Cataphract Archers (RTW Unit)
| Cataphract Archers (RTW Unit) | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Class | Horse Archer |
| Unit Size | 120 |
| Weaponry | Bow, Sword |
| Morale | 8 |
| Melee Attack | 9 |
| Ranged Attack | 7 |
| Defence | 22 |
| Charge Bonus | 5 |
| Accuracy | N/A |
| Range | 170 |
| Ammunition | 30 |
| Region | Global |
| Recruitment Cost | 1230 |
| Upkeep Cost | 190 |
| Turns to Build | 2 |
| Unit Limit | N/A |
| Building Requirements | Cavalry Stables |
| Technology Requirements | N/A |
| Attributes | Can hide in forests, can form Cantabrian Circle |
Cataphract archers are very heavily armoured, but slow, horse-archers that are almost impervious to attacks and can fight in close combat.
Overview
Cataphract archers are very heavily armoured, but slow, horse-archers that are almost impervious to attacks and can fight in close combat. They are not as armoured as cataphract lancers, yet most enemy missiles are turned aside quite easily. Mobility and speed have been sacrificed to provide protection. Their composite bows allow them to attack enemies at long range, but they also carry swords so that - if needs be - they can close up and fight hand-to-hand. The weight of cataphract archers means that they are 'heavier' than most shock cavalry but this is not their primary purpose. Being able to fight in close combat should be seen as a bonus to their primary abilities.
Details
Cataphract Archers are extremely tough horse archers, and the most powerful unit from a tier 2 stables by far. They have the same missile attack as the rest and but they have the very heavy Cataphract armour to resist counter fire and have long range as well. They aren't immune to archers particularly on higher difficulties but they are pretty close. They also have a high melee attack for horse archers so they can more than handle themselves in melee. Against light cavalry they can often countercharge when the enemy is close and crush them in melee. Their lack of shields makes them somewhat vulnerable but with so much armour it matters little unless against Armour Piercing enemies. This is a great unit that can do many things.
They will tire quickly in their heavy armour, particularly as horse archers are almost always moving and Armenia starts with desert provinces. You should never use the Cantabrian Circle with this unit as it will just tire them even faster. Additionally despite appearances Cataphracts are a much better choice for melee because they have a secondary Armour-Piercing Weapon.
They have high morale and are highly trained.
Factions
Armenia