Unit Descriptions

[Varjon]

Idea of this thread is to ask all you TA:TW fans to help team with making of unit descriptions. Our team lacks native English speakers and it would be nice if you would help us with this job.

By the way, if you make good unit descriptions you will receive reputation from team members.

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green = description finsihed

---------ALL CURRENT FACTIONS COMPLETETD--------

Example:
{Armored_Sergeants} Armoured Sergeants
{Armored_Sergeants_descr}
Armoured Sergeants are professional warriors, drawn from the lower classes. They have some skill in combat and are well equipped with long spears, large shields and mail armour. They're very solid defensive units, able to resist attacks from both foot and horse, so long as they are well supported. If necessary they can form a defensive circle.
{Armored_Sergeants_descr_short}
Trained and hardened warriors protected by a large shield and mail. Armed with spears and able to form a defensive ring of spears.


GONDOR
{Axemen_of_Lossarnach} Axemen of Lossarnach
{Axemen_of_Lossarnach_descr}Lossarnach, flowered vales and fertile land of the White Mountains brings fierce warriors to Gondor's forces. Warriors, who are slightly swarthier and shorter than other men in Gondor, are bearing great battle-axes and are being well-armed. They are great unit for shock attacks and for bloody close combats.
{Axemen_of_Lossarnach_descr_short}Experienced warriors protected by a chain mail and armed with a tall two-handed axe.
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{Dismounted_Kofm} Gondor Militia (formerly Dismounted Knights of Dol Amroth)
{Dismounted_Kofm_descr}
{Dismounted_Kofm_descr_short}
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{Gondor_Infantry} Gondor Infantry
{Gondor_Infantry_descr}
{Gondor_Infantry_descr_short}
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{Dismounted_Swan_Knights} Dismounted Swan Knights
{Dismounted_Swan_Knights_descr}
{Dismounted_Swan_Knights_descr_short}
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{Gondor_Spearmen} Gondor Spearmen
{Gondor_Spearmen_descr}
{Gondor_Spearmen_descr_short}
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{Kingsguard} Kings' Guard
{Kingsguard_descr}
{Kingsguard_descr_short}
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{Fountain_Guard} Fountain Guard
{Fountain_Guard_descr}
{Fountain_Guard_descr_short}
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{Gondor_Archers} Gondor Archers
{Gondor_Archers_descr}
{Gondor_Archers_descr_short}
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{Ithilien_Rangers} Ithilien Rangers
{Ithilien_Rangers_descr}
{Ithilien_Rangers_descr_short}
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{Dol_Amroth_Knights} Mounted Militia
{Dol_Amroth_Knights_descr}
{Dol_Amroth_Knights_descr_short}
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{Gondor_Cavalry} Gondor Cavalry
{Gondor_Cavalry_descr}
{Gondor_Cavalry_descr_short}
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{Swan_Knights} Swan Knights
{Swan_Knights_descr}
{Swan_Knights_descr_short}
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HIGH ELVES
{Elf_Archer} Light Elven Archers
{Elf_Archer_descr}
{Elf_Archer_descr_short}
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{Elf_Archer2} Elven Archers
{Elf_Archer2_descr}
{Elf_Archer2_descr_short}
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{Elf_Archer3} Noldor Archers
{Elf_Archer3_descr}
{Elf_Archer3_descr_short}
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{Elf_Sword} Noldor Swordsmen
{Elf_Sword_descr}
{Elf_Sword_descr_short}
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{Elf_Spear} Elven Spearmen
{Elf_Spear_descr}
{Elf_Spear_descr_short}
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{Elf_Guard} Silvan Heavy Archers
{Elf_Guard_descr}
{Elf_Guard_descr_short}
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{Elf_Nobel} Warriors of Mithlond
{Elf_Nobel_descr}
{Elf_Nobel_descr_short}
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{Elf_Nobel_Mount} Elven Nobels
{Elf_Nobel_Mount_descr}
{Elf_Nobel_Mount_descr_short}
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HARAD
{Southron_Lancers} Southron Lancers
{Southron_Lancers_descr}
{Southron_Lancers_descr_short}
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{Raiders_Cavalry} Haradrim Raiders
{Raiders_Cavalry_descr}
{Raiders_Cavalry_descr_short}
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{Dismounted_Serpent_Guard} Dismounted Serpent Guard
{Dismounted_Serpent_Guard_descr}
{Dismounted_Serpent_Guard_descr_short}
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{Serpent_Guard} Serpent Guard
{Serpent_Guard_descr}
{Serpent_Guard_descr_short}
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{Southron_Archers} Southron Archers
{Southron_Archers_descr}
{Southron_Archers_descr_short}
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{Southron_Spearmen} Southron Spearmen
{Southron_Spearmen_descr}
{Southron_Spearmen_descr_short}
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{Southron_Pikemen} Southron Pikemen
{Southron_Pikemen_descr}
{Southron_Pikemen_descr_short}
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{Beastmaster} Beastmasters
{Beastmaster_descr}
{Beastmaster_descr_short}
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{Beastmaster_Cav} Mounted Beastmasters
{Beastmaster_Cav_descr}
{Beastmaster_Cav_descr_short}
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{Harad_Archers} Harad Archers
{Harad_Archers_descr}
{Harad_Archers_descr_short}
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{Desert_Spearmen} Desert Spearmen
{Desert_Spearmen_descr}
{Desert_Spearmen_descr_short}
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{Corsairs} Corsairs
{Corsairs_descr}
{Corsairs_descr_short}
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{Corsair_Archers} Corsair Archers
{Corsair_Archers_descr}
{Corsair_Archers_descr_short}
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{Hasharii} Hasharii
{Hasharii_descr}
{Hasharii_descr_short}
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{Mumakil} Mumakil
{Mumakil_descr}
{Mumakil_descr_short}


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[Roger the Shrubber]

Yes, I am naturally an English speaker so I can help maybe write some, or make edits for the one you write, so they are perfect English, I would really like to help!

[Jean=A=Luc]

The problem with some units is that we don't know their stats/abilities. Even though we can easily tell the general strength level of a unit we don't know if they, for example, have flame arrows, ap arrows, heavy armour, good morale, strong charge etc., things that might be important when writing a description. Also if light elven archers are a militia unit, are Noldor archers good/decent at melee (being Noldor an' all) or why are Sylvan archers in the High Elven unit roster.

[EVYATAR]

yea, I whant to help in some way

[Jean=A=Luc]

Would something like this be ok?

{Elf_Archer} Light Elven Archers
{Elf_Archer_descr}Even as the Elder Days approach their final nightfall and many of the Firstborn retreat to the Undying Lands, proud hearts of the High Elves still yearn to nurture and protect what remains of Middle Earth's beauty that they themselves along with their ancestors fought so hard to create and preserve. In honor of that sacrifice these oldest citizens of Middle Earth take up sword and bow to do their part in the struggle against Sauron and anyone who would threaten their homes. Although unprofessional and lightly armed by elven standards all elves posses grace and skill that surpasses that of most other creatures and only a fool would dismiss these archers and their elven short bows as a non-factor on the battlefield. As every elven life is precious these light troops should be kept in supporting positions unexposed to cavalry or heavy infantry assaults.
{Elf_Archer_descr_short}Light archers with minimal protection and a long sword.


ps: it should be elven "nobles", not nobels.

[King Kong]

Hi Jean=A=luc,

This is very good! Thanks for your help.
The main description is maybe a bit long, but since it is very good that doesn't matter actually.

You're right that you do not know the unit abilities and so on, but that's not a big problem, since things like "fire arrows" or "high morale" aren't usually listed in the description, because they are read from the unit stats.
Also, if you would mention something (for example "can build defense ring of spears) that the unit doesn't have, we will correct it later.

You're also right about the ownership of this elves because there ae actually elves from both, high and silvan elves, but that doesn't matter for the description.

So, keep up the good work. We appreciate every help!

[traxx91]

Okay, here's my try on the Gondor Infantry.

{Gondor_Infantry}Gondor Infantry
{Gondor_Infantry_descr}These well-trained and heavily armored swordsmen form the backbone of every gondorian infantry line. While beeing comparatively slow due to their heavy armor, they should be respect for their excellent close combat fighting skills. They are part of the profesional and standing gondorian army and are based at the four central military bases: Minas Thirith (Minas Anor), Minas Morgul (Minas Ithil), Pelagir and Linhir.
{Gondor_Infantry_descr_short}Heavy Infantry armed with a sword and a wooden shield.

[bingster088]

Nice.

[Mithrandir]

One thing, traxx91. The shields are covered with a thin layer of metal, aren't they?

[Jean=A=Luc]

{Elf_Spear} Elven Spearmen
{Elf_Spear_descr}Taking their lessons from such great battles that changed the face of Arda like Dagor Bragollach, Nirnaeth Arnoediad or the War of the Last Alliance, High Elves know what it means to "hold the line". Despite the Firstborn's decline this proud legacy lives on in the ranks of elven spearmen. Elven mail reinforced by fine leather to cushion the blow behind a sturdy leaf shaped iron (is it iron?) shield provides premium protection while the almost 3 metres long razor sharp spear with a slightly curved blade suitable for slashing as well as thrusting beckons most enemies to keep their distance or perish. All this coupled with the Elves' determination to stand against the darkness makes the elven spear wall one of, if not the most formidable battle line in all of Middle Earth.
{Elf_Spear_descr_short}Defensive heavy infantry equipped with long spears and large shields.

Yeah, they are a bit on the longish side. It's just my style, I like long sentences and elaborate descriptions but it might not be the most suitable style for these kinds of descriptions. I'll try to keep it under control or at least justify it with quality. I'm always open to (constructive) criticism.

You're right that you do not know the unit abilities and so on, but that's not a big problem, since things like "fire arrows" or "high morale" aren't usually listed in the description, because they are read from the unit stats.

Well, for example, depending on the unit's morale the description could say that those particular troops are "brave", "unwavering" or "cowardly" so there can be a correlation but as you said, you can easily correct things like that.

EDIT: Here's one more for tonight :

{Elf_Nobel} Warriors of Mithlond
{Elf_Nobel_descr}Coming from a long line of shipbuilders and seafarers these Sindarin warriors under the leadership of Cirdan the Shipwright make sure that the Grey Heavens remain safe from any threats and open to any of their kin who have heeded the call to sail into the West. With the memories of the ravaging of their ancient lands of Falas and the razing of their coastal cities of Brithombar and Eglarest still fresh in their immortal minds, Mithlond's warriors are completely dedicated to the protection of their kin and will gladly take up the sword to aid the elven cause even if it means venturing beyond Mithlond's gates away from their beloved shores. Wherever they go they carry with them their love of the sea displayed by the blue hues that adorn their fine armour.
{Elf_Nobel_descr_short}Heavy infantry armed with a long sword and a large shield.

[Ultra_Magnus]

{Mumakil} Mumakil
{Mumakil_descr}These great beasts come from the southern reaches of Harad, normally used as beasts of burdens, they have been converted for use in war. Carrying a mighty tower on their backs, they are able to carry many Haradrim archers allowing them to fire on the ennemy from above. A Mumak's skin is extremly thick making it invulnerable to archers. The only known way to kill one is to shoot it in the eye.
{Mumakil_descr_short}Huge animals carrying archers on their backs. Frighten horses.

There is my attempt. Sorry im not very good at this sort of stuff but anything to help out.

[Lü Bu]

No,no,this is pretty good! :wink:

[Jean=A=Luc]

{Elf_Guard} Silvan Heavy Archers
{Elf_Guard_descr}These excellent warriors hail from the timeless woodland kingdom of Lorien where they serve as forest wardens and protectors of Galadriel's domain. Centuries of combat experience inside forested areas makes them superb ambushers and snipers who combine stealth and versatility with deadly results. Their long leather coats provide good protection while allowing for the mobility needed to wield their powerful longbows and two-handed curved blades. Fiercely loyal to their Noldorin Lady Lorien's finest march out against the elves' foes at Her behest.
{Elf_Guard_descr_short}Medium infantry armed with longbows and short two-handed curved blades.

I portrayed them as Galadrim because Galadriel is a Noldo elf which provides the high elven connection and also because her people were indeed of Silvan origin so it all kinda fits. Also, looking at the screenshots, I got the impression that the "Heavy Silvan Archers" are more than just archers and have portrayed them as such, hope it's ok.

{Elf_Archer2} Elven Archers
{Elf_Archer2_descr}These regulars form the core of the elves' standing armies and are rightfully admired by their allies as well as feared by their enemies having earned their reputation over the course of millennia. Mortal peoples can hope to match their skill with the bow only with a lifetime of practice while their elven mail and swords provide them with acceptable close combat endurance. Even though the Eldar races are on a decline these soldiers are the living proof that their passion for life and beauty still endures.
{Elf_Archer2_descr_short}Medium archers wearing chain-mail and armed with elven bows and swords.

[King Kong]

1st post updated....


@ Jean=A=Luc,

Thanks for the great descriptions! I really like your writing style.
more elves please...


@ traxx,

Also, thanks for the good description! Keep it up.
And Mithrandir is, right that the Gondor shield are not purely wooden, I think, but that's no problem since we can correct that later...

[Jean=A=Luc]

{Elf_Sword} Noldor Swordsmen
{Elf_Sword_descr}These are the kindred of Feanor, Fingolfin, Galadriel, proud, arrogant, kin slayers and sinners but also the greatest heroes and protectors Middle Earth has ever known. These veterans of countless battles have witnessed unimaginable horrors and faced the greatest foes Middle Earth has to offer. Their deep timeless eyes recount the greatest joys and deepest sorrows of ages past and their burning hearts yearn for revenge. To that end all Noldorin warriors make a new Oath, one that will result in Evil's utter annihilation. With their supremely crafted elven swords they will cut a swathe through enemy lines and strike a final blow to the heart of darkness itself.
{Elf_Sword_descr_short}Ancient warriors of sublime skill and unwavering will equipped with the best armour and swords elven craftsmanship has to offer. (Gah, too long?)

{Elf_Archer3} Noldor Archers
{Elf_Archer3_descr}It is said that Noldor archers are the Rain of Death that precedes the Whirlwind unleashed by their sword wielding comrades. With keen eyes, ages worth of experience and arrows capable of piercing dragon scales Noldorin bowmen can decimate the ranks of their foes before the battle is even properly joined. Despite their supporting role in the army battlefields are littered with corpses of enemies who foolishly believed that getting into melee range of these warriors would provide them with sufficient advantage. The benefit of Noldorin skill, craftsmanship and spirit ensures that these archers will not be easily routed even when properly countered.
{Elf_Archer3_descr_short}Elite archers equipped with the finest armour and swords elven smiths can offer.


{Elf_Nobel_Mount} Elven Nobels
{Elf_Nobel_Mount_descr}"A Elbereth Gilthoniel o menel palan-díriel, le nallon sí di'-nguruthos! A tíro nin, Fanuilos!" It is the cry of all elves who have seen the light and still long for it. An elven prince and his entourage will call for the Star Queen as they charge, spears lowered, into the ranks of the enemy, to look upon them in their hour of glory and sacrifice. Under the bright gaze of their most beloved goddess death can be faced without fear and moments of greatest valor may be born amid the direst of circumstances as the entire elven host becomes inspired, their spirit rekindled. The elite heavy cavalrymen never leave their Lord's side and will shield him with their very bodies dying with Elbereth's name on their lips if need be.
{Elf_Nobel_Mount_descr_short}Heavy cavalry general bodyguard. (not sure what else to put here)

The translation of that part of the "A Elbereth Gilthoniel" poem/hymn is: O Elbereth Star-kindler, from heaven gazing afar,
to thee I cry now beneath the shadow of death! O look towards me, Everwhite!

[Varjon]

Very good job with elven descriprions Jean!

[Glorfindel]

nice!

[jakk o'slovakk]

{Ithilien_Rangers} Ithilien Rangers
{Ithilien_Rangers_descr} Because of Gondor has been target for attacks from east for almost all of it's existence, Ithilien rangers were founded. They are eccelent ambushers and are at their home in woods of Ithelien. Their biggest weaknesses is their few numbers because of small number of people who know Ithilien and their lack of armour.
{Ithilien_Rangers_descr_short} Gondorian archers who can fight with swords when needed and are specialised in ambushes.

Sorry for all mistakes I propoably made.

[Erunion Telcontar]

Here is my first attempt, hope it's not too horrible...
(Err, I was fairly certain that the King's Guard had been renamed the Guard of the Citadel when the last king died and the stewards came to power....)

{Kingsguard} Kings' Guard
{Kingsguard_descr}
"You are soldiers of Gondor, no matter what comes through that gate you will stand your ground!"
The King's Guard is an ancient and revered force of soldiers. At one time, they were tasked with the protection of the King, but now are guardians of the Mighty Citadel of Minas Tirith. Well trained and highly proffesional, these men can be relied upon to hold their ground wherever they are sent. Wielding long spears and strong shields forged from oak and steel, these men are to be feared upon the battlefield.
Requires Minas Tirith to recruit.
{Kingsguard_descr_short} Elite heavy spearman unit with heavy armour and strong shield.

[Erunion Telcontar]

Second attempt.

{Gondor_Archers} Gondor Archers
{Gondor_Archers_descr}
Even though they lack the innate talent of the Elves, and the centuries in which to practice, the Gondorian archers are not to be underestimated. These Longbowmen come from a long and glorious tradition of archery, which can be dated back to the times of Numenor and the fabled bows of steel that were then used. These soldiers are well trained and highly effective in times of war, Their excellent Gondorian armour will protect these units from ranged, as well as close combat.
{Gondor_Archers_descr_short} Strong longbow unit with good armour.