Norland is a complex game with layers of strategy that can be difficult to navigate, especially for new players. At first glance, the game might seem tedious or confusing, leading some to give up prematurely. However, once you understand its intricacies, Norland reveals itself to be a deeply rewarding experience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the common traps players encounter and how to avoid them, ensuring you have a smoother and more enjoyable journey in Norland.
Trap 1: Understanding the Importance of Knowledge Inheritance
Explanation: One of the most crucial aspects of Norland is the inheritance of knowledge, but this is something the game doesn’t explain well, leaving many players frustrated. Knowledge is tied to the lord who acquires it, meaning it won’t be activated unless a lord has learned it. Moreover, if the lord who possesses the knowledge dies, that knowledge is lost, and the related building becomes unusable.
Solution:
- Focus on having a maximum of two lords concentrate on acquiring knowledge instead of spreading it out evenly.
- Be mindful of the age of your lords. They age at 50 (or 60 with longevity knowledge), and losing knowledge due to death or aging can set you back significantly. Therefore, plan for knowledge inheritance carefully.
Trap 2: Managing the Limited Number of Lords
Explanation: Norland limits you to a maximum of six lord members, a constraint that can significantly impact your gameplay if not managed wisely.
Solution:
- Avoid Recruiting Free Lords: It’s more beneficial to raise your own children as lords rather than recruiting free lords. Ignore notifications related to free lords.
- Limit Marriages to One Couple Per Generation: To maximize your lord slots, ensure only one couple marries per generation. This leaves more slots for future lords.
- Prioritize Monogamous Spouses: To avoid complications such as seduction by other characters, choose a spouse with a “monogamy” personality trait. Illegitimate children can cause discord, so it’s best to maintain the bloodline of the original lord’s family.
- Age Gaps Between Siblings: To avoid simultaneous deaths of lord members, plan for at least a 10-year age gap between siblings. This strategy helps maintain continuity in knowledge and power within your family.
Trap 3: Developing Skills Wisely
Explanation: Children in Norland can improve their skills through adult guidance, but the effectiveness of this guidance depends on the adult’s skill level.
Solution:
- Focus on specialized skills early on, considering the roles your lords will play. For example, have them learn skills in pairs, such as “Manners & Persuasion” or “Combat & Command.”
- Avoid spreading skills too thin in the early stages. Instead, concentrate on building a few strong, specialized characters.
Trap 4: The Initial Game Phase is Challenging
Explanation: The beginning of Norland can be particularly tough due to the slow accumulation of knowledge, which is vital for progression.
Solution:
- Focus on accumulating knowledge early, as this will enhance production efficiency, eliminate disadvantages, and accelerate skill acquisition.
- If you find the start-up phase too difficult, consider setting the game to an easier difficulty level until you’re more familiar with the mechanics.
Trap 5: Maintaining Interest Between the Lord and His Wife
Explanation: The interest level between the lord and his wife directly impacts their willingness to have children. If their interest drops, it could affect your dynasty’s growth.
Solution:
- Religious Differences: If there are incompatible religious beliefs, like fanaticism versus atheism, this will negatively impact interest. Regularly check and adjust the church’s doctrine to “Sermons of Doubt” if needed.
- Scars: Scars from battles reduce interest. Use strategies like “Protect the Archers” or “Wait in the Rear” to keep your lords safe during combat.
- Skills & Traits: High manners and the “Beautiful” trait boost interest, while traits like “Ugly” or “Balding” will lower it. Choose spouses wisely to maintain high interest.
- Culture Compatibility: Marrying someone from a different culture can lead to discord. Avoid marrying wives from cultures that historically don’t get along with your own.
Trap 6: Choosing Resources and Territory Wisely
Explanation: Resource management becomes increasingly difficult as the game progresses, especially when resources become scarce.
Solution:
- Prioritize Iron: Always choose iron when specifying a territory resource, as it is essential and will eventually run out. Wood is also crucial, but it can be traded or acquired later in the game.
- Strategic Resource Management: Consider the long-term needs of your territory when choosing between resources like herbs and wood. Both have their benefits, so experiment with different combinations based on your playstyle.
Trap 7: The Challenges of Forming a Vassal State
Explanation: While it may seem enticing to conquer and subjugate other territories, forming a vassal state in Norland is one of the most challenging strategies.
Solution:
- Opt for Alliances: Instead of subjugation, aim to form alliances. If a country refuses your invitation, you won’t be forced into war. This allows you to preserve your soldiers and build a stronger nation over time.
- Patience in Diplomacy: Strengthen diplomatic relations with potential allies and wait for opportune moments to invite them into alliances. Sometimes, waiting for generational changes can open up new opportunities for alliances.
Conclusion:
Norland is a game that rewards patience, strategy, and careful planning. By avoiding the common traps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving and prosperous kingdom. Remember, the key to success lies in knowledge inheritance, wise resource management, and strategic alliances. Happy gaming!