So "Realistic" difficulty isn't "Normal" difficulty. Yikes

[lcmiracle]

The only probably with full difficulty right now is the rock throwing looters and the madness that is mountain bandit hideouts.

 

[Diavolo]

Reamistic/normal is just the same for everyone. Imo it should be the difficulty to play on for most people. It is a deadly world for you and your enemies. Headshot javelin has always been a fear ever since m&b original so just be careful. Be happy that you army don't auto-lose if the player is knocked out like in earlier games.

 

[TheHuscarl]

The difficulty setting for combat AI can also be changed

 

[Ted Striker]

I think now part of my initial problem with the difficulty level was watching youtubers and streamers play this. It's obvious now they're playing Very Easy or Easy, seeing the speed they move on the map and the minimal damage they take. So after watching a few videos and streams over a few days I buy the game (was going to anyway. Warband is fantastic), play on Realistic and get my ass kicked by a looter that one shots me in the leg or arm while they're running around taking minimal damage in their playthroughs.