Date No-Dachi Samurai (TWS2 Unit)

Date No-Dachi Samurai (TWS2 Unit)
Class	Sword Infantry
Recruitment Cost	700
Upkeep Cost	125
Requires	Clan: Date Buildings: No-Dachi Dojo
Melee Attack	16
Charge Bonus	32
Bonus vs Cavalry	0
Melee Defence	2
Armour	2
Morale	10
Speed	4

Description

These foot warriors carry large and heavy no-dachi swords and have a fearsome charge when in battle.

These samurai are armed with the no-dachi. These are extremely heavy, long swords that can only be wielded by the strongest and most skilled of men. These swords can do a lot of damage and the no-dachi samurai use them for devastating charges into infantry, where they can often break through defensive lines. Only very brave men charge into the enemy on foot, but no-dachi samurai are known for their high morale. They are shock troops and not particularly effective when defending, especially against cavalry and missile troops.

Historically, the no-dachi was a much longer and heavier sword than the more famous katana. It required considerable strength to lift and swing, and the sheer size of it stopped any use in confined spaces. Instead, it was used in open field battles or against mounted warriors. In peaceful times it could be worn to display status but, rather than being hung from the waist like a tachi or katana, this mighty sword was slung across the shoulder.

Strengths & Weaknesses

• Infantry units who excel in close-quarter melee.
• Vulnerable to cavalry and to missile units.