GUIDE · TECHNOLOGY STRATEGY
Stirrups cavalry-upgrade sequencing
Stirrups improves Bulgarian mounted-unit attack speed, creating strong timing windows for Konniks and later cavalry. Reach it after the upgrades needed to keep the army alive, then use the faster attacks where contact can be sustained.
Overview
Stirrups improves Bulgarian mounted-unit attack speed, creating strong timing windows for Konniks and later cavalry. Reach it after the upgrades needed to keep the army alive, then use the faster attacks where contact can be sustained.
Plan and execution
In Castle Age, prioritize the Blacksmith armor needed for the planned fight, then add Stirrups when Konnik production is established and the economy can support its cost. Keep cavalry together for a focused push, using mobility to choose engagements and infantry or siege to cover their approach. In later ages, use the upgrade to strengthen sustained cavalry fights and raids while replacing losses from forward production.
Risks and adaptation
Stirrups does not compensate for entering a countered fight or charging under defenses. Its research competes with other expensive upgrades, so time it around active cavalry production rather than buying it before the army exists. Scout for Camels and Spearmen and disengage when the opponent has prepared a hard counter.
- Focus
- Bulgarian cavalry attack-speed power spike
- Signature / category
- Plan and execution
- Release / context
- Age of Empires II system
- Region
- Technology strategy
- Classification
- Technology strategies