b. Britons [AOK6B]

Explore the history and unique attributes of the Britons civilization in Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. Learn about their strengths in archery and economic bonuses.

The Britons civilization in Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition boasts a rich history and distinct advantages. Their Archery Ranges produce units 20% faster, offering quick access to powerful Archers that threaten enemy infantry. Additionally, Town Centers cost 50% less, facilitating easier expansion and villager safety, especially when starting in the Castle Age. Archers also receive a +1 range bonus in the Castle Age and another +1 in the Imperial Age, totaling +2 extra range. Shepherds work 25% faster, allowing for more efficient food gathering and potentially reallocating villagers to wood production.

The Briton technology tree is heavily geared towards archery. They have access to all standard archer upgrades, including Archers, Crossbowmen, Arbalests, Cavalry Archers, and Heavy Cavalry Archers. Their archers benefit from the aforementioned range bonuses and have access to all armor upgrades up to Bracer and Ring Archer Armor. While they lack Hand Cannoneers, their archers are considered their primary strength.

Historically, the Britons' story spans from the withdrawal of Roman legions to the Norman conquest. Following Roman departure around 400 AD, the British Isles experienced centuries of invasion and migration by various groups, including Celts, Scotti, Saxons, Angles, Frisians, and Jutes. By 600 AD, Angles and Saxons dominated most of modern England, with Celtic strongholds remaining in Wales, Scotland, and West Cornwall. The Anglo-Saxons, named after the Angles, established England and the English language. In 865 AD, Danish Vikings invaded, leading to the fall of most Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, with only the West Saxons under Alfred the Great holding out. England was divided between Vikings (Danelaw) and Anglo-Saxons for nearly 200 years, marked by the Danegeld (a payment to the Danes). By 954 AD, England was unified under an English king. In 1066 AD, Harold Godwinson was crowned king but faced claims from Harald Hardrada of Norway and William of Normandy. Harold defeated the Norwegian at Stamford Bridge but was subsequently defeated and killed by William at the Battle of Hastings, leading to the Norman conquest.

Later medieval history saw English rulers involved in conflicts in France, including the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453), triggered by English claims to the French throne and disputes over trade and alliances. Early English victories, often attributed to longbowmen decimating French knights, were eventually countered by French rallies inspired by Joan of Arc, concluding with French victory in 1453.