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.

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