Couched attacks are performed automatically by default, but can be switched to manual on the options screen. The lance will be pointed upwards when the horse is not yet moving fast enough. The lance will lower into position once sufficient speed has been acquired. Charge an enemy with the lance pointed directly at them, and if done correctly, it will deliver a large amount of damage. This couched attack ignores normal directional blocking with a weapon. The damage delivered is dependent on speed, so faster horses will inflict more damage. However, rarely does an enemy survive a couched lance attack, so investing in a faster horse for this reason alone is probably not necessary. An armored horse may be a wise choice, since charging the enemy increases risk of melee combat.