House Profile: Ming

Every game needs its bad guys and it seems Ming are looking to fill that gap with relish. But is their reputation deserved? We spoke to leader and founder MingLin to find out

HOW DID YOU FIRST FIND OUT ABOUT CONQUEROR’S BLADE AND WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE GAME?

I first found out about Conqueror's Blade from a housemate who recommended we try it out and to this day I'm very glad I did. The main thing that attracted me to the game wasn't so much just the gameplay, but the combination of it featuring all from the armies of the world, and something I have always wanted to see in a game - a political system that would be entirely controlled by the players.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE SET UP MING?

After playing in the first world beta there were only about 6-10 of us at the time. We realized that if we want to actually make a dent in the map and show we have what it takes, we would have to build ourselves, not only a house of elite warlords, but also try to build a community that would flourish within the game's history.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES MING DIFFERENT?

Something we really strive for in Ming is to aim for perfection in teamwork. It's definitely one of our stronger traits amongst the other houses, as we have demonstrated in the Spring Mayhem Tourny and across all the CBTs. Whether it be calling out targets to CC and take out, or someone needing help to support a flank with no troops, you can be sure Ming players will react quickly and sort the situation out accordingly.

WHAT WAS THE SECRET OF YOUR SUCCESS IN THE SPRING MAYHEM TOURNAMENT?

I believe out of everyone in NA and EU we definitely had the edge with our class and unit choices. We did a lot of unit testing; mainly seeing who beats who with and without abilities being used. We ultimately went with a melee-heavy army over a half-and-half mix due to melee units not only being cheaper, but also proving to last far longer in combat. Our teamwork overall ultimately led to our success though, and the overall trust we had in one another when it came to shot calling and moving around the map.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE AS A HOUSE WHEN THE GAME GOES LIVE?

Like most players hope to achieve, Territory control, riches, resource control and just to have the best time we can at the end of the day. I don't think anyone needs too much to enjoy this game but I do hope we all make the best of it. Oh right and to prove "Ming#1" - Thekk.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE CLASS TO PLAY AS AND WHY?

My favorite class would definitely be Poleaxe. I've always loved the idea of being on the frontline leading men into battle and it’s just a menace to be on the receiving end of my axe. The Poleaxe, unlike any other, has always had a special place in my heart for not only what it is capable of, but also just its overall design being so deadly and intimidating.

WHO ARE YOUR MOST TRUSTED AIDES AND WHAT ROLES DO THEY COMMAND WITHIN MING?

I know some people in my house might feel left out but I will mainly name the two people who really stepped up their A-game during my absence during a past CBT and made our house into what it is now: Lianshi and Thekk have proven time and time again that, not only are they reliable, but also great in-game and out. They have the best time when playing but are also great jokers when it comes to the community - always keeping Discord entertained with their shenanigans. I don't think Ming would be anywhere without the hard work these two have put in - it far exceeds my own and I always try to give the credit where its due.

IF SOMEONE WANTED TO JOIN MING, OR START A DIALOG TOWARDS FUTURE TRADE OR ESTABLISHING A PACT, WHAT SHOULD THEY DO?

Ming is always looking for allies as we don't have too many, for good reasons (lol). If any house is out there and wishes to ally to us, you need only to ask. Obviously, the alliance would have to be good for both parties, but I am always open to discussion and debate. If you believe you can benefit us and yourself, great!

ARE THERE OTHER HOUSES THAT YOU CONSIDER TO BE NATURAL ALLIES?

As of this moment we really only have one ally and house we trust and that is Bastion. They've been with us for a while and I trust them with just about anything at this point.

CONVERSELY, DO YOU HAVE MAJOR ENEMIES?

The way it stands everyone has made it clear they have it out for us, so I believe rather than naming a certain group of people, let’s just say it’s a case of Ming vs. The World. We welcome those who would do us harm, to come to our doorstep with swords and shields at the ready!

Many thanks to MingLin for answering our questions. If you know of a house that is deserving of similar recognition that we should profile in the future article, please make your nomination via our Discord channel.