Eastern Infantry (RTW Unit)

Eastern Infantry (RTW Unit)
Class	Spearmen
Unit Size	240
Weaponry	Spear
Morale	2
Melee Attack	3
Ranged Attack	N/A
Defence	10
Charge Bonus	1
Accuracy	N/A
Range	N/A
Ammunition	N/A
Region	Global
Recruitment Cost
Upkeep Cost	150
Turns to Build	1
Unit Limit	None
Building Requirements	Barracks
Technology Requirements	None
Attributes	None

Eastern infantry are easily recruited militia-spearmen, who are good for defence against less able opponents.

Overview

Eastern infantry are easily recruited militia-spearmen, who are good for defence against less able opponents. They are drawn from among the peasantry and urban poor, given minimal training and sent into battle. They are, however, given large shields. Individually, they are not outstanding warriors, but as a group they have their uses in holding off light cavalry; even medium and heavier troops will be unwilling to charge into a forest of spear points.

Details

Eastern Infantry are some of the weakest infantry in RTW. Their horrible attack and very low morale make them practically useless in many battles. Their only redeeming features are that they have +8 attack against cavalry and that there are 240 of them so their numbers give them a little bit of longevity. If you must use them, use them in numbers to hold a line and hope their morale holds long enough for the cavalry to save them. In the right circumstances against weak enemies this can work but understand that most light infantry will destroy them quickly and even lighter cavalry may be tough enough to crush their pitiful morale. If they are flanked while fighting they are as good as dead. Do not think that because they are spearmen they can fight a generals bodyguard, the general will do a ton of damage on the charge and then they'll panic and run away.

A strong generals rally horn makes them less terrible, since their morale is their biggest problem, but they are never great units.

They make good fodder for arrows as well, since they have acceptable defense and are disposable, and can be useful to defend the town square.

On paper they may look better than the Hillmen, but numbers do not matter much when you are so cowardly that you run away after a couple dozen losses. These men should be used as garrisons and field armies should use the Hillmen instead, assuming you must choose between the two.