Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord Beta Update 1.3.0

TaleWorlds has released the large beta update 1.3.0 for Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord. To activate it, you need to switch to the beta branch of the game on Steam. However, the developers warn that compatibility with old saves is not guaranteed, and the version itself may contain bugs and stability issues.

1.3.0 is one of the biggest updates in Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord. The main innovation is the stealth system, which allows prison escapes and covert operations to capture enemy strongholds. NPCs have become smarter, reacting to noise and movement, noticing the bodies of allies, or becoming suspicious of strange behavior. Their vigilance depends on various factors: they see objects below eye level better and react worse to those above. Darkness and shadows help to remain unnoticed, while areas illuminated by torches make the hero vulnerable. Tall grass and dark corners can be used for cover, and crouching further reduces the chance of being detected.

The AI system now works on the basis of four states: “Neutral”, “Cautious”, “Searching”, and “Alert”. To distract guards, you can throw objects or create noise, but not all enemies respond to such tricks. Stealth attacks deal increased damage, and certain types of weapons allow attacking while crouching, both in melee and ranged combat. The effectiveness of stealth also depends on the developed parameter “Roguery” — it affects attack power, movement speed, and noise level.

Disguise system

Another innovation is the disguise system. It allows exploring cities undercover, but any suspicious action — sudden movement, showing a weapon, or trying to hide — increases the suspicion level. If this indicator reaches a critical point, the guards begin an investigation. If discovered, all guards switch to combat readiness, and then you need to escape.

New diplomatic possibilities

The update also added new diplomatic mechanics. Kingdoms can now form alliances for one in-game year, with each side being able to have up to two allies. Trade agreements work in the same way. In addition, players now have the option to negotiate with enemy settlements if nobles are present there.

New content and expansion

Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord has also received a lot of new content. The game introduced ranged weapons — slings, which can be used together with a shield. The battle system received the mechanics of morale and retreat, adding more tactics. In addition, up to one hundred random events can now occur in the game, affecting the hero’s characteristics, skills, troop status, resources, and gold.

The developers also reminded about the first expansion, War Sails, which will add naval battles and a new race — the Nords. Initially, the release was planned for June 2025, but it was postponed to autumn.