Takeda Great Guard (TWS2 Unit)

Takeda Great Guard (TWS2 Unit)
Class	Spear Cavalry
Recruitment Cost	1100
Upkeep Cost	250
Requires	Buildings: Bajutsu Master Dojo Naginata Dojo Resources: Warhorses
Melee Attack	14
Charge Bonus	35
Bonus vs Cavalry	10
Melee Defence	6
Armour	6
Morale	16
Speed	8

Description

Only the very best samurai are chosen for this spear-armed cavalry unit. The presence of such revered warriors encourages nearby comrades.

These elite warriors ride heavy horses, and their power in full charge is focused to deliver a devastating spear attack, crashing through many enemies with ease. Great guard samurai have high morale and great prestige, making them inspiring to nearby friendly units. The guard are vulnerable to missile attacks. Spearmen, the other great danger to cavalry, can be flanked by a careful guard commander and then smashed by the guards’ heavy charge.

Historically, the Tokugawa created several guard units during and immediately after their rise to the shogunate. The “oban” or great guard were the personal bodyguards of Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1590. By 1600, these guards had multiplied with many “kumi” or companies in existence. Additional guard units were also raised: the “Ryoban” or "Two Guards of the Body Guard" and the "Inner Guard". There was another force called the "Honourable Body Guard" who only guarded the shogun at night in Edo. A generation after the Sengoku Jidai, the “Goshinban” or "Honourable New Guard" were added to the roster, although this may have been to keep troublesome younger members of samurai families out of trouble and under the shogun’s eye!

Strengths & Weaknesses

• Deadly charge but vulnerable in prolonged melee. Good versus cavalry.
• Vulnerable to spear infantry.