:/ I see this as a nerf since than why would I use a Katana ( Short Slashing Weapon) when I could use a Longsword/Bastard sword for the extra reach
That's a good point Muki. I suppose it would be down to personal preference. If you prefer the extra Cut, you'll go with the Katana. If you prefer the extra Pierce, you'll go with the Bastard sword. Plus aesthetic reasons like Japanese themed character, European themed character.
The problem is curved blades are great in warband just because of their hit box's. Some of them were fixed others not so much. Remember the native scim, you could hit your opponent with the air in front of the weapon and kill them.
Yeah but the Scimitar is a lot more curved that the Katana. I'm no expert, but I don't think the curvature of the Katana would make a big difference in the way you're meaning.
The katana is a niche weapon and in reality would have been superseded by the long sword overnight if the quality of steel was available. The katana has a very low str requirement and very high speed in these respects it is a very good weapon. The long sword has reach and a decent stab it is fair as katana stabs would have bounced of even the poorest metal armour and could have even shattered on impact with plate or if caught in the armour and bent.
As for this. Do you actually think a longsword would do better against Plate than a Katana? Do you think a Longsword could pierce plate, but a Katana couldn't?
Both swords would be shite against plate. Neither sword would pierce plate, because swords are crap against armor.
A Spear, heavy blunt trauma weapon (mace etc) and Bow would be the preferred weapons.
And shatter and bend? Gimme a break