Varangian Guard (M2TW Unit)

Varangian Guard (M2TW Unit)
Class	Heavy Infantry
Unit Size	48
Weaponry	Axe
Morale	11
Melee Attack	20
Ranged Attack	NA
Defence	5
Charge Bonus	6
Accuracy	NA
Range	NA
Ammunition	NA
Region	Global
Recruitment Cost	520
Upkeep Cost	175
Turns to Build	1
Unit Limit	6
Building Requirements	Militia Barracks
Technology Requirements	None
Attributes	Can withdraw Hardy Hide forest Sea faring

The Varangian guard are superb two-handed axemen, protected by heavy armour.

Overview

The most famous of all Byzantine units, made up wholly of Scandinavians and Englishmen, The Varangian guard were initially a military levy sent to the Byzantine emperor from the 'Rus' which are now a permanent unit often used as royal bodyguards. These superbly skilled warriors wield two-handed axes with vicious abandon, hacking down the Emperor's enemies.

Details

The Varangian Guard is an exceptional unit, which is one of the best infantry in the game. Unlike other two-handed Axemen they are fairly tough units, so their superior stats make them the best choice of their class. Their extremely high attack(20) combined with the armour piercing ability of their axe means that they are near unstoppable against infantry, heavy or light. They can stand up to most cavalry except for the most elite cavalry units, and their armour and shield provides them with protection against missiles. When charged they take a lot of damage from elite cavalry, but in melee their animation brings them down very quickly.

They are also relatively cheap for heavy infantry and if it you though it could not come any better, they are also recruitable from cities. They are roughly 50 florins less per turn to maintain than the second-best melee unit available to the Byzantines, the Dismounted Latinkon, as well as being superior in nearly all their stats. Overall, the Varangian Guard is one of the most elite units available to any faction and one should be afraid if coming up against them.

Factions

• The Byzantine Empire