December 28, 2025
Gaming

Rise Of Kingdoms Byzantium

Rise of Kingdoms offers a vast array of civilizations for players to choose from, each with unique strengths, units, and playstyles. Among these, Byzantium stands out as a powerful choice that combines defensive resilience with strong versatility in both offense and economy. Known historically as the Eastern Roman Empire, Byzantium brings rich strategic value to the game, making it a favorite for players who want a well-rounded civilization capable of adapting to different challenges on the battlefield and in resource management.

Why Choose Byzantium in Rise of Kingdoms?

Byzantium is a civilization that excels in defense and versatility. Its unique bonuses and special units make it ideal for players who prefer a balanced approach between offense, defense, and economic growth. Unlike some civilizations that focus purely on aggressive expansion or rapid resource collection, Byzantium offers a solid foundation for long-term growth and battlefield endurance.

Key Civilization Bonuses

  • Infantry Defense Boost: Byzantium grants a 5% increase to infantry defense, making your infantry units tougher in battle and improving their survivability during prolonged fights.
  • Faster Construction Speed: A 10% boost to building construction speed allows players to develop their cities more rapidly, gaining an edge in infrastructure and troop training.
  • Increased Action Point Recovery: Byzantium increases action point recovery by 5%, enabling more frequent participation in events and exploration activities.

These bonuses together create a civilization that not only sustains its military forces longer but also builds infrastructure swiftly to support continuous growth and readiness for battle.

Special Units: Cataphracts

One of Byzantium’s most distinctive features is its special unit, the Cataphracts. These heavily armored cavalry units are renowned for their high defense and attack power, particularly against infantry. Cataphracts can turn the tide of battles by charging enemy lines and disrupting formations.

Advantages of Cataphracts

  • High durability, allowing them to withstand significant damage.
  • Strong against infantry, making them effective counter-units.
  • Good mobility for rapid engagement and retreat in battle.

When combined with Byzantium’s infantry defense bonuses, Cataphracts become a formidable force on the battlefield, supporting both offensive strikes and defensive holds.

Effective Strategies Using Byzantium

To maximize Byzantium’s potential in Rise of Kingdoms, players should focus on a balanced strategy that leverages their civilization’s strengths in defense, economic development, and tactical unit deployment.

Defensive and Economic Balance

Byzantium’s infantry defense bonus is best utilized by maintaining a strong infantry core in your army composition. Pair this with the faster building construction to quickly fortify your city’s defenses and enhance resource production. Investing in resource buildings early ensures a steady flow of materials, which supports troop training and technological upgrades.

Using Cataphracts Wisely

Cataphracts are excellent for both offensive raids and defensive counterattacks. Players should train these units consistently and use them to exploit enemy weaknesses, especially targeting civilizations that rely heavily on infantry. Their speed allows them to respond quickly to battlefield developments, making them valuable for surprise strikes or reinforcing allied troops.

Commander Choices for Byzantium

Choosing the right commanders can further amplify Byzantium’s capabilities. Commanders that boost infantry effectiveness, defense, or cavalry skills complement Byzantium’s bonuses and special units well.

  • Belisarius: A legendary commander who specializes in infantry and cavalry, Belisarius synergizes perfectly with Byzantium’s strengths. His skills increase the durability and damage output of infantry and cavalry units alike.
  • Harald Sigurdsson: Known for his cavalry prowess, Harald enhances the effectiveness of Cataphracts and other mounted units.
  • Richard I: A versatile commander with strong defensive skills, Richard can improve your army’s staying power, making him an excellent choice for players focusing on defensive gameplay.

Best Builds and Tips for Byzantium Players

To optimize your rise with Byzantium, consider the following tips:

  • Focus on Infantry and Cavalry Research: Prioritize technologies that enhance infantry defense and cavalry attack to exploit Byzantium’s bonuses fully.
  • Upgrade Resource Buildings Early: Faster construction means you can quickly develop farms, lumber mills, and quarries to maintain a strong economy.
  • Participate Actively in Events: Increased action point recovery allows more frequent involvement in events, which provide valuable rewards for your growth.
  • Balance Your Army: Mix Cataphracts with infantry and other units to maintain a flexible force capable of responding to various threats.
  • Join Active Alliances: Byzantium’s versatility shines in group play where defensive and offensive strategies can be coordinated.

Byzantium’s Role in Late-Game Play

As players progress into the late game, Byzantium’s defensive and economic advantages become even more crucial. Well-fortified cities and durable troops allow you to withstand sieges and maintain resource production under pressure. Cataphracts continue to be key in open field battles, offering mobility and power against common infantry-based armies.

Byzantium’s balanced nature also means you can adapt your strategy as the situation demands. Whether you need to hold your ground during massive PvP wars or launch strategic assaults on rival players, Byzantium’s flexibility is a significant asset.

Byzantium in Rise of Kingdoms is an excellent choice for players seeking a civilization that combines strong defensive capabilities, economic efficiency, and powerful cavalry units. Its bonuses to infantry defense, construction speed, and action point recovery create a versatile foundation for both beginners and experienced players. With the formidable Cataphracts and the right commanders, Byzantium offers a strategic edge in battles and growth. Whether you prefer steady defense or calculated offense, mastering Byzantium’s strengths will help you build a thriving kingdom capable of standing tall amidst the chaos of Rise of Kingdoms.