Medieval II Total War Debuts Hotseats Update

• Hotseat Mode offers asynchronous multiplayer gameplay on a single shared device.
• Available in standard, full co-op, and battle royale variations.
• Halberds introduces significant improvements to underpowered late-game units.

Feral Interactive has released a major update for Total War: Medieval II on iOS and Android, delivering two long-awaited features. Dubbed Hotseats & Halberds, this patch adds the Hotseat multiplayer mode alongside comprehensive late-game balance adjustments.

Hotseat Mode in Total War: Medieval II allows multiple players to compete or collaborate in the same campaign by sharing one device and taking turns. While previously featured in the desktop Kingdoms expansion, the mobile version now includes enhanced functionality.

This mode is playable in both the Grand Campaign and the Kingdoms expansion, with standard, full co-op, and a new battle royale option. The battle royale variant scores players across categories like military strength and population, and includes an auto-elimination system to maintain tension.

To streamline these multiplayer sessions, the update also adds optional gameplay modifiers for faster campaigns. Diplomats gain increased movement range, buildings are cheaper and faster to complete, and major historical events like the Mongol invasion now occur earlier.

On the tactical side, the Halberds component provides a thorough balance rework targeting weaker late-era units. Pike formations have been redesigned with a new Cohesion system, enabling them to maintain formation and repel attacks more effectively until their morale breaks.

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Units such as Zweihanders and Daneaxe warriors now possess Cohesion Disruption, making them excellent for shattering enemy lines. Halberdiers also receive stat boosts that position them as powerful alternatives to spearmen, with improved performance and better bracing against cavalry. Finally, Gunpowder units like musketeers and arquebusiers fire more rapidly due to AI and formation refinements.

Access all this new content by downloading Total War: Medieval II for free via the links below. For a complete overview of the update, visit the official website.