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The Battle at the Kalka River

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CAMPAIGN · THE LAST KHANS

The Battle at the Kalka River

After a defeat by the Mongols, Kotyan’s people retreat toward the Kalka River as the pursuing horde closes in. Reach the Cuman settlements and stop the Tatar force from encircling them; the Mongols are too strong for a direct early battle.

The Battle at the Kalka River Age of Empires II campaign artwork
The Battle at the Kalka River Age of Empires II campaign artwork

Overview

After a defeat by the Mongols, Kotyan’s people retreat toward the Kalka River as the pursuing horde closes in. Reach the Cuman settlements and stop the Tatar force from encircling them; the Mongols are too strong for a direct early battle.

Player approach

The Battle at the Kalka River opens with a retreating army and temporary allies that delay the Mongol advance. Use that time to establish two resource groups and attack the nearby Tatar farming village with a protected ram.

Step-by-step plan

Send the northern Villagers to build a Siege Workshop and Lumber Camp by the converted central tower; send the southern workers to food and a Mill. Scout west for Sheep while using both Stables to produce Scout Cavalry. Build a ram and send it against the farming village’s tower with the cavalry screening enemy strikes. Expand the captured foothold only after the first defensive wave is under control.

Risks and adjustments

Kiev and the other allies only delay the Mongols and may eventually fall. Avoid relying on them as a permanent shield, and do not let the ram travel without cavalry cover.

Focused strategy page

For a dedicated version of this plan, open The Battle at the Kalka River opening defense.

Mission overview

After a defeat by the Mongols, Kotyan’s people retreat toward the Kalka River as the pursuing horde closes in. Reach the Cuman settlements and stop the Tatar force from encircling them; the Mongols are too strong for a direct early battle.

Objectives

  1. Keep Kotyan alive while retreating from the Mongol horde.
  2. Find the Cuman tribes on the far side of the river.
  3. Defeat the Tatars so the Cuman people can escape south.
Focus
Scenario · Kotyan Khan
Signature / category
Story & scenarios
Release / context
The Last Khans
Classification
Scenarios
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