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Hastings shoreline Castle defense

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GUIDE · BATTLE STRATEGY

Hastings shoreline Castle defense

Hastings opens with several hostile Saxon and Viking forces. Fortify the shoreline against landings, then accept Hardrada’s offer when it arrives and prepare for the next phase.

Murder Holes Age of Empires II technology icon
Related game artwork: Murder Holes

Overview

Hastings opens with several hostile Saxon and Viking forces. Fortify the shoreline against landings, then accept Hardrada’s offer when it arrives and prepare for the next phase.

Plan and execution

Research Murder Holes, Bodkin Arrow, and Ballistics while mining stone for a second Castle. Use William to scout the route to the shore and lure nearby attackers into the starting Castle. Send Villagers to build the coastal Castle once the path is clear. When Hardrada offers an alliance after roughly three minutes, accept and regroup for control of his remaining force.

Risks and adaptation

Unprotected shorelines invite enemy ships and landing parties. A scenario trigger may leave Hardrada’s army stalled; keep a Mangonel or mobile force ready to finish the movement objective if needed.

Focus
Accept Hardrada’s alliance after securing the coast
Signature / category
Plan and execution
Release / context
Age of Empires II system
Region
Battle strategy
Classification
Battle strategies
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