Introduction

Welcome to this comprehensive guide on playing the Lion Clan in Northgard. My name is Lis, and I am excited to share my strategies for piloting this powerful and militarily dominant clan. As one of the strongest military clans in the game, Lion does not rely on Krowns for army recruitment. Instead, it utilizes Faith to convert subjects into warbands, making it an efficient and independent force. Additionally, zones containing military camps provide livability bonuses and further attack power, making Lion a self-sufficient powerhouse capable of clearing neutral threats and feasting efficiently.

In this guide, I will break down the core strengths and weaknesses of the Lion Clan, provide optimized build orders for 801, 802, and 803, and outline key strategies to dominate the battlefield. Whether you’re looking to execute a fast-paced rush or prepare for a late-game military conversion, this guide will equip you with the tools to master the Lion Clan.

Core Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Self-sufficiency: Can clear neutral zones early without external support.
• Faith-driven military: Uses Faith instead of Krowns, allowing for a unique warband economy.
• Powerful relic mechanics: Paladins can carry relics into enemy territories, removing building slot limitations.
• Strong military scaling: Synergizes well with upgraded military camps and legions.
• Flexible economy: Can adapt based on food and resource availability, making Lion a resilient clan.

Weaknesses:

• Lack of scouting flexibility: Since every villager has a crucial role, dedicating scouts early can be inefficient.
• Can lack direction: Lion’s flexibility can be a double-edged sword; without a solid plan, players may struggle with optimization.
• Relies on livability for growth: Without proper tile management, the warband cap can feel restrictive.

Build Order for 801

The first year of an 801 build revolves around efficiently securing resources and setting up an optimal economy:

1. Clear a stone and food tile early to expand your economy.
2. Mine enough stone to upgrade your first food building.
3. Set up four core eco tiles:
   • Food tile
   • Faith tile
   • Commerce tile
   • Wood tile
4. Prioritize a Woodcutter’s Lodge early to unlock Sharp Axes.
5. Follow up with a Stone Mine once Mining Efficiency is available.
6. Convert two Sentinels early: One with coins, one with faith.
7. Tavern setup:
   • Build a Tavern and upgrade the tile.
   • Work the Tavern immediately to ensure steady happiness.
8. Sentry Camp construction:
   • Upgrade and start working it immediately.
   • Manage resources efficiently by setting up an Anchorage if needed.
9. Build a Forge early and prioritize Steel Work once faith production is stable.

Military Development and Key Strategies

Military Path

The best path for Lion is Legions, as it ensures a 1,500 military power bonus, which can turn the tide of battle in your favor.

Conversion Optimization

• Always convert in Winter when food consumption is high to prevent economic setbacks.
• Upgrade military buildings before large-scale conversions to maximize efficiency.
• Paladins with relics provide massive sustain, making them ideal for drawn-out battles.

Advanced Strategies

• Use Emporia to upgrade Anchorage for free, boosting economy without sacrificing stone.
• Build multiple Smithies across military zones to make full use of Steel Work and 200 Fame bonuses.
• For 803 strategies, forge the Holy Fire Relic and aim for mass conversions to secure game-ending dominance.
• Adapting to game events: Whether dealing with blizzards or aggressive neutral threats, always remain flexible with resource allocation.

Conclusion

Mastering the Lion Clan in Northgard requires careful economic planning, strategic military progression, and intelligent use of faith-based warband conversions. Whether executing an early 801 rush or preparing for a devastating 803 Holy Fire strategy, Lion’s immense military potential makes it one of the most formidable clans in the game.