Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord - War Sails

The main pros of the game

• Naval Warfare: The introduction of naval combat is a significant highlight, adding a new layer of gameplay that includes ship customization, engaging in sea battles, and managing fleets.
• New Faction: The addition of the Nord faction, inspired by Viking culture, offers new troop types and expands the game's lore and world-building.
• Visuals and Atmosphere: Many players appreciate the graphical improvements, including the detailed ship designs and immersive environments.
• Gameplay Variety: The DLC introduces new strategic elements, such as blockading ports and engaging in naval raids, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
• Quality of Life Improvements: Some players noted improvements in gameplay mechanics and the overall feel of the game, making it more enjoyable.

The main cons of the game

• Bugs and Stability Issues: Many users reported numerous bugs, crashes, and performance issues, particularly during naval battles and in the campaign mode.
• High Price Point: Some players feel that the $25 price tag is too high for the amount of content provided, especially when compared to free mods that offer more substantial improvements.
• Repetitive Naval Combat: While naval battles are a new feature, many players found them to be repetitive and lacking depth, with limited tactical options during engagements.
• AI Issues: The AI behavior during naval battles and general gameplay was criticized for being poor and unresponsive, leading to frustrating experiences.
• Narrative and Stealth Mechanics: The storytelling and stealth mechanics were seen as lackluster, with some players expressing disappointment over the new quest designs.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Lack of Depth in Naval Combat: Players expressed a desire for more tactical options and variety in naval engagements, including better ship controls and AI behavior.
• Improvements in Diplomacy and AI: Many users wanted the game to address fundamental issues with diplomacy and AI behavior that have persisted since the game's early access.
• More Engaging Story Content: There was a call for more meaningful quests and storylines that go beyond the basic tutorial missions included in the DLC.
• Better Balance for the Nord Faction: Some players felt that the Nord faction was underpowered and lacked effective unit diversity, making it challenging to enjoy playing as them.

Summary

• In summary, while "War Sails" offers exciting new features and expands the Mount & Blade II experience, it is marred by bugs, some repetitive gameplay elements, and a high price point that has left many players feeling disappointed. The potential for improvement is there, but it appears to be overshadowed by the current execution and stability issues.

Summary generated on: December 22, 2025