GUIDE · NORTHERN EUROPE
Varangians Strategy
Varangians: Use the naval and cavalry strengths to select a water opening or a mounted land strategy based on the map. Longships and mounted units provide the main pressure, with the Jarl line adding a distinctive option.
Overview
Varangians: Use the naval and cavalry strengths to select a water opening or a mounted land strategy based on the map. Longships and mounted units provide the main pressure, with the Jarl line adding a distinctive option.
Opening decision and first timing
Shepherding, fishing, and hunting generate some gold, so use those safe food sources while planning the first military spend. Stronger Bloodlines makes a mounted opening attractive on land; on water, consider whether faster-attacking Longships can protect fishing. The early income fades if those sources are lost or exhausted.
Composition, counters, and transition
Jarls, Varangian Guards, and Longships give distinct pressure routes rather than one army to build together. Varangian Guards can generate gold through combat, but only when they survive favorable engagements. Scout the opponent’s anti-cavalry and naval response, then fund the line that fits the map. Keep a conventional economy behind the short-term bonus.
Opening priorities
Use the naval and cavalry strengths to select a water opening or a mounted land strategy based on the map.
Core army
Longships and mounted units provide the main pressure, with the Jarl line adding a distinctive option.
Technology & transition
Keep fishing and hunting safe, then turn resource income into faster ships or cavalry production.
Watch for
Early resource bonuses fade in longer games; maintain an economy and do not rely on a short-lived lead.
- Also known as
- Varangians/Strategy
- Focus
- Civilization opening and matchup plan
- Signature / category
- Strategy guide
- Release / context
- The Viking Sagas
- Region
- Northern Europe
- Classification
- Civilization plans