Two classic Field Battle maps have been reintroduced after some time away. They are Combat Arena and Grassland Assault, and they join the matchmaking rotation from today, January 21. If you’re unfamiliar with either, simply read on!

 

Combat Arena

History

Combat Arena is a purpose-built training ground, nestled between the sites of two great military academies that once vied for imperial favour. At the end of every academic year, their graduates would stage a fierce battle to decide which of the colleges would lead the empire’s next intake of officers. Unfortunately, while both institutions have long since perished, their bloody tradition persists as the arena continues to attract eager warriors with little cause to fight for.

 

Scouting Report

A stockade surrounds a perfectly square arena, with entrances at opposing corners from where the two sides enter. Aside from its near-featureless symmetry, what distinguishes the map from other Field Battle arenas are raised platforms that lead into the centre, upon which ranged troops can be stationed and protected. These also provide quick routes into the heart of the battle, rewarding those that react quickly to what’s going on around them.

 

General Tips

  • Capturing points A or C (preferably both) is, of course, a necessity, but do not be deceived into defending them too deeply. Taking and holding point B in the centre of the map should be your priority. Then, charge out to capture or reinforce the other point as and when the right opportunity arrives.
  • The arena’s flat and open layout makes it difficult to station ranged units effectively. The platforms either side of the raised centre offer obvious staging points, however, as do the steps that lead up to point C.
  • Cavalry can make use of its mobility despite the limited space, but also face grave when so many players rely on pike and spear units to advance and hold the line. Use the wider channels to navigate the map, thus avoiding the central melee, so you can find a favourable angle of attack.

 

Grassland Assault

History

Local legend says that the old keep at the centre of this peaceful landscape was commissioned by a warlord eager to tax the local farmers working the most fertile land in the province. Greed eventually provoked the locals into an insurrection that undermined the keep, in revenge for which the warlord is said to have cursed the soil with his dying breath. Whatever the truth in the story, no crops have grown since, nor has the keep been rebuilt. However, the echoes of unrest are often heard from the valley, as passing warbands spar for fleeting dominance.

 

Scouting Report

The site for Grassland Attack would be idyllic, were it not for the two military encampments at either side and a row of capture points cutting the map roughly in half. In the centre is the ruined keep, to which most pathways lead, but the higher ground to the north and south is where any battle is won or lost.  

 

General Tips

  • Despite comprising a small group of crumbling outhouses, both point A and point C are easily defensible thanks to their elevation and limited access. Troops can keep watch on the valley below and, if need be, reign fire on an approaching enemy.
  • The old sandstone keep at point B offers little tactical advantage, aside from shielding troops between its walls. However, there is rocky outcrop between A and B that makes for a perfect rallying point from which to defend the north side of the battlefield.
  • Remember you only need to control two capture points to unlock the enemy encampment and press home a final attack!