Field of Glory: Kingdoms News

We’re thrilled to announce that the third macrotopic Monumental Architecture of A Lens On - Snapshot has been completely released.

Head over to the playlist [previewyoutube][/previewyoutube] now to catch all the pills about Monumental Architecture.

But that's not all—before we dive into the next chapter, our friend DasTactic is took us on a deep dive into Field of Glory: Kingdoms.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

[h2]War, Sieges, and the Northumbrian Invasion[/h2]

Field of Glory: Kingdoms is a deep grand strategy historical sandbox that richly models myriad aspects of medieval society. Our current playthrough as Wales has been an opportunity to explore these medieval intricacies, drawing inspiration from the YouTube series ‘A Lens On’ presented by Dr. Claire Kennan. The series offers bite-sized insights into medieval life, with recent videos focusing on monumental architecture—especially the construction of cathedrals.
However, in our timeline, Wales remains a petty kingdom on the fringes of civilization. Our settlements are marked by rustic wooden village churches rather than the grand cathedrals of Europe. While early civil projects, such as enhanced road networks, are becoming available, the remnants of Rome’s mighty empire—such as aqueducts and other infrastructure—are found only in larger population centers further east and south.

[h2]War with England and Her Vassals[/h2]

As we continue our campaign, Wales remains locked in a grueling war against England and its vassals: Mercia, East Anglia, and Northumbria. One notable absentee is Wessex, which has chosen not to enter the war. This decision has not gone unnoticed, and tensions have begun to rise between Wessex and England. The rift could play to our advantage in the future.

[h2]The Siege of Hereford[/h2]

Our Welsh army, composed mainly of cavalry, has been besieging Hereford, a key Marcher Lord stronghold in Mercia. However, our force, while numerous, lacks the siege capabilities necessary to bring the fortress down quickly. Hereford’s fortifications are well-maintained, and month after month, we remain encamped outside its walls. Years roll by as our cavalry-heavy force struggles to make headway against the castle’s defenses.

[h2]1066 Approaches[/h2]

As we move toward 1066, many of the historical elements that shaped medieval Europe remain in play within our game’s timeline.

• Harold Godwinson remains the ruler of Wessex, a vassal of England.
  
• Harald Hardrada rules Norway and is currently actively engaged in an invasion of Scotland.
  
• William the Bastard continues to reign over Normandy.
  

However, one key event from history has already diverged. Edward the Confessor, whose death historically triggered the Norman invasion, was killed in battle by Welsh forces at the onset of our war in Mercia. As a result, King Eadric now sits on England’s crumbling throne. He has secured royal marriages with both Wessex and Norway, but without Edward’s death occurring as it did in reality, William of Normandy has no legitimate claim to the English throne. The likelihood of a Norman invasion is now greatly diminished, shifting the balance of power in the British Isles.

[h2]Types of Combat in Field of Glory: Kingdoms[/h2]

Field of Glory: Kingdoms offers a unique approach to combat. Players can choose to resolve battles automatically or export them to Field of Glory 2: Medieval for a full tactical tabletop experience. However, certain battles—such as naval encounters and siege assaults—must be resolved within the base game.

During our live-stream, we explored the mechanics of castle assaults by save-scumming to showcase different outcomes. This illustrated just how crucial proper unit composition is for success:

• Strong infantry must carry the brunt of the assault, as castle defenders receive significant bonuses to their die rolls.
  
• Frontage limitations mean that small garrisons can withstand much larger attacking forces due to the confined nature of castle sieges.
  
• Terrain types play a major role in combat resolution:
  

o Hills and mountains restrict frontage, favoring heavy infantry such as Huscarls.
o Open plains allow cavalry to dominate with flanking maneuvers.

Through these lessons, we see how Wales must adapt its military strategy to overcome England’s defenses.

[h2]The Northumbrian Invasion[/h2]

Our session concludes with an unexpected development—Northumbria launching a large-scale amphibious assault on the northern Welsh coastline.

• The Northumbrians arrive in longboats, weathered but still battle-ready.
  
• A harsh winter blizzard halts their advance, preventing them from immediately attacking our capital.
  
• In response, we reposition our cavalry army, retreating from the Mercian plains to intercept the invaders. However, we are a step too slow.
  
• The Northumbrians overwhelm the weak defenses of Perfeddwlad and establish themselves in the hilly passes, awaiting our counterattack.
  

To illustrate the challenges of attacking in difficult terrain, we simulate a battle where our forces assault the Northumbrians in the hills. The result is a decisive defeat for Wales. The battle’s narrow frontage favors the enemy’s defensive position, making a direct assault nearly impossible without severe losses.
However, this battle would be perfect for playing out in Field of Glory 2: Medieval, where a more precise tactical approach could yield a different outcome. A special video will be uploaded to DasTactic’s YouTube channel in the coming week, showcasing the battle played as a tactical tabletop experience.

[h2]Looking Ahead[/h2]
As we end this session, Wales stands at a crossroads. The siege of Hereford drags on, depleting our manpower, while Northumbria’s invasion threatens our northern borders. With the historical trajectory of England altered, the future remains uncertain. Will Wessex and Norway intervene? Can Wales hold its ground against the might of England’s remaining forces? And what new challenges will arise in this ever-evolving medieval world?

Join us in the next session as we continue to navigate the turbulent landscape of Field of Glory: Kingdoms. And make sure you don’t miss any of the ‘A Lens On’ YouTube series.

We are here with the first episode in our new macro topic, Monumental Architecture.
[previewyoutube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNsB--Md2ko[/previewyoutube]
This series delves into the awe-inspiring world of medieval monumental architecture, uncovering the stories behind the cathedrals and structures that defined an era. From the soaring Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages to the remnants of ancient Roman aqueducts, these episodes reveal the extraordinary feats of engineering, artistry, and community spirit that shaped the built environment of medieval Europe.

Medieval cathedrals were more than places of worship; they symbolized faith and community, with the Gothic style reflecting a society striving for the divine. Their construction required skilled craftsmen and innovative tools like treadwheel cranes, showcasing the era's engineering advancements.

Meanwhile, Europe inherited Roman architectural wonders like aqueducts, which transformed water distribution. Though many decayed during the Middle Ages, their influence persisted, inspiring future innovations and restorations.

Join Dr. Claire Kennan as she unravels the fascinating interplay of faith, technology, and craftsmanship that brought these monumental creations to life. Learn about the lives of the men and women who contributed their labor, artistry, and ingenuity to structures that continue to inspire awe today.

Don’t miss this engaging historical exploration, perfect for a deeper dive into the complexities of medieval life. Check out here the last episodes: YouTube Playlist

BUY FIELD OF GLORY: KINGDOMS NOW:
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1985050/Field_of_Glory_Kingdoms/

We’re thrilled to announce that the second macrotopic Warfare and Fortifications of A Lens On - Snapshot has been completely released. Head over to the playlist (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQrYLOdjwRhQZYBA0KsqsTfk10O8TtxRk) now to catch all the pills about Hierarchies and Livelihood.

But that's not all—before we dive into the next chapter, our friend DasTactic is took us on a deep dive into Field of Glory: Kingdoms.

[h3]Field of Glory: Kingdoms: A Strategic Saga of Medieval Wales[/h3]
Field of Glory: Kingdoms immerses players in a grand strategy experience that intricately models medieval society, balancing layers of governance, warfare, and diplomacy. Each decision ripples across the game, with consequences that might not be felt until years later. A single misstep—such as overextending your authority—can jeopardize your entire kingdom, as demonstrated in this live-stream session featuring Wales.

Alt-History: A New Medieval Timeline
Our playthrough as Wales takes a dramatic turn, diverging sharply from the historical path of 1066. Caught in a heated conflict with Mercia, we find ourselves facing not only Mercia’s forces but also their overlord, England, and allied English kingdoms like Northumbria and East Anglia.
In the previous session, the Welsh army ambushed and decisively defeated the English King, Harold Godwinson, as he marched to join Mercian forces. Harold’s death during the rout shifted the timeline significantly. A new English king, Eadric, has ascended the throne, severing ties with Normandy and diminishing the likelihood of the Norman invasion. Meanwhile, Normandy finds itself embroiled in its own conflict with France, leaving us isolated and in a precarious position.

Manpower: A Kingdom’s Lifeblood
At the outset of this session, Wales faces a dire manpower shortage. The military upkeep has outpaced the recruitment capacity of our small towns and villages. Without enough soldiers to replenish our armies, units risk losing effectiveness and morale.
To address this, we decided to disband a contingent of skirmishing javelinmen, allowing these men to return to their farms and replenish the kingdom’s manpower pool. Long-term, a more sustainable solution lies in shifting the focus of agrarian territories toward urbanization by constructing hamlets and other centralized developments.
This delicate balance between maintaining a standing army and sustaining the kingdom’s economy underscores one of the game’s core challenges: every decision has a cost.

Terrain and Tactical Preparation
In Field of Glory: Kingdoms, terrain is a decisive factor in battles. Each unit type thrives - or falters - depending on the battlefield.

• Welsh Army Composition:
  Our army includes heavy Ostmen infantry, reminiscent of Viking axemen, who excel in open plains but struggle in rough terrain. We also field light and heavy cavalry, which are effective in flanking maneuvers on open ground but poorly suited to forests. Brythonic foot soldiers and skirmishing javelinmen round out our forces but are less effective in close terrain.
  
• Terrain and Battle Frontage:
  Terrain dictates the "frontage" of a battle, determining how many units can engage at once. Open plains, like those near Worcester, allow for a wide frontage of 18 units, including 6 for flanking. In contrast, forests narrow the frontage to 8, eliminating flanking opportunities and favoring defenders.
  This tactical depth forces players to consider not only their army composition but also the terrain of potential battlefields. In this session, our ability to leverage open plains played a crucial role in countering the numerically inferior but highly skilled English forces.
  

The English Threat: Mercenaries and Raids
As 1061 progressed, a small but formidable English army appeared in Mercian territory. Comprised of Norman mercenary knights, English bowmen, and levied peasants, this force posed a significant threat despite its size.

Our strategy was twofold:

1. March our main army from Worcester into Hereford to intercept the English force.
   
2. Disband skirmishers retreating to Wales to preserve manpower.
   

The English force pursued our skirmishers into the Welsh hills, where they clashed with a hastily levied peasant force from our ally, Deheubarth. Despite their inexperience, the defenders managed to hold the line with support from our skirmishers, forcing the English to retreat.

Dynamic Gameplay: Fortifications and Opportunism
One standout feature of Field of Glory: Kingdoms is the dynamic way the game responds to threats. In this session, the people of Powys, sensing the looming danger of the English mercenary army, offered to construct temporary fortifications within a single turn. This reactive building mechanic adds depth and immersion, simulating the urgency of medieval defense.

The Siege of Hereford and Future Prospects
As winter tightened its grip on 1061, our forces laid siege to the fortified city of Hereford. Despite their decimation in prior battles, Mercia’s resilience slowed our progress. The appointed Mercian commander bolstered the city’s defenses, prolonging the siege.
By the session's end, the walls of Hereford remained intact, but the city’s population was starving. Victory seemed inevitable, but the toll on our army and resources could hinder further campaigns.
Looking ahead, our focus will shift southward to the Mercian capital of Gloucester, nestled in dense forests. This terrain will negate many of our army’s advantages, promising a challenging campaign despite the weakened state of both Mercia and England.

Lessons in Strategy and Adaptability
This session highlighted the intricate balance between long-term planning and immediate tactical decisions in Field of Glory: Kingdoms. From managing dwindling manpower to leveraging terrain in battle, every choice carried weight and consequences.
The alt-history timeline created by Harold Godwinson’s death and Normandy’s distractions has opened unique opportunities for Wales—but also left us isolated against powerful foes. As we prepare for the next phase, the importance of resource management, strategic positioning, and adaptability becomes ever more apparent.
In the next live-stream, we’ll conclude the Siege of Hereford and face the daunting challenge of conquering Gloucester. The road ahead is fraught with danger, but with careful planning and a bit of luck, Wales may yet carve out a lasting legacy in this alternate medieval history.

BUY NOW:
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1985050/Field_of_Glory_Kingdoms/

We are here with the first episode in our new macro topic, Warfare and Fortifications.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XcBTrITBGc

These episodes will explore the evolution of warfare and fortifications and tell a story of innovation driven by conflict. Early wooden towers, quick to build but vulnerable, gave way to formidable stone fortresses like Krak des Chevaliers, influenced by lessons from the Crusades and advances in engineering. These fortifications symbolized power and protection, safeguarding growing economic hubs.

Alongside this, siege warfare advanced with engines like catapults and trebuchets. Often built on-site, these machines demonstrated resourcefulness and adaptability in medieval campaigns.

Medieval strategies diverged from ancient ones, relying on levies and feudal knights rather than professional armies. Chivalry shaped noble conduct, while mercenaries introduced new dynamics to warfare. Together, these elements transformed military tactics and society, leaving a lasting legacy.

Join historian Claire Kennan as she guides you through these fascinating topics, enriching your understanding of the rich backdrop of Field of Glory: Kingdoms.

Don’t miss this engaging historical exploration—perfect for a deeper dive into the complexities of medieval life. Check out here the last episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQrYLOdjwRhQZYBA0KsqsTfk10O8TtxRk

We’re thrilled to announce that the second macrotopic Hierarchies and Livelihood of A Lens On - Snapshot has been completely released. Head over to the playlist (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQrYLOdjwRhQZYBA0KsqsTfk10O8TtxRk) now to catch all the pills about Hierarchies and Livelihood.

But that's not all—before we dive into the next chapter, our friend DasTactic is took us on a deep dive into Field of Glory: Kingdoms. Below, you can check out some of the most interesting highlights from his live stream.
https://youtu.be/dYjtTqFPEFo
Don't miss out, watch now and stay tuned for even more exciting content coming soon.

Field of Glory: Kingdoms is a highly detailed strategy game that immerses players in the intricate world of medieval politics, warfare, and societal structures. It faithfully recreates the dynamics of the medieval era, allowing players to explore the different strata of society and systems of government that defined the period.
This article will delve into these societal layers, from peasants to rulers, while also recounting highlights from a gameplay session featuring Wales. We’ll explore population management, the role of nobility and clergy, and the challenges of diplomacy and war.

[h3]Exploring the Strata of Medieval Society[/h3]
In Field of Glory: Kingdoms, society is layered and multifaceted, reflecting the realities of medieval life. From the lowest ranks to the ruling elite, every societal group plays a role in the success of your kingdom.
1. Slaves:
While slaves were explicitly represented as a population element in Field of Glory: Empires, they are abstracted in Kingdoms. Their presence is implied through specific buildings and their associated functions, such as labor in agriculture or infrastructure.
2. Peasants:
Peasants are the lowest societal rung you can directly manipulate. This group encompasses serfs, indentured workers, and other low-level laborers. In the game, they form the backbone of your economy, working in agriculture or infrastructure like mining and industry. Managing your peasant population effectively ensures steady resource production and stability.
3. Freemen:
Freemen, a step above peasants, have more versatility. They can be assigned to agriculture, infrastructure, or commerce, providing greater flexibility in resource allocation. They play a vital role in maintaining the balance between economic growth and societal needs.
4. Clergy:
The clergy primarily contribute to your kingdom’s piety, a crucial resource for maintaining morale and authority. While they can be assigned to infrastructure tasks, they are not as efficient as other groups, and their real value lies in their spiritual influence.
5. Local Nobility:
The nobility is vital for maintaining authority and stewardship across your kingdom. They can also contribute to the military and commerce sectors, showcasing their versatility. However, their influence extends beyond labor; they are key to managing regions and maintaining order.

[h3]Comparing Realms: From Wales to Byzantium[/h3]
During the gameplay session, we explored some extremes within the game, contrasting the vast Byzantine Empire with its wonders to the humble beginnings of Wales.

The Byzantine Empire and Constantinople:
As an example, we take a closer look at the power and wealth, exemplified by the thriving metropolis of Constantinople. This city serves as a beacon of prosperity in the game, with its advanced infrastructure and cultural achievements. Players can witness how hamlets evolve through villages and towns to eventually become sprawling cities, showcasing the potential for growth when resources and governance align effectively.
Constantinople's well-developed regions provide a stark contrast to the smaller, less-developed towns of Wales. The wealth and power concentrated in such urban centers highlight the importance of long-term planning and strategic resource allocation in building a prosperous empire.

Wales and the Marcher Lords:
Wales, on the other hand, offers a rugged, mountainous terrain that requires a more localized approach to governance. The comparative simplicity of Welsh settlements, coupled with their challenging geography, reflects the hardships faced by smaller kingdoms. The presence of powerful marcher lords in neighboring Mercia adds to the complexity of managing Welsh territories. These borderland nobles, modeled as baronial estates in the game, represent both a threat and an opportunity.
Players must carefully balance internal development while keeping an eye on expansion opportunities. The comparison between Constantinople’s grandeur and Wales’ humble beginnings emphasizes the wide spectrum of experiences Field of Glory: Kingdoms offers.

[h3]Managing Governance and Population Dynamics[/h3]
Authority and Nobility:
Governance in Field of Glory: Kingdoms involves managing both the basic nobility within your regions and the more powerful barons who oversee large estates. Authority is a critical resource, and maintaining it requires a delicate balance of loyalty and influence. Governors or seneschals can be appointed to regions from your court, offering assistance in managing local affairs.
However, their effectiveness depends on their loyalty and motivations. Disgruntled court members, disloyal governors, or power-hungry nobles can undermine your authority, leading to unrest or rebellion. Navigating court intrigue—complete with disgruntled relatives and ambitious nobles—adds another layer of complexity.

Resource Flow from Population Groups:
The population strata feed into various resources. Locally active resources like food and growth are directly tied to regional prosperity. Meanwhile, global resources like gold and manpower influence your kingdom's overall strength. Strategic assignment of peasants, freemen, clergy, and nobility to their most efficient roles ensures steady production and societal harmony.

[h3]Diplomatic Aspirations and Military Preparation[/h3]
Eyeing Mercia and Diplomatic Maneuvers:
During the session, the Welsh kingdom eyed the fertile plains of Mercia with ambitious intent. Expanding into Mercia required laying claims on its regions, a process that could be achieved through diplomacy or regional decisions. In this playthrough, Wales successfully claimed Hereford early on, preparing for war to assert control.

Preparing for War:
Anticipating conflict, the Welsh forces were bolstered with additional armored cavalry. This unit type excels in open terrain, making them a valuable asset for campaigns on the wide plains of Mercia. The strategy was to leverage the natural advantage of cavalry against Mercia’s more traditional armies.

The Role of Vassal States:
Mercia’s status as a vassal of England complicated matters. Harold Godwinson, King of England, took personal command of the English and Mercian forces, joined by Northumbria’s armies. This coalition presented a formidable challenge to the Welsh ambitions.

[h3]Clash of Armies: Wales vs. England and Mercia[/h3]
The Welsh forces, composed of cavalry, Ostmen, and javelinmen, descended from the mountains to face the combined armies of England and Mercia. Their strategy hinged on intercepting King Harold Godwinson’s forces before they could unite with the main Mercian army.
The battle that ensued was a dramatic clash of strategies and unit compositions, with the Welsh leveraging their mobility and terrain familiarity against the more disciplined English Huscarls and archers. Without spoiling the outcome, the encounter showcased the depth of the game’s combat mechanics and the importance of preparation and strategic positioning.

[h3]Takeaways on Growth and Expansion[/h3]
Balancing Growth and Health:
As seen in the comparison between Wales and Byzantium, growth in Field of Glory: Kingdoms is a gradual process. Regions can evolve over time from small hamlets to thriving cities, provided resources are managed wisely. This growth also ties into the health and well-being of your population, which must be supported by infrastructure such as Wells, Bathhouses, and Hospitals.

Strategic Planning is Key:
The session underscored the importance of both long-term planning and the ability to adapt to immediate challenges. Whether navigating court intrigue, balancing resources, or waging war, every decision carries weight.

[h3]Conclusion: Medieval Society and Kingdom Management[/h3]
Field of Glory: Kingdoms offers players a deeply engaging experience, capturing the complexities of medieval society and governance. From managing the lowest strata of society to navigating the ambitions of powerful nobles, every layer of the game contributes to a rich and immersive strategy experience.
The contrasting realms of Wales and Byzantium demonstrate the wide variety of approaches players can take, from humble beginnings to imperial grandeur. Whether expanding through diplomacy, warfare, or economic development, the game rewards careful planning and adaptability.
With every decision, players shape the destiny of their kingdoms, balancing ambition with the responsibilities of rule.

PLAY NOW:
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1985050/Field_of_Glory_Kingdoms/