Difference between revisions of "Principes (RTW Unit)"
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The Principes have the same helmets, same shields, same swords, and same pilum as [[Hastati_(RTW_unit) |Hastati]]. The only visual difference is their armor. | The Principes have the same helmets, same shields, same swords, and same pilum as [[Hastati_(RTW_unit) |Hastati]]. The only visual difference is their armor. | ||
− | Principes are | + | Principes are simply slightly tougher Hastati. Given that Principes were historically only marginally richer than Hastati that is not unexpected. They have slightly better armor and a slightly higher cost to recruit (but same upkeep). Principes share the same numerous advantages that the Hastati do: the discipline, the volleys, the flexibility on the battlefield and walls. Due to their defense these units are more reliable and difficult to rout than the Hastati. They are also more resistant to morale shocks and more responsive due to their superior discipline and training. |
− | Principes should essentially be used like the infantry preceding them. The only | + | Principes should essentially be used like the infantry preceding them. The only differences are somewhat lower availability and increased toughness compared to the Hastati. It is usually a better idea to train Hastati because they can be retrained more easily, especially as the Julii who won't encounter many developed cities before the Marian Reforms. The effect of Experience also can dwarf the difference between these 2 units. |
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+ | Principes are the best Legion style Heavy Infantry available to the Romans before the Marian Reforms. The next level barracks produces Triarii, who are elite Spearmen. | ||
== Factions == | == Factions == |
Latest revision as of 12:44, 14 February 2021
Principes are older, more reliable soldiers who have seen some service. They fight as heavy infantry in the second line of battle.
Overview
Principes are older, more reliable soldiers who have seen some service. It is their task to be the second line of a legion and carry on the fight once the hastati are spent. They are supposed to carry on the ‘wearing down’ fight and exhaust the enemy. They are, as a result, capable soldiers and unafraid of combat.
They are armed with two pila that are thrown at the enemy at close range before they close to fight hand-to-hand. They are equipped with a sword, a bronze helmet, a large shield, and chain armor. The pilum (plural, pila) is a cleverly designed spear with a soft iron shaft behind the point; it bends on impact so it can’t be thrown back and if it’s stuck in someone or something it is a real hindrance to movement – always assuming whoever it’s stuck in isn’t dead.
Historically, Principes spent their own money on their equipment and, being older, were in a position to buy better gear than the younger Hastati. This, along with age and property requirements, is why they fought as Principes.
Details
The Principes have the same helmets, same shields, same swords, and same pilum as Hastati. The only visual difference is their armor.
Principes are simply slightly tougher Hastati. Given that Principes were historically only marginally richer than Hastati that is not unexpected. They have slightly better armor and a slightly higher cost to recruit (but same upkeep). Principes share the same numerous advantages that the Hastati do: the discipline, the volleys, the flexibility on the battlefield and walls. Due to their defense these units are more reliable and difficult to rout than the Hastati. They are also more resistant to morale shocks and more responsive due to their superior discipline and training.
Principes should essentially be used like the infantry preceding them. The only differences are somewhat lower availability and increased toughness compared to the Hastati. It is usually a better idea to train Hastati because they can be retrained more easily, especially as the Julii who won't encounter many developed cities before the Marian Reforms. The effect of Experience also can dwarf the difference between these 2 units.
Principes are the best Legion style Heavy Infantry available to the Romans before the Marian Reforms. The next level barracks produces Triarii, who are elite Spearmen.