Silver Shield Pikemen (RTW Unit)
Silver shield pikemen are the best of the Seleucid pikemen, well disciplined and not likely to tire quickly.
Overview
The silver shield pikemen (or argyraspids) are the embodiment of Seleucid martial prowess. They are elite foot soldiers on which many a battle will turn; they are well disciplined and physically fit, so these troops will neither panic nor tire easily. These men use the 6m long pike (sarissa) and carry a small shield coated in silver that gives them their name. To carry the silver shield into battle is the realization of many a Seleucid boy’s dream, though only renowned men of higher birth would automatically qualify for such an honour.
Once in phalanx formation the silver shield pikemen are an almost immovable object unless attacked from the flanks. If the fighting becomes too intense and cramped, they can use their short swords.
Details
The best Seleucid Phalanx the Silver Shields are good troops and are great coupled with Silver Shield Legionaries. They are similar to Phlanax Pikemen, but have superior attack and morale. However they are no match for the toughest Infantry of other factions such as Sacred Band. They are late game units and pikes lose some of their edge in the late game as more enemies have enough armour to get through and engage, especially Legionaries.
Their defence is low for an elite unit, only 1 point higher than Phalanx Pikemen. Their attack is good though and their high morale, discipline and numbers helps them in holding the line. They will also crush enemies with low defense even better than their predecessors and eliminate pretty much any cavalry.
Compared to the preceding Phalanx Pikemen, their stats are not that much better. However their morale, discipline and stamina are quite a bit better, which will help them hold out for much longer and not break from morale shocks.
Like most Pikemen, they have 240 men. They have very high upkeep accordingly, and take 2 turns to train.