion's) allows you to build siege towers or ladders faster, and potentially build better siege engines.
- Starve Them Out: If you have a large enough army, you can simply besiege the location and wait for the garrison to run out of food. This reduces their numbers and morale, making the assault easier.
- The Assault:
- Archers First: Position your archers to fire at enemy archers on the walls.
- Infantry Advance: Send your infantry to climb ladders or push the siege tower.
- Player Role: Lead the charge, clear the walls, or provide ranged support. Focus on eliminating enemy archers and key defenders.
- Breaching the Gate: If you have a siege tower, it will eventually breach the gate, allowing your cavalry to enter.
- Aftermath: Once the defenders are defeated, you can decide the fate of the castle/town. You can loot it, garrison it, or claim it for yourself (if you are a king or claimant).
Sieges are often bloody affairs. Expect significant casualties, especially if you rush in without proper preparation. Patience and good tactics are key.