GUIDE · NORTHERN EUROPE

Vikings Strategy

Vikings: On water maps, use the Dock and warship advantages to contest the shoreline early; on land, choose a timing that makes the economy work before the opponent can outscale it. Warships and infantry are the signature choices; use Longships on water and add land support to protect the economy.

Overview

Opening decision and first timing

Free Wheelbarrow and Hand Cart improve the working economy without consuming Town Center research time. On water, cheaper warships and Docks can turn that income into fleet production; control the fish area before adding more Fishing Ships. On land, an infantry or ranged timing is safer than assuming the naval bonuses will help.

Composition, counters, and transition

Berserks and stronger infantry can hold ground, while Longships and the later water roster provide the naval attack. Chieftains helps infantry against mounted enemies, but they still need a route to reach targets. Scout the opponent’s Castle Age composition before investing heavily in a Castle unit; keep enough wood and gold for ships or siege on a mixed map.

Opening priorities

On water maps, use the Dock and warship advantages to contest the shoreline early; on land, choose a timing that makes the economy work before the opponent can outscale it.

Core army

Warships and infantry are the signature choices; use Longships on water and add land support to protect the economy.

Technology & transition

Use the early food economy to sustain ships or infantry, then turn control of the map into a stronger Castle Age fleet and late-game production.

Watch for

The Stable and Cavalry Archer trees have substantial gaps, so scout mounted threats and prepare infantry, ranged, or siege support.

Also known as: Vikings (Age of Empires II)/Strategy
Focus: Civilization opening and matchup plan
Signature / category: Strategy guide
Release / context: The Conquerors
Region: Northern Europe
Classification: Civilization plans