User blog comment:Cfp3157/Empires Clash for Legacy: Mongols vs. Varangian Guard/@comment-379205-20150625044812

119's "Mongol Invasion" Edge


 * Swords: The Turko-Mongol Sabre is a long, slashing sword that can be used for thrusting with its reinforced point, but is definitely primarily a slashing weapon. The Spathi can be used both to cut and thrust, but is shorter than the Mongol's sabre (though I think you made a mistake on the blade length on the Spahti, more like two feet of blade and half a foot of grip. There was probably a mistake on the length of the sabre as well- the only time a sword would have a grip of greater than a foot would generally be if it was designed for two-handed use, like a claymore or katana). Edge: Mongol


 * Heavy Weapons: The Flanged Mace is a formidable melee weapon, however, it simply can't compete with the deadly blade of the Dane Axe, which proved itself capable of cleaving through leather and even chain mail, if enough force was behind the swing. Edge: Varangian Guard


 * Polearms: The boar spear can be thrown, however, the Mongol glaive has a longer overall reach, and can be used either for thrusting or cutting. Normally, I'd go with the more versatile polearm, but it seems less likely that the glaive would go through the Varangian's mail than the Boar Spear would pierce the Mongol's leather. Edge: Varangian Guard


 * Bows: The Viking bow and arrow would not have been the same longbow design and material as the legendary British weapon, however, Norse war bows could have a great length, and thus, draw weight. However, the Vikings, likely including the Varangians never put as much emphasis on archery as close combat, considering it "prelude" to a battle finished at close ranges. The Mongols, on the other hand, whether on horseback or on foot, were master archers, and were highly skilled at making flexible, powerful composite bows, with a long range. The Mongols were also masters of firing their bows at long range, with great accuracy even on a moving horse, as well as using their bows tactically, firing and retreating to wear down their foes. Edge: Mongol


 * Special: The lasso is an improvised weapon at best. On the other hand, the shield can be very useful both defensively and even offensively as a blunt instrument. Edge: Varangian Guard


 * Armor: The Varangian's chain mail is more durable than the Mongol's leather armor. Edge: Varangian Guard


 * X-Factors: In general, the Mongols and Varangians are very close in most X-Factors. The main stand-out is the greater experience of the Mongols. Still, this is close enough to be Even


 * Overall Winner: The Varangians will put up one hell of a fight, however, in the end, the superior experience and tactics, particularly in terms of archery, of the Mongols will win them the victory. It helps the Mongols that they defeated similarly armed and armored European adversaries in their conquests.