As the times change, medieval Europe changes, and so does warfare. Mount and Blade, with Fire and sword loosely follows a novel of the same name. Warfare has changed forever, as the battlefield shows less and less swords, shields and armor and more and more troops pick up muskets and pikes. Even the simplest peasant can fell an armored knight with a hand made gun, or as lines of pikemen keep the horsemen at bay.
Mount and Blade: With fire and sword is the next step in Mount and Blade evolution. While some may prefer Warband, with fire and sword brings post-medieval weaponry into the fray, where any peasant with a rifle can knock you from your horse and end you reign of carnage. While armor and shields are still used on the field, you get a feel that they are making a last stand as the times change.