Squires is a technology in Age of Empires II that can be researched at the Barracks once the Castle Age is reached. Once researched, it increases infantry speed by +10%.
Squires is available to all civilizations except for the Celts, Magyars and Portuguese.
Note that, despite lacking Squires, the Celts have the fastest moving infantry in the game due to their civilization bonus that gives their infantry +15% speed.
The Franks were not able to research Squires in The Conquerors. It was added to their technology tree in The Forgotten.
Civilizations Bonuses
- Chinese: Squires is 15%/20% cheaper in the Castle/Imperial Age.
- Goths: With Perfusion researched, researching Squires is 100% faster.
Team Bonuses
- A team containing Goths: Researching Squires is 20% faster.
The Forgotten Changes
- Squires cost 100 food now.
- Franks get Squires.
History
Prior to becoming a knight, young men put in a long apprenticeship as a squire. Squires were assigned to a knight for their training in weapons and social graces. In return they cared for the knight's equipment and horses, dressed him for combat, guarded him, and accompanied him into battle. All knights were squires at an early age, but not all squires became knights. Squires without noble birth, financial backing, or the support of superior lord might live out their life without becoming a knight. Squires fought alongside the knights, although their weapons and armor were of a lower standard. The support of squires made armies more effective.
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