Iberian Infantry (RTW unit)
These infantry are the steady backbone of the armies of Carthage and Spain. Reliable, well-armed and tough, they are armed with falcatas to cut a path into an enemy line.
Overview
Iberian infantry are fast moving close combat infantry. They may not be the best trained troops, but they are cost effective warriors. They are one of the basic units available to generals in the Carthaginian-influenced world. Every Iberian infantryman carries a shield in addition to his short sword, but his only other protection is a helmet; he relies on speed and agility instead of armor. They are best employed against enemy spearmen and, like other infantry, can be vulnerable to cavalry attacks.
Details
As a whole, Iberian Infantry are mediocre troops. The Iberian Infantry’s statistics are low compared to units in a similar tier such as the Barbarian Warband, Roman Hastati and Greek Hoplites, particularly in defense. All of those units have significant advantages that make them far better as an early battleline, and while Iberian Infantry have a significantly lower recruitment cost then these units, they have comparable upkeep, which matters more in the long run. A large army of Iberian Infantry will wear down an early economy and offer little in return against a strong opponent.
All that having been said, they are fast and have decent attack damage. They can be used to hold enemies for a short time while the cavalry maneuver to flank, or as flankers themselves where their defense won't matter as much. However, one should be aware of their limited defense and morale, and having a good general nearby is important for these men. Generally, Spanish and Carthaginian Generals should rely on the Round Shield cavalry to be the main army until better infantry is available.
They can be more worthwhile in multiplayer matches with lower amounts of money as they are cheap and their upkeep becomes irrelevant. They also are an upgrade to the abysmal Town Militia.