"Mount & Blade: The Era of Tournaments" is an expansion for the well-known computer game that combines genres such as RPG, Action, and Strategy. The expansion was developed by the Turkish studio TaleWorlds. The worldwide publisher is Paradox Interactive, with the publishers in Russia being "1C-SoftClub" in collaboration with Snowball Studios. The expansion was released in late March/early April 2010.
Thanks to "The Era of Tournaments", the original game received numerous updates that significantly diversified the gameplay. The main change was the addition of a full multiplayer mode, which thousands of players had eagerly anticipated since the release of the original game. Multiplayer in "Mount & Blade: The Era of Tournaments" supports battles with up to 64 players simultaneously, although this later turned out to be far from the limit. In some mods, for example, battles with two hundred players or more became available. The multiplayer mode introduced various combat modes (a total of 7 types), where players could not only fight but also earn money for victories, buy equipment, and much more.
Single-player mode also underwent significant changes. Now, players can acquire loyal companions and then try to establish a new kingdom with their help. It is worth noting that in "Mount & Blade: The Era of Tournaments", players can manage their lands as they see fit. If a vassal demonstrates unwavering loyalty to their suzerain (the player), they can be granted land holdings, thereby increasing their loyalty even further. Additionally, a king can marry a fair lady, host knightly delegations, and much more.
A modified combat mechanics were introduced in "Mount & Blade: The Era of Tournaments", changing the system of blocking and parrying attacks. Furthermore, players can pick up arrows and throwing knives from the ground, and throwing weapons can be used not only at long ranges but also at close distances. Overall, the combat system became more realistic, which delighted fans of the game.
The artificial intelligence in "Mount & Blade: The Era of Tournaments" was significantly improved compared to the original game. Enhancements to the AI occurred both in diplomacy and combat. For example, unable to withstand a fierce assault from enemies, soldiers may cowardly flee the battlefield. If a king is displeased with a vassal's behavior, they can confiscate all their lands and expel them. Conversely, if a vassal becomes utterly frustrated with their suzerain, they have every right to seek the protection of another, more noble and kind ruler.
What else is new in "Mount & Blade: The Era of Tournaments"? Of course, the introduction of the Saraniid Sultanate as a fully-fledged sixth faction should be noted. But that's not all! "The Era of Tournaments" also features significantly improved graphics, and the detailing of soldiers and equipment has reached a qualitatively new level.