Page 1 of 16 1234567891011 ... LastLast
Results 1 to 20 of 319

Thread: Unit descriptions

Hybrid View

Previous Post Previous Post   Next Post Next Post
  1. #1
    apple's Avatar Searching for 42
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Location
    Stockholm Sweden
    Posts
    11,780

    Default Unit descriptions

    Please read trough this.

    Firstly post your description here (the draft tread) where it will be corrected if needed. Make sure that all corrections have been and then post it here.

    Specific which faction the description is for so that It's essayer for me to find it and cross it of the list.

    Post all the finale descriptions here formated as this example:
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Achaian Hoplites

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {achaian_hoplite} Achaian Hoplite
    {achaian_hoplite_descr} Achaians were one of the main four tribes of the Greek mainland situated in northern Peloponnese although their true origins are still hotly debated. In early 3rd century BC they formed the Achaian League originally consisting of city-states that shared a common "Achaian" ethnicity. The League was often the focal point for conflicts serving the interests of greater powers like the Macedonians or the Ptolomeic Empire but despite this the League eventually gained control of the entire Peloponnesian penninsula even apsorbing Sparta into its confederation. However the League's dominance was short lived and came to an abrupt end after it's subjugation by the Romans under Lucius Achaicus Mummius. In the beginnig the Achaians fielded traditional hoplite armies like the rest of the poleis but as the art of war evolved so did the hoplites and, approximately after 270BC, the slow and heavy hoplite formations were replaced by the lighter, more peltast-like Thureophoroi which were soon followed by the adoption of the Macedonian phalanx. These hoplites bear on their shields the AX monogram of the Achaian league together with a dolphin, symbol of their home city of Patrai.
    {achaian_hoplite_descr_short} Though hoplites are a dying breed their good staying power makes them suitable for guarding flanks and holding the line.



    Somebody (a volunteer) should add those that are done to the game later on. (as fast as possible as we want our beta testers to try them out for errors.)
    Last but not least have some rep, you are all doing a great job and I enjoy reading all of your fantastic texts. Here is the EU provided by Dvk. http://www.twcenter.net/forums/attac...8&d=1247520111

    For any further questions send me a pm.



    Done:


    A
    Aperantoi Toxotai

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Primary Armour = Flesh\nCan Fire Incendiary Missiles\n\nArchers are rightly feared for the casualties they can inflict, but they are vulnerable in hand-to-hand combat.\n\nThey are drawn from the peasant classes of all societies, as these are the people who need to be skilled hunters in order to survive. Learning to use a bow well is something that takes a lifetime and constant practice, and putting food on the table provides good practice.\n\nThey are best used to weaken enemy formations, or placed in a spot where they can retreat and find protection from other troops.


    Ala I Gallorum et Pannoniorum Catafractata

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {ala_i_gemina} Ala I Gallorum et Pannoniorum Catafractata

    {ala_i_gemina_descr}
    Disciplined\n\nThe cataphract was widely adopted by the Seleucid Empire, the Hellenistic successors of Alexander the Great's kingdom who reigned over conquered Persia and Asia minor after his death in 323 BC. The Parthians, who finally wrested control over Persia from the Seleucids Kingdom, were also noted for their reliance upon cataphracts as well as horse archers in battle.\n\nThe Romans came to know cataphracts during their frequent wars in the Hellenistic East. During their early encounters, cataphracts remained ineffective against the Roman foot-soldier, being decisively defeated in the Battle of Magnesia (189 BC) and in the battle of Lucullus with Tigran the Great near Tigranocerta in 69 BC. In 38 BC, the able Roman general Publius Ventidius, by making extensively use of slingers whose long range weapons proved very effective, defeated the uphill-storming Parthian armoured cavalry, forcing the Parthians to retreat from all Roman territories occupied since Carrhae.\n\nAt the time of Augustus, the Greek geographer Strabo considered cataphracts with horses armour to be typical of Armenian, Albanian, and Midian armies, but, according to Plutarch, they were still held in rather low esteem due to their poor tactical abilities against disciplined infantry as well as against light cavalry. However, the lingering period of exposure to cataphracts at the eastern frontier as well as the growing military pressure of the Sarmatian lance riders on the Danube frontier led to a gradual integration of cataphracts into the Roman army. Thus, although armoured riders were used in the Roman army as early as the 2nd century BC (Polybios, VI, 25, 3), the first recorded deployment and use of cataphracts by the Roman Empire comes in the 2nd Century AD, during the reign of emperor Hadrian (117-138 AD), who created the Ala I Gallorum et Pannoniorum catafractata. A key architect in the process was evidently the Roman emperor Gallienus who created a highly mobile force in response to the multiple threats along the northern and eastern frontier. However, as late as 272 AD, Aurelian's army completely composed of light cavalry defeated Zenobia at the Battle of Immae, proving the continuing importance of mobility on the battle field.\n\nAs a result of this lingering period of exposure to cataphracts, by the fourth century the Roman Empire had adopted a number of vexillations of mercenary cataphract cavalry (see the Notitia Dignitatum), such as the Sarmatian Auxiliaries. The Romans deployed both native and mercenary units of cataphracts throughout the Empire, from Asia Minor all the way to Britain, where a contingent of 5,500 Sarmatian cataphracts were posted in the 2nd century by emperor Marcus Aurelius.

    {ala_i_gemina_descr_short}
    Ala I Gallorum et Pannoniorum Catafractata: Heavily armored Roman cavalry.


    Ala Gallorum Atectorigiana

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {ala_v_gallorum} Ala Gallorum Atectorigiana

    {ala_v_gallorum_descr}
    Disciplined\n\nThis ala is known to have existed from the time of Augustus or perhaps Caesar, its first record appears in an inscription from Saintes.
    Its title is generally believed to have been derived from that of a Gallic notable, Atectorix, whose name was attributed to the Gallic Pictones by A. Holder. Its early history remains uncertain. E. Stein considered it not improbable that it may have been in Germania before its move to Moesia but there is no record of its presence there. A diploma is the earliest indication that the ala was in Moesia inferior although it is attested in a
    diploma of ca. 152–154 and may also be recorded in diplomas of 145 and 161. Further, there is good epigraphic evidence of its attribution to the province in the later second and early third centuries. A heavily ligatured inscription from Rjahovo (Appiaria), set up by a prefect of the ala to his wife, may imply that its station in the late second or third century was on the Danubian limes west of Transmarisca.

    {ala_v_gallorum_descr_short}
    Ala Gallorum Atectorigiana: Highly disciplined and skilled cavalrymen who provide support to Roman legionaries in battle.


    Allied Skirmisher

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {allied_velite} Allied Skirmisher

    {allied_velite_descr}
    Primary Armor = Flesh\nCan Hide in Long Grass\n\nThe Roman allied skirmisher was drawn from allied and conquered communities, the socii. Another term in general use for the socii was auxilia, supporting troops, or cohortes alariae. These forces were divided into several types but the most important were the Italic socii or allies. Among these the socii nominis Latinis, the allies of the Latin league, were the most prominent. Generally the majority of these Italic allies were staunchly loyal to the Roman cause. Even after the series of disastrous defeats inflicted by Hannibal only a minority of Italic communities defected to the enemy. The Italic socii were occasionally rewarded for their services by the granting of Latin rights or Roman citizenship. The increasing rarity of these grants in the second century BC was one of the main causes of the Social War fought between Rome and her Italic allies.\n\nThis particular unit fights in the style of Roman Velite. They rarely wore armour, as they were the youngest and poorest soldiers in the legion, just as their Roman counterparts, and could not afford much equipment. They did carry small wooden shields for protection though, and wore a headdress made from wolf skin to allow officers to differentiate between them and other heavier warriors. Since they were used in tandom with other Roman regular soldiers, they were trained just a Roman Velite would be, so they was little distinction between them except that they were not Roman citizens.

    {allied_velite_descr_short}
    The Roman allied skirmisher, though not really 'Roman', is a unit supplied by the allied states under Rome's control. This unit fights in the style of Roman Velite.


    Allied Republican Cohort

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {allied_republic_legion} Allied Republican Cohort

    {allied_republic_legion_descr}
    Primary Armor = Metal\nHardy\nDisciplined\n\nThe Allied Republican Cohorts were drawn from allied and conquered communities; the socii. Another term in general use for the socii was auxilia, supporting troops, or cohortes alariae. These forces were divided into several types but the most important were the Italic socii or allies. Among these the socii nominis Latinis, the allies of the Latin league, were the most prominent. Generally the majority of these Italic allies were staunchly loyal to the Roman cause. Even after the series of disastrous defeats inflicted by Hannibal only a minority of Italic communities defected to the enemy. The Italic socii were occasionally rewarded for their services by the granting of Latin rights or Roman citizenship. The increasing rarity of these grants in the second century BC was one of the main causes of the Social War fought between Rome and her Italic allies.\n\nThe pressures of invasion by Carthage and the need for a larger, more ominous looking front to the enemy led the Romans to gradually shift their tactics when it came to troop dispersment. Although records are sparse, some accounts report that the old 'Hastati' and 'Principe' manipules were merged nearly into one unit, called for the first time a 'cohort'. These men fight and look just like the Principes of the past, but their numbers are greater, and you cannot tell 'Hastati' from 'Principe'. It could well be that the younger men fought more bravely and better with the more experienced soldiers at their sides. Used mainly to counter Hannibal and his forces in Italy, it's evident that after the 2nd Punic War Roman military tactics were never the same. This unit fights with a thrown 'pilum' released at the enemy in a powerful volley, and then engages with the Roman 'Gladius', a short sword that is very useful in the Legionary style of fighting.

    {allied_republic_legion_descr_short}
    These men represent the earliest use of the Roman Legionary Cohort.


    Allied Triarii

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {allied_triarii} Allied Triarii

    {allied_triarii_descr}
    Primary Armor = Metal\nHardy\nDisciplined\n\nThe Allied Triarii were drawn from allied and conquered communities; the socii. Another term in general use for the socii was auxilia, supporting troops, or cohortes alariae. These forces were divided into several types but the most important were the Italic socii or allies. Among these the socii nominis Latinis, the allies of the Latin league, were the most prominent. Generally the majority of these Italic allies were staunchly loyal to the Roman cause. Even after the series of disastrous defeats inflicted by Hannibal only a minority of Italic communities defected to the enemy. The Italic socii were occasionally rewarded for their services by the granting of Latin rights or Roman citizenship. The increasing rarity of these grants in the second century BC was one of the main causes of the Social War fought between Rome and her Italic allies.\n\nTriarii are tough heavy spearmen who make up the third and most senior part of a Roman Legion before the military Reforms of Gaius Marius. They carry a long "hoplite-style" spear (the hasta) which is used to thrust, a long shield and a gladius. They are the oldest veteran soldiers, and well armoured – hardly surprising, given that they are also drawn from the richest sections of Rome's allied societies.\n\nThey are the last available line in early-pattern Republican Legions. "Going to the triarii" is a Roman saying meaning carrying on to the bitter end, and if they are used it’s a sign that the moment of decision in a battle has arrived.\n\nHistorically, triarii spent their own money on their equipment and could afford to buy the best of everything.

    {allied_triarii_descr_short}
    Triarii are tough, experienced spearmen who are the senior element - the backbone - of an early Roman Legion. They can be a decisive force in battle.


    Achaian Hoplite

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Achaian_Hoplite} Achaian Hoplite
    {Achaian_Hoplite_descr} Achaians were one of the main four tribes of the Greek mainland situated in northern Peloponnese although their true origins are still hotly debated. In early 3rd century BC they formed the Achaian League originally consisting of city-states that shared a common "Achaian" ethnicity. The League was often the focal point for conflicts serving the interests of greater powers like the Macedonians or the Ptolomeic Empire but despite this the League eventually gained control of the entire Peloponnesian penninsula even apsorbing Sparta into its confederation. However the League's dominance was short lived and came to an abrupt end after it's subjugation by the Romans under Lucius Achaicus Mummius. In the beginnig the Achaians fielded traditional hoplite armies like the rest of the poleis but as the art of war evolved so did the hoplites and, approximately after 270BC, the slow and heavy hoplite formations were replaced by the lighter, more peltast-like Thureophoroi which were soon followed by the adoption of the Macedonian phalanx. These hoplites bear on their shields the AX monogram of the Achaian league together with a dolphin, symbol of their home city of Patrai.
    {Achaian_Hoplite_descr_short} Though hoplites are a dying breed their good staying power makes them suitable for guarding flanks and holding the line.
    Athenian Marines


    Achaian Elite Phalangites

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Achaian_Elite_Phalangites} Achaian Elite Phalangites
    {Achaian_Elite_Phalangites_descr} The Achaian army reached its peak under the great strategos Philopoemen who instilled in it the order and discipline needed to potentially unite the Greek world. By introducing the sarissa and the Macedonian phalanx to the Achaian League Philopoemen created many hardened veteran phalangites through his skillful leadership in many battles, like the ones at Larissus, Mantinea or Barbosthenian Mountains, in each one managing to inflict heavy casualties upon his Aetolian and Spartan enemies. The veterans were usually better protected with bronze breastplates and grieves or bronze reinforced linothorax which coupled with their experience allowed them to better deal with difficult situations like the breaking up of a formation or direct hand to hand melee. Additionaly purple cloaks and feathered helmets marked their high position as the League's finest. Their shields bear the AX monogram, showing their allegiance to the Achaian league, and above this a Pegasus indicating that they are citizens of Corinth. {Achaian_Elite_Phalangites_descr_short} Elite phalangites. Very difficult to break if properly supported.


    Achaian Phalangites

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Achaian_Phalangites} Achaian Phalangites
    {Achaian_Phalangites_descr} The Achaian League's Thureophoroi-based light infantry tactics proved ineffective on the open field so in 208 BC the Achaian general Philopoemen instituted wide military reforms that changed the League's armamants and fighting style. From then on the Armies of the Achaian League adopted more stationary tactics using long pikes along with heavier armour and shields akin to the Macedonian phalanx. These changes were already in effect in some of the League's cities like Megalopolis but only after Philopoemen's reforms did they become instituted across the entire confederation. Upon their shields was inscribed the wreathed AX monogram indicating their status as citizen-soldiers of the Achaian League. In addition these phalangites bear upon their shields a serpent, emblem of their city of Epidauros. Achaian phalangites gave a good account of themselves against their Spartan and Aetolian rivals but in the end could not withstand the power and innovation of the Roman war machine.
    {Achaian_Phalangites_descr_short} Achaian version of the Macedonian phalanx. Strong frontal attack and defense but very vulnerable flanks.


    Athenian Marine

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Athenian_Marine} Athenian Marine
    {Athenian_Marine_descr} It was her navy that propelled Athens to a position of wealth and power even allowing her to establish the great Delian League which at its height resembled an empire with Athens at its throne. Mighty triremes carried Athenian soldiers across the Aegean, Thracian, Ionian seas and beyond. Marines serving on these vessels participated in numerous expeditions including the Persian and Peloponnesian wars taking part in many ship-to-ship operations as well as assault landings. Compared to the land based armies marines were lighter and more flexible to accomodate the demands of naval warfare. During boarding and land battles they compensated for lighter armour with large hoplon shields bearing an image of a dolphin jumping over a trident against a background resembling a sun disc lighting up the open sea. Such depictions of devotion towards the sea god Poseidon were important for Athenian sea farers who feared the fickle and jealous god's retribution for chosing Athena over him as Athen' patron deity. Despite this Athenians were a major naval power almost throught their city-state's entire existence until the Battle of Chareonea 338 B.C. when they lost their independence to the Macedon.
    {Athenian_Marine_descr_short} Medium infantry with large round shields and short swords.


    Athenian Epilektoi

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Athenian_Epilektoi} Athenian Epilektoi
    {Athenian_Epilektoi_descr} These are the "chosen" men of Athens. The finest sprouts in all of Athena's olive gardens, grown strong and proud under the free sun of Greece. Keeping to the ways of their fathers the epilektoi fight in the traditional style of the hoplite providing a bulwark against the enemy around which more flexible and lighter friendly units may rally and reform. Aside from the typical 6-foot spear, short sword, bronze cuirass and greaves, the epilektoi of Athens wear a Thracian type helmet with a Phrygian cap which resembles a civilian hat, denoting their status as "free citizens", while the cheek pieces are often decorated to resemble a beard and moustache. Upon their shields, proudly emblazoned, stands the letter "A-lpha", the initial letter of their home-city as well as their patron goddess. Though the time of the hoplite is on the wane there is still a need for a strong centre and a firm battle line in the Greek army. On their own these heavy infantrymen are easy prey for more flexible armies but well supported they are still able to pin down and crush their opponents.
    {Athenian_Epilektoi_descr_short} Veteran hoplites from Athens. Slow and inflexible but still potent in head on clashes.


    B
    Brythonic Elite Skirmisher

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {britonic_elite_skirmisher} Brythonic Elite Skirmisher

    {britonic_elite_skirmisher_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\nThe Britons are an island full of ready warriors, and many of them are found swelling the ranks of skirmishers. They appear together in ever increasing numbers, bearing witness to the perfect aim and tactics that help make up theses skirmishers fighting for the Belgae. Besides their javelins, they bring a short sword to the battle and their shield giving them additional fighting chance when their javelins have been spent piercing the bodies of their foes. Virtually any lightly armoured opponent will feel the bite of these quick warriors in hand to hand combat, and they are quick enough to continually surprise attentive opponents with their lust for battle!\nThis band is considered true veterans from all over the Isles of Britain in the act of whittling away at the opponents numbers before battle is joined in earnest. As with the unique personalities of all warriors, the successful warrior did not always view the sword or axe, or even training with a cavalry wing, as the true manifestation of his abilities. The skirmisher role was open to all, and only the swiftest, cunning skirmishers in Britain would be invited into this rank of esteem and prestige. As long time participators in skirmishing, they help to train inexperienced youth eager for battle, as well as improve the overall technique of all combatants, keeping them all on par with each other in their chosen art form.

    {britonic_elite_skirmisher_descr_short}
    Brythonic Elite Skirmisher


    Barbarian Peltast

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {barb_peltast} Barbarian Peltast

    {barb_peltast_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\nThis warrior would begin his trial by battle as a skirmisher. At a young age, his father, uncle, or other male member of the tribe would introduce him to the javelin, and his aptitude for war was often judged by his performance while filling the role of a skirmisher. Armed with their clothing, their clutch of javelins, a round shield, and their own wits, these skirmishers are one of the fastest, if not the most mobile foot unit that the Celts can call upon. They often form up in battle as the last line an enemy must contend with before the real battle begins with the infantry. By a mighty volley of their javelins at approaching enemy infantry or cavalry, their missiles can help decimate a regiment and pick off slow moving foes, decreasing their offensive capability and threat to other friendly troops.\nMany skirmishers are members of the tribes that do not share an active professional interest in war, but offer themselves up to the benefit of the tribe during times of war, putting their lives up to the fortunes of war. Although all Celtic tribes elevated cavalry and infantry heroics in their culture, the role of a skirmisher was not overlooked. The inexperienced warrior needed to cut his teeth in a real battle in a role other than front line hand to hand combat, so the tribes made sure to have a contingent of these skirmishers present in force during raids and tribal conflicts.

    {barb_peltast_descr_short}
    Peltasts rush forward to pepper an enemy with spears, and then run away before a counter-attack can be organised.


    Brythonic Slinger

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {britonic_slinger} Brythonic Slinger

    {britonic_slinger_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\nElite slinger\n\nAlmost an elite unit in itself, the Brythonic slinger is notably the best slinger in northern Europe. The Britons have a strong emphasis on slinging as a warriors art form, though many Celtic tribes, on the mainland particularly, place little emphasis on the art of slinging overall. The Brythonic slingers carry a traditional shield for protection while they manage the sling on their other hand. Their small square shield is commonly found in parts of the island and is a distinctly British style.

    {britonic_slinger_descr_short}
    Slingers are a low cost, but very effective unit to have around.


    Barbarian Slinger

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {slinger} Barbarian Slinger

    {slinger_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\nSlingers are available low cost, but very effective unit to have around. They wear no armour and carry a short sword and a small leather bag full of these stones. Of all Celtic troops that are sent to battle, the slinger ranks among those that should never engage in melee unless absolutely needed. They can successfully melee with other slingers and archers, but little else. Their low equipment costs and ready availability of their favorite weapon, a smooth stone, provides the tribes with low cost troops that can kill enemies from a much greater distance than skirmishers and are found in all Gallic settlements. They are twice as deadly if they can quickly each positions behind the lines of their enemies where the protection of armour, bones, and skulls are all much easier to breech.\nThe art of slinging is very old, and is considered one of the first missile weapons to be invented by ancient man. Sling stones can be found in every land imaginable. The equipment of a slinger is not at all impressive, and it does not need to be. They carry on them a combination of items that will kill a person as quick as a lethal sword, axe, or spear strike from a veteran warrior, only this time, the mortal wound can come from a simple commoner or poor tribal member. The impact of a well released stone at high speeds would not always bounce off of armour, but would dent and smash it. If the bullet found an unprotected part of a target, then the stone would fracture and shatter bones, skulls, teeth, and cause deep impact bruises and even internal bleeding in some cases.\nWhen a slinger's bullet is launched correctly, it's with a quiet hiss, and then they vanish, speeding towards their target. They are almost invisible at this point, and it’s hard to detect their precise trajectory. Too many times has a group of soldiers had no idea they are targeted until its too late, and several members of their regiment are dead on the ground and another volley of bullets already flying their way.\nThe Celtic tribes had slingers aplenty in oppida warfare and sieges, where the slingers would position themselves above the wall on the ramparts, and send deadly stones down to the victims below. To be a Gaul and a slinger was not the most glorious profession to acquire skills in. Many looked at ranged warfare as womanly and unmanly since you wouldn't experience honorable close combat. Unlike the archer, Celtic slingers use a shield for protection while they are managing the sling with the other hand. They also carry a short sword for emergencies when they are needed.

    {slinger_descr_short}
    Slingers are a low cost, but very effective unit to have around.


    Bithynian Levy Phalangites

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    All across the Hellenistic kingdoms, the demands of monarchs for more and more soldiers to man their armies and militaries have inevitably resulted in the use of conscription. The Kingdom of Bithynia is no exception. Men from among the artisan, farmer, worker classes are drafted into the armies of King Prusias to prepare for conflicts at home and abroad. If the Pergamene threat is to be dealt with, a large army must be maintained! These men serve the dual purpose of forming a wall of pikes and of dulling the blades of their enemies so that the more professional and well-trained forces of the King have time to react and prepare to meet the foe.\n\nBithynia was a small kingdom, but was relatively important in the hectic and delicate politics of Asia Minor. It successfully achieved independence before the death of Megas Alexandros under Bas and the possibly Thracian Zipoites. Despite its relatively barbarian progenitors, the kingdom followed the Hellenistic patterns of rule as well as the earlier forms of Asiatic monarchy. It fought many wars, successfully dealing with invading Gauls, minor Greek rivals such as Byzantium, other kingdoms such as Pontus and Paphlagonia (against Heracleia) and of course against that great rival Pergamon to the south. Despite its many enemies, it maintained autonomy all the way past the demise of powerful Pergamon until the last king, Nicomedes IV, bequeathed it to the Roman Republic on his deathbed in 74BC. Though subsequently fought over by the great Mithridates of Pontos against the Romans, Bithynia was never again ruled by a Hellenistic monarch.\n\nWhile the men of the Bithynian levy phalanxes may not be the most skilled or trained soldiers in Asia, they are certainly decent levies. With their stiffened linothoraxes, small shields, and sturdy helmets, the men of Bithynia will defeat most other levies and many light infantry, even if they are not capable of holding a line for long.


    Boiotian Pezhetairoi

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Ever since the annihilation of the Sacred Band on the fields of Chaeronea, the people of Boiotia have been forced to recognize the superiority of the Macedonian way of war. Megas Alexandros used such a tactic, and it took him to the very ends of the Earth itself. From such a recognition sprung the battalions of phalangites that the league of Boiotian cities employ in these chaotic and uncertain times. Were that wise leader Epaminondas alive today, surely he himself would have blessed the embracing of this new formation. For is it not the mark of genius to confound the enemy with his own designs?\n\nSince ancient times, the plains of Boiotia have been home to great cultures and mighty cities. The land even, reputedly, held the oldest city in Greece, Graia. The city-states of Boiotia, though fragmented like the southern Greeks, eventually developed some semblance of political unity first under Thebes, with its political and religious supremacy. That great city stood as the prestigious and powerful capital of Boiotia until two cataclysmic disasters brought on by the northern Macedonians dealt it blows it would never recover from. After the butchery of Chaeronea and later the vicious and merciless sack of Megas Alexandros, Thebes was utterly destroyed and, though refounded, never attained its supremacy again. Boiotia again earned a decent political standing under the Boiotian league, a facet of the new system of leagues and kingdoms that dominate the present political landscape of Greece.\n\nWhile not quite the equal of the drilled phalanxes of Macedon to the north, the men of Boiotia are strong, motivated, and desperate to maintain their freedom. Wearing strong linothoraxes, bearing long sarissae, and armored in well-crafted helmets, the Boiotian Pezhetairoi are a valuable addition to the armies of Greece.


    Brigantes Swordsmen

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    The Brigantes ("people of the hills") were a native tribe of Britannia (and indeed Brigantes are known in Ireland and Spain) before the Roman conquest in 43 A.D, inhabiting the area north and west of Eburacum. According to Ptolemy and Tacitus they were the most populous tribe in Britannia and their queen at this time, Cartimandua, appears to have been a client of the Roman state, so that Brigantia was not a site of military operations until A.D 71, the conquest completed by Agricola in 91. By this time, it seems Brigantian territory extended even into the border regions with Scotland. Indeed, Cartimandua seems to have had, in typical fashion of Roman client rulers, her power sustained by Rome on more than one occasion. The Brigantes strength as a buffer state from the more northerly tribes was useful to Rome as it meant that as long as they were loyal to Rome, men could be deployed in other areas, especially Wales.

    This relationship with Rome, together with the size of their population meant that the Brigantes were good potential mercenaries for the Roman Army. The Brigantes were known to trade weapons with tribes further south and there are even links to the Phoenicians; but their own swords would have been of undoubted quality as later their sword smiths, finding no more business from their Noble employers who had been suppressed by the Romans, sought jobs in Imperial workshops. Brigantian swordsman invariably carried small shields on their left arm.


    Babylonian Archer

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Babylonian_Archer} Babylonian Archer
    The Babylonian Archers are an elite range unit. They fight with a composite bow and a short sword in case they are forced to fight in melee. These bowmen wear a chain-mail and a conical helmet which allow them a good protection against others ranged units. With their bows, these highly trained archers can be deadly, but their lack of shield forbid them melee fighting, except, of course, when death is the only other way.

    These archers come from the region of Babylon, and they have inherited the skills of their ancestors. Many of them are the descendants of those who served under Darius the First and then his son Xerxes during the war against mainland Greece.
    The composite bow has been invented in the second millennium BC and has been brought to the middle east by the Scythians. This bow is made from disparate materials laminated together, usually applied under tension. Different materials are used in order to take advantage of the properties of each material. The main advantage of composite bows over self bows (made from a single piece of wood) is their combination of smaller size with high power. They are therefore much more suitable for use from horseback, and presumably from a chariot. But a composite bow is much harder to make and the glue used can lose strength in humid conditions.
    {Babylonian_Archer_short_descr} Long range bowmen from Babylonia with a chain-mail but no shield.


    C
    Celtic Warband Archer

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {celtic_warband_archer} Celtic Warband Archer

    {celtic_warband_archer_descr}
    Primary Armour = Leather\n\nArcher warbands are used to harass and break up enemy formations, so that other warriors can then get in amongst their enemies. The members of the warband are lightly armed and equipped, relying more on speed as a protection from foes. Any archers caught in the open by cavalry will be in trouble unless they can withdraw to more favourable ground or behind a shield wall of friendly warriors.\n\nTheir bows have a short range, but each warrior carries a good selection of hunting and war arrows, designed to cause massive bleeding and pierce armour respectively. Their choice of missile is matched to the nature of the target.\n\nThese archers are at their best in wooded country, where their superior stalking skills learned on the hunt can be put to use.

    {celtic_warband_archer_descr_short}
    Archer warbands are used to harass and break up enemy formations, so that other warriors can then get in amongst their enemies.


    {germanic_archer} Germanic Archer

    {germanic_archer_descr}
    Primary Armour = Leather\n\nCompared with their Celtic brethren, Cimbri archers, being very hardy, were more of a professional hunter than an integral part of the war machine. Because of their expertise, hiding in the forests and fields, or for that matter anywhere, made them a deadly threat to enemies. They would be used to annoy enemy forces from a distance or perhaps make a cavalry unit hesitate. Archers did however carry a spear with them in the event of close encounters, or to support fellow warriors.

    {germanic_archer_descr_short}
    These Germanic archers are used to harass and break up enemy formations, so that other warriors can then get in amongst their enemies.

    Celtic Longshield Skirmisher

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {celtic_longshield_skirmisher} Celtic Longshield Skirmisher

    {celtic_longshield_skirmisher_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\nThis unit has wide recruitment area due to its hardy nature and disciplined fighting style. Experts at hiding in forest or field, they have a deadly accurate missile volley. As Ariovistus made incursions against the Roman allied Gallic Celts, Caesar sought initially to resolve the matter diplomatically. Ariovistus, the Suebi chief, had already conquered much of eastern Gallic territory only a few years prior, but Caesar was able to reverse the situation through diplomacy. Ariovistus was named a friend and ally of the Roman people, but this relationship proved to be short lived. Caesar's initial attempts in 58 BC to negotiate with the Germanic were defiantly rebuffed. Ariovistus it seems, viewed this part of Gaul as his territory, and Caesar's presence was considered a violation of their treaty. Additional missions sent to end the stand off diplomatically were failures.

    {celtic_longshield_skirmisher_descr_short}
    Celtic Longshield Skirmisher


    Celtic axeman

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Religion and magic are powerful reasons for bravery.\n\nThese warriors are brave fighters - and mad. They disdain armour and most clothing, preferring to paint themselves with intricate and stylised magical designs in woad (a blue dye) to deflect enemy blows and missiles. The patterns created can be elaborate and almost inhuman, and are supposed to be unnerving for enemies unused to such practices. Belief in magic and dedication to their god Teutatis also armours these warriors against fear, and makes them savage, dangerous and not-quite-controllable fighters. They carry only blades and shields but it is a foolish commander indeed who underestimates their impact in battle!


    Caledonian cavalry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Barbarian cavalry are lightly armoured and carry spears and shields. They are best used as scouts and in pursuit of fleeing enemies, and ride sturdy, sure-footed ponies with a good turn of speed. Like many barbarian warriors, however, they can lack battle-discipline and be over-keen to enter battle against worthy opponents. Honour and standing come from fighting, and sometimes the urge for glory overwhelms good sense! These men are all good fighters, but find organised, formal warfare goes against the grain. They are unlikely to be very effective against steady infantry unless attacking from an unexpected direction.


    Corsico Sardinian Infantry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {corsico_sardinian_infantry} Corsico Sardinian Infantry

    {corsico_sardinian_infantry_descr}
    These fierce tribal warriors are adept skirmishers and ambushers, capable of dealing a devastating attack and then retreating to the safety of the forests and hills. They are equipped with sturdy bows and viciously curved falcata-like swords, along with a small buckler shield to protect themselves from enemy fire. However, these men prefer to fight at a distance and it would be wise to keep them away from prolonged melees as their primitive armour provides little protection against heavy blows. Proud of their heritage, these Nuragic tribesmen wear the traditional horned helmets of their people, reflecting their way of living as livestock herders.\n\nCorsica (Kurnos in Greek) and Sardinia are two islands located at the east of the Italian peninsula. Their histories have often been intermingled, when one island was captured or colonized, the other one would soon follow. The Nuragic tribes of Sardinia rose to prominence around the time that the first nuraghis (distinctive stone towers) began to appear in 1500 BC. Much like the stone castles of feudal Europe, these towers dominated and controlled the surrounding landscape. The rugged nature of the terrain on both Corsica and Sardinia meant that the indigenous tribesmen were very skilled in the art of guerrilla warfare. The goatskin hides these warriors wore instead of heavy armour meant they were agile and able to strike quickly and nimbly, before making a hasty retreat. However, for additional protection, many donned simple, bronze pectoral plates as well as the distinctive horned helmets.\n\n The first to land in Corsica and Sardinia were the Phoenicians who founded Alalia. After the Phoenicians, came the Greeks who also established their own colonies. But the Carthaginians, with the help of the Etruscans conquered both islands in 535 BC. and they would stay that way for 297 years, until the First Punic War. Despite being fiercely independent, the tribes of these two islands were heavily involved in the Punic Wars between Rome and Carthage. It was on the Carthaginian side that most fought and they formed an integral part of the Carthaginian army on Sardinia during the Second Punic War. However, this didn’t always play to the tribesmen’s strengths as they were often forced into combat by Carthaginian leaders on open ground where they were vulnerable to disciplined heavy infantry tactics as well as enemy cavalry. This particular vulnerability was a result of a lack of any kind of mounted warfare among the Nuragic tribes. It is thought that theseindigenous tribes had never even domesticated the horse for peaceful purposes. Because of this the Nuragic warriors preferred to keep to rugged and wooded terrain, where these major threats were largely nullified.\n\n In 238 BC, the Carthaginians, accepting defeat in the First Punic War, surrendered Corsica first, then Sardinia in 237 after a mercenary revolt, together they became a province of Rome. This marked the beginning of Roman domination in the Western Mediterranean for the next 694 years. Although the spoils of war from the conquest were almost nonexistent, Sardinia provided much of the grain supply during the time of the Roman Republic. Corsica only provided wax to the empire, as that was all that could be found on the island. Sardinia played an import role during the Civil War of 49 BC. Caesar, who had control of the island, was able to feed his troops and cut the food supplies of his enemies. The same thing happened during the second Triumvirate, Octavian controlled the island and then became Emperor. Corsico Sardinians were often employed as mercenaries by the various surrounding powers, like Carthage or Syracuse. Their presence in an army was highly valued, almost equal to the famous Cretan mercenaries.

    {corsico_sardinian_infantry_descr_short}
    Mercenary bowmen with some melee capacity.


    Campanian Cavalry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {campanian_cavalry} Campanian Cavalry
    {campanian_cavalry_descr}
    The Campanian Cavalry are superb heavy horsemen from Campania, in southern Italy. Armed with the greek Xyston lance and the Kopis slashing swords, they are best used as shock cavalry.\n\nDuring the Second Punic War (218-201 BC), they defected from the Romans to the Carthaginians after the battle of Cannae in August 216 BC. When the Romans reconquered Capua, they put a great deal of the population to the sword, thus ending the great tradition of heavy shock cavalry for the Romans. They have served as elite mercenary cavalry throughout the western Mediterranean, in particular the Romans. They are a high-status group in both the social and economic sense. Rome relied heavily on them, indeed they were given Roman citizenship, and a monument was erected in their honor in Rome. Campania was inhabited at first by the Oscans and then by the Etruscans. The main settlement of Campania is believed to have been founded by the Etruscans in around 600 BC, giving the settlement the Etruscan name of 'Capue' and the resulting Latin name of 'Capua'. The region of Campania fell under the control of the Romans in 343 BC, during the 1st Samnite War.
    {campanian_cavalry_descr_short}
    The Campanian Cavalry are superb heavy horsemen from Campania, in southern Italy. They are best use as shock cavalry.


    Cretan Native Archers

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Cretan_Natives} Cretan Native Archers
    {Cretan_Native_Archers_descr} Ancient Crete was a tumultuous island constantly at war with itself as the small but numerous city-states it cradled vied for control of the land. Isolated from the affairs of mainland Greece and known as an untamed den of pirates and mercenaries, Crete gave rise to harsh men accustomed to war and especially guerrilla tactics, men who forged the "Cretan Way", a phrase notorious in the Mediterranean. Many of the native Cretan boys were initiated in the art of archery at the age of seven and bands of skilled archers were a common sight on this island that greatly valued their skill. They typically used curved, almost U-shaped when strung, composite bows similar to the Asiatic variant constructed from horn, wood and sinew. The large and heavy, distinctly shaped, bronze-cast arrow heads often used by the Cretans were capable of inflicting grievous wounds while their shafts and flights were most likely constructed from reeds and vulture wing feathers. Native Cretans and their archers often recognizable by the head-bands they wore were ferocious fighters with a long history of repelling various invaders until their final subjugation by the Romans, under Metellus, who continued to take advantage of their talents.
    {Cretan_Native_Archers_descr_short} Unarmoured but potent archers.


    Cretan Archers

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Cretan_Archers} Cretan Archers
    {Cretan_Archers_descr} From the chaos and strife of Cretan affairs emerged perhaps the most popular mercenary troops in the Mediterranean. They were the Cretan Archers, tough men of both great renown and infamy. As mercenaries they were known for frequent bickering and causing mischief, sometimes even hiring themselves out to other soldiers in the army in order to "protect" their baggage. Nevertheless Cretan Archers were a very sought for commodity even by great commanders like Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great. They usually fought with their standard Cretan-type composite bows along with short swords or daggers while using bronze bucklers to add some protection. Despite their role in the army the Cretan Archers' harsh nature and fondness of battle was known to plunge them into melee situations. Historically they are believed to have worn red tunics probably signifying their status as professional line troops rather than guerrilla fighters for which their home island was also known. Most likely they performed well in both styles of fighting and the tunics were worn only during more "formal" open battles. Throughout their history archers of Crete demonstrated the significance and potency of skilled bowmen and their long tradition helped the spread of archery among the heavy infantry focused Hellenes and Romans.
    {Cretan_Archers_descr_short} Lightly armoured but lethal bowmen.


    Cretan Levy Hoplites

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Cretan_Levy_Hoplites} Cretan Levy Hoplites
    {Cretan_Levy_Hoplites_descr} With so much warfare localized on such limited territory Cretan citizens were used to frequent mobilizations. Their society nurtured the warrior spirit and all male adults and youths were required to partake in syssitia, a communal meal designed to strengthen the bond between them and enhance the sense of camaraderie. Upon reaching their eighteenth year Cretan boys were "abducted" by their older mentors for a period of three months during which they were, among other things, taught how to fight and survive in the wild. With such war related activities and rituals as part of their life the citizens of Cretan city-states were ready for battle and could be relied upon to hold the line or defend the gates of their home city. If open battle should fail their training would allow them to "run to the hills" and switch to guerrilla warfare.
    {Cretan_Levy_Hoplites_descr_short} Hardy Cretan hoplite militia(?).


    Cretan Hoplites

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Cretan_Hoplites} Cretan Hoplites
    {Cretan_Levy_Hoplites_descr} Much like its neighbor Sparta, Cretan society placed great importance on strict military discipline although it refrained from the extremes of the Spartan way. Such military doctrine coupled with Crete's inherent inability to remain at peace for long produced hardened warriors much prized both at home and abroad. Even though the Cretan style of warfare placed more importance on light infantry tactics, archers and use of terrain, Cretan hoplites were capable fighters bonded by a strong sense of brotherhood instilled in them throughout their lives. One of the activities practiced in Minoan culture was "bull jumping"; it involved grabbing the bull by the horns and flipping oneself backwards in order to land behind the animal. It was a sport requiring both athletic prowess and courage. Though the great Minoan civilization fell to the Greek invaders much of its cultural heritage survived in one form of another including the "bull" who became incorporated into the Greek myths. Though it became much changed it remained a mighty creature and whenever Cretan hoplites marched to war they carried with them shields bearing images of that sacred animal making sure that their enemies would feel the virility and power of the Minoan bull.
    {Cretan_Levy_Hoplites_descr_short} Well motivated band of hoplites.


    Celtohellenic Hoplite

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Celtohellenic_Hoplite} Celtohellenic Hoplite
    {Celtohellenic_Hoplite_descr} The Celts had a varied relationship with the Greeks. At times they were their enemies, at others their trade partners and sometimes they even served the Greeks as mercenaries. Many Greek colonies, like Massalia, were established in southern Gaul (modern France). There the two populations mixed and, as the archeological evidence shows, many of the Celts living in close proximity to the Greeks adopted the hoplite style of fighting combining both Celtic and Greek equipment. Not as strictly disciplined but protected by chain-mail, the Celtic phalanx was not as steadfast as the Greek version but it was also less rigid and more adaptable. Should their spears or formation become broken these hoplites could revert back to the more traditional warband style of warfare by unsheathing their Celtic longswords. When fighting as mercenaries or allies the Celtohellenic Hoplites would often be led by Greek officers to ensure that the order of the phalanx was maintained. Seeing the Celts march in close, organized formation was probably an uncommon sight but discipline could only make these formidable warriors even more dangerous.
    {Celtohellenic_Hoplite_descr_short} Less ordered but more adaptable Celtic hoplites. Good quality longswords give them an edge in chaotic melee situations.


    Caledonian Swordsman

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    The Caledonians is a name given by historians to a group of Indigenous peoples of Scotland during the Iron Age that the Romans initially included as Britons, but later distinguished as the Picts. The Romans never fully subjugated the territory they called Caledonia (broadly modern Scotland) and resistance by the Caledonians was one of the factors that led to the Romans' abandonment of plans to occupy the area. In 83 or 84 AD, the Roman general Agricola realized that he was now facing a firm coalition, not a selection of individual tribes, led by a warrior-chief, he called "Calgacus". Tacitus provided a record of the words, or at least a common sentiment of Calgacus and the tribes of Britannia, describing contact with the Roman Legions.

    "They create desolation and call it peace. Let us then, unconquered as we are, ready to fight for freedom, prove what heroes Caledonia has been holding in reserve!"

    With a seemingly unified front against the Romans, the campaign changed to that of two well organized armies jostling for position. Tacitus makes mention of vast military sweeps across the countryside, and of both sides splitting their forces, trying to gain the tactical upper hand. Calgacus and his Pictish federation of warriors, farmers, hunters and craftsmen kept an entire professional Roman army occupied for the greater part of a year, employing guerilla tactics and avoiding the superiority of the Romans in a massed battle.
    The noteworthy Battle of Mons Graupius took place in 83 or 84 AD. Gnaeus Julius Agricola, the Roman governor and Tacitus' father-in-law,was threatening the Caledonian grain supplies and, with light infantry reinforced with British auxiliaries, reached the site, which he found occupied by the enemy under Calgacus.Tacitus relates that allied auxiliary infantry, 8,000 in number, were in the centre, while 3,000 cavalry were at the flanks, with the Roman legionaries in front of their camp wall being kept in reserve. Estimates for the size of the Roman army range from 17,000 to 30,000. The Caledonian army under Calgacus, said by Tactitus to be over 30,000, was stationed on higher ground; its vanguard was on the level ground, but the other ranks rose in tiers, up the slope of the hill in a horseshoe formation.
    The first part of the battle consisted of the exchange of missiles, followed by hand-to-hand combat. At the same time, the cavalry appeared and went among the tribal forces scattering them as they went. Calgacus attempted a last-ditch effort to win the day. He ordered chariot forces down the slope to flank and encircle the Roman rear. Unfortunately for the Caledonians and Picts, Agricola held cavalry in reserve, and at a signal, four squadrons of cavalry came forward. They burst through the allied lines, circling round behind them and sending Calgacus and his army into disarray and flight.


    D

    E

    F

    G
    Germanic Archer

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {germanic_archer} Germanic Archer

    {germanic_archer_descr}
    Primary Armour = Leather\n\nCompared with their Celtic brethren, Cimbri archers, being very hardy, were more of a professional hunter than an integral part of the war machine. Because of their expertise, hiding in the forests and fields, or for that matter anywhere, made them a deadly threat to enemies. They would be used to annoy enemy forces from a distance or perhaps make a cavalry unit hesitate. Archers did however carry a spear with them in the event of close encounters, or to support fellow warriors.

    {germanic_archer_descr_short}
    These Germanic archers are used to harass and break up enemy formations, so that other warriors can then get in amongst their enemies.


    Galatian Naked Spearman
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    These Celts were warriors, respected by Greeks and Romans . They hired themselves out as mercenary soldiers, sometimes fighting on both sides in the great battles of the times. For years the chieftains and their war bands ravaged the western half of Asia Minor, as allies of one or another of the warring princes, without any serious check, until they sided with the renegade Seleucid prince Antiochus Hierax, who reigned in Asia Minor. Hierax tried to defeat king Attalus I of Pergamum (241–197 BC), but instead, the hellenised cities united under his banner, and his armies inflicted several severe defeats upon them, about 232 forcing them to settle permanently and to confine themselves to the region to which they had already given their name. The theme of the Dying Gaul (a famous statue displayed in Pergamon) remained a favorite in Hellenistic art for a generation.\n\nIn the early 2nd century BC they proved terrible allies of Antiochus the Great, the last Seleucid king trying to regain control over Asia Minor, but after the defeat of the Seleucid king by the Romans, Rome at last proved a worthy protection against them.\nIn 189 BC Rome sent Gnaeus Manlius Vulso on an expedition against the Galatians. He defeated them and Galatia was henceforth dominated by Rome through regional rulers from 189 BC onward. Galatia declined and fell at times under Pontic ascendancy and were finally freed by the Mithridatic Wars, during which they supported Rome. In the settlement of 64 BC Galatia became a client-state of the Roman empire, the old constitution disappeared, and three chiefs were appointed, one for each tribe, ( Tectosages, Tolistobogii and Trocmi ) . But this arrangement soon gave way before the ambition of one of these chiefs, Deiotarus, the contemporary of Cicero and Julius Caesar, who made himself master of the other two and was finally recognized by the Romans as 'king' of Galatia.


    Greek Hippotoxotoi

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Greek_Hippotoxotoi} Greek Hippotoxotai
    {Greek_Hippotoxotoi_descr} Both horsmanship and archery were often neglected in early Greek warfare and their rise to prominence within the phalanx dominated armies of Classical Greece was slow. This was especially true for a fighting style that combined both the horse and the bow. In the beginning horse archers of Greece were little more than scouts. Few in number and mostly recruited from the rural communities around the city-states for their knowledge of the terrain, the Greek Hippotoxotoi would move ahead of the army to conduct reconnaissance and minor harassment operations. One record from 431 BC shows Athens in possession of a force of around two hundred horse archers although little is known about how they were used. It is, however, suggested that serving with the Hippotoxotoi was considered less prestigious than being a part of the regular cavalry force, certainly it was no place for an honorable hoplon bearing citizen. Though the use of mounted archers became more widespread in the Hellenistic period as the Greek armies evolved to become more flexible, Greek horse archers could never match their counterparts from the Asiatic steppes in neither skill nor the quality of their equipment.
    {Greek_Hippotoxotoi_descr_short}Light horse archers.


    H
    Hyrkanian Slinger

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {hyrkanian_slinger} Hyrkanian Slinger

    {hyrkanian_slinger_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\nHyrkania is a wild land of forests, mountains and swamps bordering the Caspian Sea, home to many fierce tribes who have perfected the art of guerilla warfare. These Hyrkanians are expert slingers, and more than willing to serve their Parthian overlords for the chance at rich plunder.\n\nIn history, Hyrkania was known for its fertile lands, fierce tigers, and tropical climate. Hyrkania was also the site of a large fortification wall known as "the Wall of Alexander," which was built to keep the northern nomads out. This wall was most likely an Achaemenid construction that was later rebuilt. Hyrkanians played a role in the battle of Gaugemela, and the Persian nobles fled to this land after the death of Darius III.

    {hyrkanian_slinger_descr_short}
    Slingers are a low cost, but very effective unit to have around.


    Helvetii Infantry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    In 107 bc, influenced by reports of gold and plunder available in southern Gaul and in Rome, the Helvetii had crossed the Jura Mountains and defeated a Roman army. Five years later they joined the Cimbri in an attempted invasion of Italy but were repulsed. In 58 bc, under the pressure of Germanic invasions, all the Helvetii, numbering almost 370,000, began a mass migration to what is now southern France. Before the combat began, Caesar received ambassadors from the Helvetii who informed him that they intended simply to march through his territory en route to central Gaul. Recollecting the earlier ruthless death and defeat of Lucius Cassius by the Helvetii in 107 BCE and doubting that they would actually march through the territory without harm to the area, Caesar began preparing for war. Through reports, Caesar heard that the Helvetii had begun their trek across his province by crossing the river Saone, installing themselves on a hillside to survey the battle scene and take up an advantageous position. Caesar’s army engaged with the Helvetii and their Tigurini and Boii allies in the 9-hour bloody Battle of Bibracte. Caesar’s troops outmatched the Helvetii warriors; he had at the ready 4 legions of soldiers and was able to call upon 2 more for the dispute. In contrast, while the Helvetii may have had more total people with them, their military force numbered only 110,000 men. At the end of the day, 130,000 Helvetii were left alive.


    I
    Insubres Peltast

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {insubres_peltast} Insubres Peltast

    {insubres_peltast_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\nWith few exceptions among the free peoples of Gaul, this warrior would begin his trial by battle as a skirmisher. At a young age, his father, uncle, or other male member of the tribe would introduce him to the javelin, and his aptitude for war was often judged by his performance while filling the role of a skirmisher. Armed with their clothing, their clutch of javelins, a round shield, and their own wits, these skirmishers are one of the fastest, if not the most mobile foot unit that the Celts can call upon. They often form up in battle as the last line an enemy must contend with before the real battle begins with the infantry. By a mighty volley of their javelins at approaching enemy infantry or cavalry, their missiles can help decimate a regiment and pick off slow moving foes, decreasing their offensive capability and threat to other friendly troops.\nMany skirmishers are members of the tribes that do not share an active professional interest in war, but offer themselves up to the benefit of the tribe during times of war, putting their lives up to the fortunes of war. Although all Celtic tribes elevated cavalry and infantry heroics in their culture, the role of a skirmisher was not overlooked. The inexperienced warrior needed to cut his teeth in a real battle in a role other than front line hand to hand combat, so the tribes made sure to have a contingent of these skirmishers present in force during raids and tribal conflicts.

    {insubres_peltast_descr_short}
    Peltasts rush forward to pepper an enemy with spears, and then run away before a counter-attack can be organised.


    Insubres Infantry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {insubres_infantry} Insubres Infantry

    {insubres_infantry_descr}Superior\nImpetuous\n\nA Celtic people of upper Italy, the most powerful in Gallia Transpadana, inhabiting the country between the Adda, the Ticinus and the Alps. According to Livy, they appear to have been a branch of the Aedui, though others assume that they were Umbrian’s, a view to some extent supported by the form Is-ombr-es. Livy states that Bellovesus and his Gauls, having crossed the Alps and defeated the Etruscans near the Ticinus, found themselves in the territory of the Insubres (also the name of a pagus of the Aedui). Here they built a city and called it Mediolanum (Milan), after the name of a village in their home in Gallia Transalpina.\n\nThough Celtic at the time of Roman conquest, they were most likely the result of the fusion of pre-existing Ligurian, Celtic and Italic populations.\nTogether with the Boii, Lingones, Taurini, Gaesatae and other Gaulic groups, the Insubres were defeated in 224 or 225 BC by the Roman army led by consul Lucius Aemilius Papus at the Battle of Telamon. Two years later the Romans, backed by their Gaulic allies the Cenomani, reduced the only fortified place of the Insubres at Acerrae, and defeated them again at the Battle of Clastidium. After the defeat of the Gaesatae, they were compelled to accept the Roman occupation of Milan in 221 and a forced alliance with Rome.\n\nDuring the invasion of Hannibal in 218-217 BC, the Insubres rebelled in support of the Carthaginians. They also supported the Carthaginians again in 200 BC, this time under Hamilcar. After several other clashes, they definitively allied with Rome after being subdued by L. Valerius Flaccus in 194 BC. In 89 BC they obtained Latin citizenship and, in 49 BC, Roman citizenship.\n\n{insubres_infantry_descr_short}
    Typical of Celtic warriors, these men are a definite asset to any army, and a dangerous enemy.


    J

    K
    Kappadokes Infantry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {kappadokes_infantry} Kappadokes Infantry

    {kappadokes_infantry_descr}\n\nPrimary Armour = Metal\nDisciplined\nHighly Trained\n
    Kappadokia was known as Hatti in the late Bronze Age, and was the homeland of the Hittite power. Somewhere around 1900 B.C. there appears in the land of Hatti a folk who call themselves the people of Nesa. Where they originally came from is a mystery, nor is it known what they were called there. These people merged with the indigenous Hatti, forging from the two cultures one that was new and unique. In time they even came to take their name from that of their adopted home, and henceforward were known as the Hittites.\nThe neighboring empire to the south of the Hittites was that of Egypt. At one point the widow of the boy king Tutankhamen beseeched King Suppiluliumas for the hand of one of his sons, but the plan was not consummated. Suppiluliumas had a practice of making treaties rather than taking slaves after conquering nations, which helped to increase the empire. King Mutwattalis completely outgeneraled the proud pharaoh Ramses II to win what must rank among the most important military triumphs in history: the result was the first written peace treaty and pact of non-aggression ever, signed between the Hittites and the Egyptians.\nThe Hittites were keen breeders and trainers of horses, and developed the first light war chariots. They were also the first to fight with iron weapons. The plumed helmet and warrior's tunic later encountered in the Greek and Roman armies also made their first appearance with the Hittites. Assailed from every direction in the 13th century B.C., the Hittite Empire wilted.\nAround 1250 BC pillaging hordes of Phrygians poured into Anatolia, later establishing dominion in west central Anatolia, where they merged with the local folk and took up an agricultural way of life. This Phrygian kingdom was eventually overthrown by the Cim*merians and the last Phrygian king, Midas, took his own life upon his defeat in 676 B.C. Lydia then rose to prominence, although they had to fend off the Medes first and then the Persian Empire. In 547 BC King Croesus lost two major battles against Cyrus of Persia and Lydia became part of the Persian Empire until Alexander’s invasion of 333BC.\n For the next 300 years this area was in a state of chaos from war and occupation. The region was a constant battlefield and changed hands frequently between Pontus, Rome and even Armenia. Finally, after the death of Julius Caesar, Cassius went to Kappadokia and had Ariobarzanes III assassinated. Ariartes Eusebes Philadelphos was instilled as king and followed by Archeleos, who received the support of Anthony and then Augustus. Archeleos, the last Kappadokian king, remained a strong ally of Rome until his death in 17 AD when the area became a Roman province.

    {kappadokes_infantry_descr_short}Versatile heavy infantry that launches javelins before charging.


    L
    Lusitanian Caetrati

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    The Caetrati are fast-moving, versatile infantry. They are not heavily armoured, but rather equipped only with a small shield (caetra). Their weapons include both javelins and a falcata (Iberian sword), a deadly blade, able cut through even Legionary armour. 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 and Iberian influenced world. They are best employed against enemy spearmen and, like other infantry, can be vulnerable to cavalry attacks.


    Ligurian Noble Cavalry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {ligurian_noble_cavalry} Ligurian Noble Cavalry
    {ligurian_noble_cavalry_descr}

    According to written sources we have about the settlements of the Ligurians, the presence of these people dates back to the first millennium B.C. They were divided into several tribes, numbering less than two hundred thousand spread over a vast territory including most of north-western Italy. The Ligurians were short, wiry people toughened by their harsh mountainous life. They were considered ‘tough fighters’ and ‘warlike and proud’ and had better endurance than their often fickle Celtic neighbours. Strabo and Diodorus says they fought almost exclusively on foot, but recent grave findings found harness and horse fittings, so cavalry was not a complete unknown to these people. The Salyes north of Massilia, had a very substantial cavalry, according to Strabo, but they were a Celto-Ligurian mix.\n\n

    Ligurian nobles would often wear torques and have Celtic or Etruscan helmets. It has been suggested that they adopted the Argive shield possibly through Greek influence in the area but also that it would be more managable on horseback. They would carry a bundle of four foot javelins tipped with three sided iron points. Sidearms would ranged from daggers, short swords, Celtic style long swords or axes. In any event, their reputed boldness caused them to be in great demand as mercenaries. They served the Carthaginian commander Hamilcar in 480bc and the Sicilian Greek colonies in the time of Agathocles and openly sided with Carthage in the Second Punic War (218–201 BC). Before Pydna ( 148 BC ) the Romans used Ligurian skirmishers almost exclusively with their velites for chasing off Macedonian skirmishers.\n\n

    During the first Punic War the ancient Ligurians were divided into mostly Carthage’s allies, with a minority becoming Roman auxialiaries, including the future Genoese. After the Roman conquest of the region, the so-called X regio, named Liguria, was created in the reign of Emperor Augustus. Plutarch mentions at the Battleof Aquae Sextiae ( 102 BC )that during the initial skirmishes, the Teutones’ allies, the Ambrones, began to shout "Ambrones!" as their battle cry. Ligurian
    troops fighting for the Romans, upon hearing this, found that it was identical to an ancient name in their country, which the Ligurians often used when speaking of their descent, so they returned the shout, "Ambrones!" However the ensuing skirmish which saw the Ambrones retreat, ended with the Ligurians at the Ambrone camp. There, they were confronted by the Ambrones women, armed and quite incensed, so shocked were the Ligurians, that they themselves beat a hasty retreat rather than fight these screaming banshees.\n\n

    {ligurian_noble_cavalry_descr_short}
    Heavy Celtic influence has created this formidable cavalry unit.


    Latin Medium Cavalry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {latin_medium_cavalry} Latin Medium Cavalry

    {latin_medium_cavalry_descr}
    Primary Armor = Metal\nDisciplined\nHardy\n\nOwing to Rome's eventual conquest of all the towns and cities of Latium in the years before the Republic began to expand further into southern and northern Italy, the various cities of Latium were required to provide soldiers to fight with Rome's legions. This unit of hardy men from the mountainous areas of central Italy is particularly valuable to any Roman General, since it is a good cavalry unit, armored and equipped with a long spear and deadly sword, and far more experienced than the typical Roman Equite. Although still not the best cavalry in this era, they will hold their own in most situations, and are immensely valuable for running down routing units and charging into the backs or flanks of other units.\n\n However, this is a rare unit (only recruitable in Rome), so it should be used sparingly and wisely in situations where it is only absolutely necessary.

    {latin_medium_cavalry_descr_short}
    This unit of hardy men from the mountainous areas of central Italy is particularly valuable to any Roman General, since it is a good cavalry unit, armored and equipped with a long spear and deadly sword, and far more experienced than the typical Roman Equite.


    M
    Mardian Foot Archer

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Mardian Foot Archers are light skirmishers equipped with a composite bow and dagger. They do not carry shields and are clad only in a linen tunic. This light equipment allows them to be quick and to have excellent stamina. Engaging in melee is their worst fear, and they will break almost immediately.\n\n\As mercenary archers, they sold their services to highest bidder. Darius of Persia used the Mardian archers in the centre of his massive army that lost to Alexander at Gaugamela in 331 BC. They were poor men who only had their bow, experience and wits available for sale. Use them to harass enemy flanks, or to reduce the number of soldiers coming from behind the main infantry lines. The Mardian Plain was a region of Thrace, between what is now Greece and Bulgaria. On that plain, a battle was fought in 316/317 AD between the forces of Roman Emperors Constantine I and Licinius. The battle ended at dusk with no winner, but Licinius was forced to withdraw.


    Massilian Heavy Spearman

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Marseille, the oldest city of France, was founded in 600 BC by Greeks from Phocaea (as mentioned by Thucydides) as a trading port under the name Massalia. The precise circumstances and date of founding remain obscure, but nevertheless a legend survives. Protis, while exploring for a new trading outpost for Phocaea, discovered the Mediterranean cove of the Lacydon. He was invited inland to a banquet held by the chief of the local Ligurian tribe for suitors seeking the hand of his daughter Gyptis in marriage. At the end of the banquet, Gyptis presented the ceremonial cup of wine to Protis, indicating her unequivocal choice. Following their marriage, they moved to the hill just to the north of the Lacydon; and from this settlement grew Massalia.
    The Greeks of Massalia aided the Romans in 154 BC during the Second Punic War. About 30 years later, the Greeks needed help against the largest Ligurian tribe, the Salian Francs. Answering the request, the Romans arrived in Provence in 125 BC, rescuing Massalia, and at the same time began to take over the area. Greeks and Romans battled the Salian Franks for three years, before the might of the Romans triumphed. These Greeks retained Massalia as an independent republic, allied to Rome, while the Romans founded Transalpine Gaul, with Aix and Narbonne as Roman colonies. Around 50 BC, friction between the Roman generals Caesar and Pompey was coming to a head, and Massalia was forced to take sides. They went with Pompey, and were then besieged by Caesar. With the aid of his shipyards in Arles to provide warships, Caesar defeated Massalia, now called Massilia, after six months, in 49 BC.
    Warriors from this area will have a rather unique mix of fighting influence; Greek and Celtic tactics will make them a formidable foe.


    N
    Naupaktos Hoplite

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {naupaktos_hoplite} Naupaktos Hoplite

    {naupaktos_hoplite_descr}
    Like most hoplites, these men are heavy infantry who are well armed with a 7ft long Doru spear, a xiphos leaf sword and a large aspis (round shield) of wood, bronze and hide. They wear a type of linothoratic armour constructed of scales of bronze and hardened linen. These men are the decendants of Messenian refugees fleeing from Spartan rule and they will fight hard for Aitolia to keep their city.\n\nThe shield design depicts a sacrificial tripod that is associated with the god Apollo. This is certainly conspicious when we take into consideration the anti Herakles message that the tripod of Apollo may bring. Both the Makedonians and the Spartans considered Herakles to be their founding father, which makes the tripod an anti-Spartan and anti-Makedonian symbol. In mythology, Apollo had beaten Herakles in a match for which the sacrificial tripod was the prize. Since Naupaktos was colonized by Messenians fleeing from Spartan rule, having the tripod of Apollo on their shields would have been a clear choice for them to make. A huge number of Messenian coins of the era also depict tripods on them, further fueling the anti-Spartan feeling that the people of Naupaktos may of had.\n\nNaupaktos during this period belonged to the Aitolian League, however the history of the city goes back a number of centuries. The name Naupaktos suggests that the settlement had stong connections with the sea and the building of ships. Indeed, the mighty naval power of Corinth lay at the other end of the Corinthian Gulf to Naupaktos. Its history of ship building can even be seen in Greek mythology. It was at Naupaktos where the Dorians (Herakledai) constructed their ships to invade the Peloponnese and subsiquently conqueror the Mycenaean kingdom. Untill 455 BC, Naupaktos had belonged to the Ozolian tribe of the Locrians along with the town of Amphissa. It was in 455 when the Athenians captured Naupaktos and they began to settle Messenian refugees fleeing from Spartan rule during the Peloponnesian War. It was a contingent of Messenian refugees who had settled in Naupaktos who aided Athens in her victory at the battle of Sphakteria in 425 BC. After the Peloponnesian War, the Boeotian general Epaminondas restored Naupaktos back to the Locrians in 404. However with the Makedonian conquest of much of southern Greece, Naupaktos changed hands once again. King Phillip II of Makedon gave Naupaktos to the Aitolians. Historically the Romans captured Naupaktos in 191 BC and the city suffered terribly from a number of earthquakes in the centuries to come.

    {naupaktos_hoplite_descr_short}
    Well armed hoplites from the city of Naupaktos


    Nabataean Horse Archers

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Horse archers provided the trading nation of Nabataea with an extra level of protection for their trading caravans, as they travelled from the Mediterranean world to India and even China. These light mounted archers have the ability to pepper any brigand with a shower of arrows before they could get close enough to the wealthy caravans, dripping in wealthy goods such as incense, myrrh and spices. However once these archers enter hand to hand they immediately render themselves useless.


    Nabataean cavalry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    These light horsemen come from the wealthy trading nation of Nabataea, to the east of Judaea. The Nabataei and their cities of Bostra and their magnificent capital at Petra were centres of global trade throughout antiquity. These horsemen would have protected the caravans travelling to and from Nabataea, transporting goods from the Mediterranean to as far afield as India and even China. The Nabataean horsemen were of vital importance for the protection of the caravans, as the slow pace at which they moved provided bandits with rich pickings, especially the wealthy goods such as spice travelling from the orient and India. However these horsemen cannot be expected to stand up to more heavily armed opponents. Nabataea remained an independent nation until the emperor Trajan annexed Nabataea into the Roman Empire in 107 AD.


    Numidian Spearman

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {Numidian_Spearman} Numidian Spearman
    {Numidian_Spearman_descr}The Numidian Spear-men are light mercenary infantry who fight with a short spear. Although they can’t fight in the main line against heavier units, they are great for flanking. Their light armor makes them quick and nimble, a must against skirmishers. Their kit is completed with a large oval shield and a sword in case the spear is lost or broken.

    The name Numidia was first applied by Polybius and other historians during the third century BC to indicate the territory west of Carthage, including the entire north of Algeria as far as the river Mulucha (Muluya), about 100 miles west of Oran. The Numidians, who were of Berber origin, were conceived of as two great tribal groups: the Massylii in eastern Numidia, and the Masaesyli in the west. During the first part of the second Punic war (from 218 BC to 206), the Massylii were allied with Carthage and the Masaesyli with Rome. But in 206 BC, the Massylian king died and the tribes switched their alliances, the east to Rome and the west to Carthage. At the end of the war, in 201 BC, Numidia was given to the Masaesyli by the victorious Romans.
    {Numidian_Spearman_short_descr}
    The Numidian Spear-men are light mercenary infantry who fight with a short spear and a large oval shield.


    O
    Ophioneis Thorakitai

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    The Thorakitai are a more advanced version of the Thureophoroi – a mobile but heavily armoured soldier who combines javelins and spear, not unlike the legionaries of Rome. These men in particular are a potent anti-cavalry force, able to hurl javelins from a distance and then fight off cavalry with their spears. As such, their value as flank protectors is tremendous. All that armour and training is expensive however, so it’s a good thing the Seleucid coffers are filled with gold!


    Stone Throwing Siege Ballista

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {onager} Stone Throwing Siege Ballista

    {onager_descr}
    Hardy (crew)\nFires stones and incendiary stones\n\nThe Greek "Palintone" was a torsion-powered stone throwing siege ballista. The original concept and design for this type of catapult came from the Greeks. This machine is similar to the ballista siege engines later used by the Romans. The Roman engines differed from the Greek machines in having a ratchet wheel and pawl at the capstan winch (carchesium) instead of the long toothed racks on the sides of the ladder beam (scapus climacidos). Also, some of the structural members comprising the torsion head on the Roman engines had a different appearance. The weapon is powered by two horizontal cross-bow like arms, which are inserted into two vertical and tightly wound "skein" springs of braided nylon rope contained in the rectangular frame structure. The Romans used skein springs made from gut or hemp. There is no record of the Romans having used metal springs in their torsion powered catapulta.\n\n
    The smallest stone-throwing torsion "Palitones" ballista engine mentioned by the Greeks threw a stone weighing 10 minae, equal to 9.6 pounds. Such a machine would have been about 16 feet long overall. The term catapult comes from the Greek word "Katapeltes" "shield piercer" (kata = through, pelta = small shield"). A Roman Legion probably employed 10 of the larger stone throwing "Ballista" engines, as above, one for each Cohort, while one smaller "Catapulta" arrow bolt shooter would be assigned to each of the Legion's 59 Centuries. One Contubernium (squad of eight men) of each Century would be assigned responsibility for the emplacement and maintenance of the catapulta engine. The so-called "Scorpion" catapulta was a smaller two-man portable torsion-powered arrow shooter. It is believed that Auxiliary units did not have catapultae assigned to them.\n\nBallistae were rather high-maintenance devices and were vulnerable to having their leather or sinew or hemp skeins get wet or even damp, which would cause them to slacken and lose tension, rendering the engine useless. Also, these machines required a skilled crew to tighten the skeins and keep the weapon adjusted and ready for deployment. This was difficult enough in peaceful conditions, not to mention during the heat of battle, so the death or injury of a critical crew member could compromise the effectiveness of the weapon.

    {onager_descr_short}
    The Greek "PALINTONE" was a torsion-powered stone throwing siege ballista.

    P
    Pergamon Heavy Cataphract

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Pergamon Heavy Cataphracts are heavy cavalry in every sense of the word. Horse and rider are fully covered by strong scale armour. They charge with their kontos,( a lance), then switch to either a kopis ( curved sword ) or a mace. Several empires made use of cataphracts, the Parthian dynasty, Iranian, Sarmatians, Armenians, Seleucids, Pergamenes, Sassanid, Persian, Roman and the Byzantine Empire. The adjective 'cataphract' , is Greek, roughly meaning "mail-clad." and Greek word for "mail armour" was cataphractes, which literally means "closed from all sides". The term first appears substantively in Latin, in the writings of Sisennus: … loricatos, quos cataphractos vocant …, "… the armoured, whom they call cataphracts …".\n\nThe roots of the cataphract lay with the nomadic peoples of the Central Asian Steppes; their cataphract traditions, (reserved for nobility) ,were probably passed on to the sedentary peoples of the ancient Near East. The Western Greeks first encountered the cataphract during their wars with the Persian Empire. They were widely adopted by the Seleucid Empire and the Attalid Kingdom. The Parthians, who replaced Greek power in the East, were also noted for their use of cataphracts. The Romans fought numerous wars against armies fielding cataphracts, and by the fourth century had a number of vexillations of cataphract cavalry themselves.\n\nTheir flexible but strong scale armour was made from overlapping plates of bronze or iron sewn onto an undergarment of leather, worn by rider and horse. A close-fitting helmet that covered the head and neck, with only narrow slits for the eyes. Ammianus Marcellinus, writing in the 4th century AD, describes the sight of massed Persian cataphracts: … “all the companies were clad in iron, and all parts of their bodies were covered with thick plates, so fitted that the stiff-joints conformed with those of their limbs; and the forms of human faces were so skillfully fitted to their heads, that since their entire body was covered with metal, arrows that fell upon them could lodge only where they could see a little through tiny openings opposite the pupil of the eye, or where through the tip of their nose they were able to get a little breath.”\n\nSome wore armour that was primarily frontal, providing protection for a charge yet offering relief from the weight and encumbrance of a full suit. In yet another variation, like the Pergamon Heavy Cataphract, they were not equipped with shields, particularly if they had heavy body armour. A chain attached to the horse’s neck, and the horse’s hind leg, so the full momentum of horse could be applied to the thrust usually supported cataphract lances. One reason for this was the lack of stirrups; although the traditional Roman saddle had four horns with which to secure the rider, these were largely inadequate in keeping a rider seated upon his mount when the full impact of a charge was realised.\n\nA cataphract charge was very effective due to the discipline and large numbers of troops deployed. Roman writers throughout imperial history made much of the terror of seeing cataphracts, let alone receiving their charge.


    Polybian Republican Cohort

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {polybian_republic_legion} Polybian Republican Cohort

    {polybian_republic_legion_descr}
    Disciplined\nHardy\nSapping Ability\n\nThe pressures of invasion by Carthage and the need for a larger, more ominous looking front to the enemy led the Romans to gradually shift their tactics when it came to troop dispersment. Although records are sparse, some accounts report that the old 'Hastati' and 'Principe' manipules were merged nearly into one unit, called for the first time a 'cohort'. These men fight and look just like the Principes of the past, but their numbers are greater, and you cannot tell 'Hastati' from 'Principe'. It could well be that the younger men fought more bravely and better with the more experienced soldiers at their sides. Used mainly to counter Hannibal and his forces in Italy, it's evident that after the 2nd Punic War Roman military tactics were never the same. This unit fights with a thrown 'pilum' released at the enemy in a powerful volley, and then engages with the Roman 'Gladius', a short sword that is very useful in the Legionary style of fighting.

    {polybian_republic_legion_descr_short}
    These men represent the earliest use of the Roman Legionary Cohort.


    Phrygian Heavy Cavalry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    The Phrygian Heavy Cavalry are Xystophoroi, which means they carry a xyston, a long (about 3.5–4.25 meters (11–14 ft)) thrusting spear. The xyston is used for the initial charge, then the Phrygian Heavy Cavalry switch to a war axe to engage in melee fighting. They wear a bronze Phrygian helmet with cheek guards; the mPhrygian cap used as a symbol of the French and American struggles for independence takes is a more modern derivative of this. The Phrygian Heavy Cavalry also wear scale armour, which offers them good protection in the impact following the charge.

    Phrygia was a kingdom in the west central part of Anatolia, in what is now modern Turkey. The Phrygians (Phruges or Phryges) initially lived in the Southern Balkans, according to Herodotus, under the name of Bryges (/Briges), changing it to Phruges after their final migration to Anatolia, via the Hellespont. The Bryges had a close relation with the Trojans, and historians believe that their culture was similar. The state of Phrygia arose in the 8th century BC with its capital at Gordium. During this period, the Phrygians extended eastward and encroached upon the kingdom of Urartu, the descendants of the Hurrians, a former rival of the Hittites. A famous king of this period is Midas, who is said to turn everything he touched into gold.

    In 690 BC, however, Phrygia was overwhelmed by Iranian Cimmerian invaders, then conquered by its neighbour, Lydia, during the reign of the King Creosus (560-546 BC), proverbially known for his wealth. Lydian Croesus was conquered by Cyrus in 546 BC, and Phrygia passed under Persian dominion. After Darius became Persian Emperor in 521 BC, he remade the ancient trade route into the Persian "Royal Road" and instituted administrative reforms that included setting up satrapies. The capital of the Phrygian satrapy was established at Dascylion.

    Under Persian rule, the Phrygians seem to have lost their intellectual acuity and independence. Phrygians became stereotyped among later Greeks and the Romans as passive and dull.
    Alexander the Great passed through Gordium in 333 BC, famously severing the Gordian Knot in the temple of Sabazios ("Zeus"). The legend (possibly promulgated by Alexander's publicists) was that whoever untied the knot would be master of Asia. With Gordium sited on the Persian Royal Road that led through the heart of Anatolia, the prophecy had some geographical plausibility. With Alexander, Phrygia became part of the wider Hellenistic world. After Alexander's death, his successors squabbled over Anatolian dominions.

    Later, Gauls overran the eastern part of Phrygia which became part of Galatia. The former capital of Gordium was captured and destroyed by the Gauls soon afterwards and disappeared from history. In imperial times, only a small village existed on the site, and, in 188 BC, the remnant of Phrygia came under control of Pergamon. In 133 BC, western Phrygia passed to Rome.

    The Phrygians venerated Sabazios, the sky and father-god depicted on horseback. Although the Greeks associated Sabazios with Zeus, representations of him, even at Roman times, show him as a horseman god. Phrygia developed an advanced Bronze Age culture.
    The earliest traditions of Greek music derived from Phrygia, transmitted through the Greek colonies in Anatolia, and included the Phrygian mode, which was considered to be the warlike mode in ancient Greek music. Phrygian Midas, the king of the "golden touch", was tutored in music by Orpheus himself, according to the myth. Another musical invention that came from Phrygia was the aulos, a reed instrument with two pipes. Marsyas, the satyr who first formed the instrument using the hollowed antler of a stag, was a Phrygian follower of Cybele. He unwisely competed in music with the Olympian Apollo and inevitably lost, whereupon Apollo flayed Marsyas alive and provocatively hung his skin on Cybele's own sacred tree, a pine.
    The Phrygians used the Phoenician alphabet, but their language was Indo-European, and although several inscriptions have been found, nobody has yet been able to decipher them.

    {phrygian_heavy_cavalry_descr_short} Heavy cavalry best use for flanking and charging into the back of an infantry line.


    Pontic Thorakitai Hoplite

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {pontic_thorakitai_hoplite} Pontic Thorakitai Hoplite{pontic_thorakitai_hoplite_descr}
    The Pontic Thorakitai Hoplites are hoplites that could afford better equipment than the standard levy, but they also have much better training. The main difference is the linothorax and leather used as armour by the poorer hoplites being replace with a chain mail, hence the term Thorakitai that means cuirassiers.

    The Thorakitai were the elite of most Hellenistic armies, but they were few in numbers due to the cost of a chain mail. The mainly experienced, hardened mercenary veterans who had become rich during their years of serving. But there were also some wealthy citizens who had a taste for fighting. They were used on the right flank of the Hellenistic armies, considered the strongest because of the way the hoplites fought: spear in the right arm, shield on the left. A proof of their value was in a battle between the Romans and Corinth, the Thorakitai Heavy Hoplites managed to break the left flank of the legion before being overwhelmed due to a lack of support.
    {pontic_thorakitai_hoplite_descr_short} Versatile heavy infantry, which can either fight in the main line or on the flanks.


    Palmyran Phalangites

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    These soldiers come from the Kingdom of Palmyra, a client state of the Seleucids and later the Romans. They are well armed and drilled soldiers, armed with a lethal 21ft long sarissa pike, a short sword and a small shield. The wear armour made of bronze plates, suited for the heat of the Syrian desert. Any invader in Syria should fear these men, as they would gladly fight for their goddess Bel, whose temple ruins still dominate the current archaeological site at Palmyra.\nHistorically Palmyra was a caravan stop built on one of the few Oases’ between Mesopotamia and the ports of the Syrian coast. During the Roman period Palmyra enjoyed a great deal of independence under the Romans and it experienced a huge economic boom as a result of being an important caravan stop and trading hub. Palmyra became famous for queen Zenobia who rebelled against Roman rule, only for the rebellion to be crushed by the emperor Aurelian in 217 AD.


    Q
    Last edited by apple; September 06, 2009 at 06:52 AM.
    Son of Legio
    Father of Paedric & Remlap
    Roma Surrectum II, Ages of Darkness II, Rome Total Realism & RTR: Imperium Surrectum Developer

    Mundus Bellicus - TWC - ModDB - Discord - Steam

  2. #2
    apple's Avatar Searching for 42
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Location
    Stockholm Sweden
    Posts
    11,780

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Barbarian AoR units
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    Britonic Slinger
    Brigantes Swordsman
    Britonic Spearmen
    Galatian Naked Spearmen
    Caladonian Infantry
    Helvetii Infantry
    Insubres Infantry
    Scordisci Infantry
    Caledonian Swordsman
    Volcae Axeman
    Celtic Axeman
    Bellovaci Infantry
    Tolistoboii Naked Fanatics
    Celtic Heavy Spearman
    Massilian Heavy Spearman
    Trocmi Heavy Spearmen
    Tectosages Heavy Swordsmen
    Celtic Heavy Swordsmen
    Samues Swordsmen
    Caledonian cavalry
    Ptolemaic Celtic Cavalry
    Paleoveneti Noble Cavalry
    Treverii Cavalry
    Celtic Noble Cavalry
    Scordisci Noble Cavalry
    Ligurian Noble Cavalry
    Brigantes Noble Cavalry
    Celtic Chariot
    Brythonic Heavy Chariot
    Trocmi Charioteers
    Protoslav Spearmen
    Mercenary Germanic Cavalry


    Other AoR
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    Illyrian Light Infantry
    Corsico Sardinian Infantry
    Illyrian Heavy Infantry
    Hyrkanian Slinger
    Agrianian Infantry
    Paiones Hippeis
    Thraikan Hippeis
    Thraikan Chosen Pezoi
    Thraikan Chosen Hippeis
    Thorakitai Arabes
    Eastern Skirmisher
    Hyrkanian Foot Archer
    Arabian Archer
    Aryan Spearman Archer
    Persian Takabara
    Persian Sparabara
    Eastern Levy Spearmen
    Median Spearmen
    Mercenary Elite Phalangites
    Armazi Guard
    Sogdian Mounted Javelineer
    Sogdian Heavy Horse Archer
    Horoli Cavalry
    Iberian Cataphract
    Iberian 4horse Chariot
    Elite Saka Cataphract
    Iberian Royal Guard
    Eastern Generals Cavalry
    Kappadokes Infantry
    Kushan Cataphract
    Chorasmian Heavy Cavalry


    Boii units - ?

    Sarmatian units
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Sarmatian Levy Spearmen
    Bosporan Heavy Infantry
    Saka Horse Archers
    Roxolani Lancers
    Alan Horse Archers
    Siracae Noble Archers
    Saka Noble Cavalry
    Aorsi Noble Cavalry
    Sarmatian Roxolani Nobles


    Scythian units
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Scytho-Hellenic Archer
    Mardian Foot Archer
    Mardian Horse Archer
    Massagetae Horse Archer


    Gallaeci units + Iberian AoR
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    Iberian Skirmisher
    Cantabrian Bipenni Axeman
    Arevaci Spearman
    Arevaci Medium Cavalry
    Arevaci Heavy Cavalry
    Lusitanian Spearman
    Iberian Elite Scutarii
    Lusitanian Elite Scutarii
    Lusitanian Caetrati
    Falarica Infantry
    Gallaeci Elite Infantry
    Lusitanian Elite Caetrati
    Iberian Light Cavalry
    Lusitanian Light Cavalry
    Iberian Scutarii Cavalry
    Aquitani Light Horsemen
    Iberian Medium Cavalry
    Gallaeci Noble Cavalry
    Iberian Heavy Cavalry
    Iberian Infantry Scortamareva
    Gallaeci Armored General


    Carthage units
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Numidian Spearman
    Early Libyan Spearman
    Late Libyan Spearman
    Libyan Light Infantry


    Greek Units (Free Greeks).
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Massalian Thorakitai Hoplite
    Massalian Lonchophoroi
    Syracuse Levy Thureophoroi
    Syracusian Cavalry[/B]
    Syracusian Hipparchoi[/B]
    Royal Hoplite of Syracuse
    Cretan Native Archer
    Cretan Archers
    Aperantoi Toxotai
    Eyrytanes Toxotai
    Bithynian Levy Phalangites
    Athenian Marine
    Boiotian Epilektoi Hoplite
    Athenian Epilektoi
    Cretan Levy Hoplites
    Cretan Epilektoi Hoplite
    Celtohellenic Hoplite
    Boiotian Ekdromoi Hoplite
    Boiotian Xystophoroi
    Achaian Phalangites
    Achaian Elite Phalangites
    Achaian Hoplite
    Boiotian Pezhetairoi
    Naupaktos Hoplite
    Ophioneis Thorakitai
    Syracusian Tarentinoi
    Greek Hippotoxotoi
    Greek Aspidophoroi
    Aetolian Aspidophoroi
    Greek Lonchophoroi
    Phrygian Heavy Cavalry
    Campanian Cavalry
    Taxeis Hoplite
    Greek Generals Guard Cavalry
    Boiotian levy peltasts
    Boiotian Cavalry
    Syracusian Somatophylakes
    Spartan Archer



    Pergamon units B]All done?[/B]
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Pergamon Ekdromoi Hoplite
    Pergamon Thorakitai Hoplite Epikletoi
    Pergamon Thorakitai Argyraspides
    Pergamon Royal Hypaspistai
    Pergamon Phrygian Doryphoroi
    Pergamon Xystophoroi Cavalry
    Pergamon Heavy Cataphract


    Pontic units All done?
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Khaldian Mountaineer
    Pontic Thorakitai Hoplite


    Seleucid unitsAll done?
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Seleucid Katakoi Phalangites
    Palmyran Phalangites
    Argyraspides
    Seleucid Thorakitai
    Babylon Horse Archer
    Babylonian Archer


    Dacian units - All done?
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Dacian Skirmisher
    Getic Archer
    Dacian Comatus
    Comati Hoplite
    Thraikan Falxman
    Thraikan Elite Falxmen
    Dacian Elite Hoplite
    Dacian Comati Cavalry
    Dacian Warlord General


    Parthain units All done?
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Hyrkanian horsemen
    Dahae Horse-archers


    Ptolemaic unitsAll done?
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Nobataen Cavalry
    Ptolemaic Celtic Swordsman
    Nabatean Horse Archer


    Macedonia unitsAll done?
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Agema Elite Phalangite
    Basilikoi Peltastai
    Amfipolitan Pezoi
    Macedonian Katoikoi Phalangites
    Macedonian Pezoi Bottias
    Thureophoroi Hippeis
    Thessalian Hippeis


    Belgae units All done?
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    Belgae Noble Cavalry


    Roman units - Reserved for rory.
    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    Lucani Pedites Extraordinarii
    Roman Velite
    Allied Velite
    Allied Republic Legion
    Polybian Republic Legion
    Bruttian Spearman
    Roman Triarii
    Allied Triarii
    Roman Early General
    Roman Armoured General
    Latin Medium Cavalry
    Cohors I Scythica Milliaria
    Cohors IX Parthorvm Milliaria
    Cohors II Thracia Milliaria
    Cohors III Aegyptia Milliaria
    Cohors IV Hispanorvm Milliaria
    Cohors VII Dalmatia Milliaria
    Cohors V Gallorvm Milliaria
    Cohors VIII Belgae Milliaria
    Cohors I Batavorvm Milliaria
    Cohors X Italia Milliaria
    Roman Antesignani
    Aedui Cavalry
    Ala IV Hispanorum Campagonum Eqvestrvs
    Ala I Venetia Eqvestrvs
    Ala I Sarmatarvm Eqvestrvs
    Ala VII Illyricum Eqvestrvs
    Ala Primae Batavorum Equitata - EDIT DVK: This description is done.
    Ala II Thracia Eqvestrvs Victix Romanorvm
    Ala V Gallorum et Pannoniorum Eqvestrvs
    Ala I Gallorum et Pannoniorum Catafractata
    Roman Evocatii
    Last edited by apple; September 15, 2009 at 12:43 PM.
    Son of Legio
    Father of Paedric & Remlap
    Roma Surrectum II, Ages of Darkness II, Rome Total Realism & RTR: Imperium Surrectum Developer

    Mundus Bellicus - TWC - ModDB - Discord - Steam

  3. #3

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    R
    Republican Legionary Velite

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {roman_velite} Republican Legionary Velite

    {roman_velite_descr}
    Primary Armor = Flesh\nCan Hide in Long Grass\n\nVelites (Singular: Veles) were a class of infantry in the Polybian legions of the early Roman republic. Velites were light infantry and skirmishers who were armed with a number of light javelins, or hastae velitares, to fling at the enemy, and also carried short thrusting swords, or gladii for use in melee. They rarely wore armour, as they were the youngest and poorest soldiers in the legion and could not afford much equipment. They did carry small wooden shields for protection though, and wore a headdress made from wolf skin to allow officers to differentiate between them and other heavier legionaries.\n\nVelites did not form their own units; a number of them were attached to each maniple of hastati, principes and triarii, therefore, they were variously mixed into the ranks of the cohorts. They were typically used as a screening force, driving off enemy skirmishers and disrupting enemy formations with javelin fire before retiring behind the lines to allow the heavier armed men to attack. They were normally the ones who engaged war elephants and chariots if they were present on the field; their high mobility and ranged weaponry made them much more effective against these enemies than heavy infantry. An early Roman legion contained approximately 1,000 velites. Velites were eventually done away with after the Marian reforms.\n\nVelites were descended from an earlier class of light infantry, leves, dating from the Camillan legion of the 5th century BC, who had a very similar role to the velites. They were also the poorer and younger soldiers in the legion, though the rorarii and accensi classes were considerably poorer and were eventually done away with, having insufficient equipment to be effective soldiers. Leves were likewise armed with a number of javelins, but carried a spear rather than a sword. Like the velites, leves did not have their own units, but were attached to units of hastati.\n\n
    Velites were first used at the siege of Capua in 211 BC, and were made up of citizens who would normally be too poor to join the hastati but where called up due a shortage of manpower. They were trained to ride on horseback with the Equites and jump down at a given signal to fling javelins at the enemy. After the siege, they were adopted into the legions as a force of irregular light infantry for ambushing and harassing the enemy with javelins before the battle began in earnest.\n\nWith the formal military reforms of Gaius Marius in 107 BC, designed to combat a shortage of manpower due to wars against Jugurtha, the different classes of units were done away with entirely. The wealth and age requirements were scrapped. Now soldiers would join as a career, rather than as service to the city, and would all be equipped as medium infantry with the same, state purchased equipment.

    {roman_velite_descr_short}
    Velites were light infantry and skirmishers who were armed with a number of light javelins, or hastae velitares, to fling at the enemy, and also carried short thrusting swords, or gladii for use in melee.


    Roman Republican Triarii

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {roman_triarii} Roman Republican Triarii

    {roman_triarii_descr}
    Primary Armor = Metal\nHardy\nDisciplined\n\nTriarii are tough heavy spearmen who make up the third and most senior part of a Roman Legion before the military Reforms of Gaius Marius. They carry a long "hoplite-style" spear (the hasta) which is used to thrust, a long shield and a gladius. They are the oldest veteran soldiers, and well armoured – hardly surprising, given that they are also drawn from the richest section of society. \n\nThe triarii are the last available line in early-pattern Republican Legions. "Going to the triarii" is a Roman saying meaning carrying on to the bitter end, and if they are used it’s a sign that the moment of decision in a battle has arrived. \n\nHistorically, triarii spent their own money on their equipment and could afford to buy the best of everything.

    {roman_triarii_descr_short}
    Triarii are tough, experienced spearmen who are the senior element - the backbone - of an early Roman Legion. They can be a decisive force in battle.


    Republican Legatus Legionis

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {roman_early_general} Republican Legatus Legionis

    {roman_early_general_descr}
    Primary Armor = Metal\nElite\nDisciplined\nHardy\nInspires Friendly Units\n\nThe Legatus Legionis is a general given overall command of a Legion. The commander of a legion in our period was invariably a Senator of some standing - a man who had already had a varied military and administrative career, and who had probably reached the rank of praetor at Rome. His official title was legatus legionis. Such legionary legates were, on the whole, tough, experienced and highly competent officers, though there were some notable exceptions, and all must, at some time, have served as junior officers or tribuni.\n\nDuring the 1st century BC, Roman influence was to expand rapidly, initially eastwards, and finally culminating in Caesar's Gallic conquests. Naturally, this new 'empire' would demand more and more troops to maintain it, and to enable further expansion. Ironically, fresh levies of troops became available as a result of the extremely bloody 'Social' wars between Rome and the disenchanted Italian tribes. Though Rome prevailed, the result was a general extension of Roman citizenship to the other tribes. These new citizens became instantly eligible to serve in the Legions, and not just as 'Allied' irregulars or auxiliaries.\n\nHowever, there being no funds to establish these new legions, it fell upon wealthy citizens to provide the necessaries. This resulted in many 'private' armies, dependent on their founder and not on the Roman State. The Dictator Sulla, is reputed to have been the first to instigate an oath of loyalty to himself by his soldiers. Perhaps for this reason the 1st century BC produced some remarkable military figures. Marius, Sulla, Pompey and Caesar, to name but the most famous. Their personal ambitions inevitably led to conflict, and the resulting civil wars occupied much of this century. But the empire continued to expand as one or the other of them pursued their ambitions overseas.\n\nThis man has a bodyguard of loyal spear-armed cavalry to accompany him onto the field. Armed with spears, these men are shock cavalry, able to deliver a devastating charge attack; they are then well trained enough to fight effectively in continued hand-to-hand combat.\n\nLike all general's guards, this unit is best committed to the fight at the point of crisis, when the general's inspirational leadership and the combat power of his men can tip the balance. This unit can also make a fine Military Governor in captured regions, but if he's inept, it's better to replace him!

    {roman_early_general_descr_short}
    The Legatus Legionis is a general given overall command of a Legion.


    Imperial Legatus Legionis

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {roman_armoured_general} Imperial Legatus Legionis

    {roman_armoured_general_descr}
    Primary Armor = Metal\nElite\nDisciplined\nHardy\nInspires Friendly Units\n\nThe Legatus Legionis is a general given overall command of a Legion. The commander of a legion in our period was invariably a Senator of some standing - a man who had already had a varied military and administrative career, and who had probably reached the rank of praetor at Rome. His official title was legatus legionis because, while theoretically the Emperor held all military power, in practice he delegated it to trusted Senators. Such legionary legates were, on the whole, tough, experienced and highly competent officers, though there were some notable exceptions, and all must, at some time, have served as junior officers or tribuni. He has a bodyguard of loyal spear-armed and armoured cavalry to accompany him onto the field. Armed with spears, these men are shock cavalry, able to deliver a devastating charge attack; they are then well trained enough to fight effectively in continued hand-to-hand combat.\n\nLike all general's guards, this unit is best committed to the fight at the point of crisis, when the general's inspirational leadership and the combat power of his men can tip the balance.

    {roman_armoured_general_descr_short}
    The Legatus Legionis is a general given overall command of a Legion.


    S
    Suebian Skirmisher

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {suebian_skirmisher} Suebian Skirmisher

    {suebian_skirmisher_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\n"We must come now to speak of the Suebi, who do not, like the Chatti or Tencteri, constitute a single nation. They actually occupy more than half of Germany, and are divided into a number of distinct tribes under distinct names, though all generally are called Suebi. They can be identified by their fashion of the hair style called the Suebian knot, which distinguishes the freeman from the slave, in other words, as a badge of social rank." Tacitus.\n\nThis unit has wide recruitment area due to its hardy nature and disciplined fighting style. Experts at hiding in forest or field, they have a deadly accurate missile volley.


    {suebian_skirmisher_descr_short}
    Suebian Skirmishers are extremely versatile and deadly accurate.


    Scordisci Infantry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    The Scordisci were an ancient tribe centered in what would become the Roman Provinces of lower Pannonia and Moesia at the confluence of the Savus (Sava), Dravus (Drava) and Danube rivers. They were historically notable from the beginning of the third century B.C. until the turn of the common era. At their zenith, their influence stretched over regions comprising parts of the present-day Austria, Croatia, Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Their tribal name may be connected to the name of the Scordus (Šar), mountain that was located between the regions of Illyria and Paionia.
    Their materialization after 278 BC, as some of the survivors of the Celtic invasions of Greece, settling the abovementioned region and imposing themselves as a thin, yet powerful, ruling class. During Macedon's zenith, the attention of the Scordisci was focussed on Pannonia, consolidating their grip of the region. They controlled the various Pannonian tribes, extracting tribute and enjoying the status of the most powerful warriors in the central Balkans, erecting fortresses in Singidunum and Taurunum, founding the city of Belgrade. The Roman's first siege of Sisa, combined with the turmoil following Alexander the Great's death, prompted the Scordisci to turn their attention southward. They subjegated a number of tribes in Moesia, including the Dardani, several west Thracian tribes and the Paeonians. From 141 BC, the Scordisci were constantly involved in battles against Roman held Macedonia. In 135 BC they were defeated by Cosconius in Thrace. In 118 BC, according to a memorial stone discovered near Thessalonica, Sextus Pompeius, probably the grandfather of the triumvir, was slain fighting against them near Stobi. In 114 BC they surprised and destroyed the army of Gaius Porcius Cato in the western mountains of Serbia, but were defeated by Minucius Rufus in 107 BC.

    They still, from time to time, gave trouble to the Roman governors of Macedonia, whose territory they invaded in combination with the Maedi and Dardani. Lucius Cornelius Scipio Asiaticus finally overcame them in 88 BC and drove them across the Danube. After this, the power of the Scordisci declined rapidly. This decline was more a result of the political situation rather than the effects of Roman campaigns, as their client tribes, especially the Pannonians, became more powerful and politically independent. Between 56 and 50 BC, the Scordisci were defeated by Burebista’s Dacians, and became subject to him.


    T
    Treveri Cavalry

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {treveri_cavalry} Treveri Cavalry

    {treveri_cavalry_descr}Trained\nImpetuous

    Coming directly from the skillful trainers and veteran cavalry, the Treveri cavalryman will sometimes have need for better protection, such as helmets and larger shields, when going off to war. When they equip themselves in this manner, the medium cavalry wing is born. Their helmets are of true Gallic make and model. Such superior helmets of Gallic make and design were adopted by the Romans eventually. The Gallic saddle enables a more effective strike from the riders weapons as they are extremely secure and firmly placed in the saddle than riders in common saddles. For the sake of speed, these horsemen do not wear armor, instead they rest all hopes of victory on their skill with their javelins, raining them down upon their targets, and when those are used up, they bring their close combat spear to arms and continue the fight in that manner.\n\nThough these riders can travel rapidly across the field of combat, the best Belgic generals will not risk these men in fighting heavily armed infantry or cavalry front the front, but would have them charge the back of these formation in order to achieve the best killing rate possible. This wing of Treveri cavalry can handle lightly armed troops with ease, though with any cavalry, spearmen can mean trouble.\n\n

    The Treveri were reported to have boasted of their Germanic origin. Their very name appears to be of mixed origin (Celtic, Germanic, etc.), and may mean "river crossers." The presence of hall villas of the type in northern Germanic territory , alongside Celtic types of hall villas, corroborates the idea that they may be Celto-Germans. Also the Eburones and Condrusi were dependants of the Treveri and were identified by Caesar as Germani. The German element among the Treveri may have arrived there in the third or second century B.C. The Treveri also had the largest complement of horse warriors in Gaul and provided Julius Caesar with his best cavalry. After Caesar's successful campaigns in Gaul, the Treveri were forcefully integrated into the Roman Empire, thereby losing not only their political independence but their cultural identity as well. Following the failure of the uprising of 54/53 BC the leading families of the Treveri are reported to have crossed the Rhine, to settle among the Germanic tribes.\n\n

    Along with the Gauls of times past, Celtic tribal cavalry were apart of all the major expeditions and invasions that came out of the Celtic realms and onto the scene of the classical world. In 391 B.C. at Clusium forces of Lingones and Senones crushed the Romans which was followed by another victory at Allia in 390 B.C. Tribal cavalry forces and chariots fought bravely with their spear wielding kinsmen, the gaesatae, at Telamon in 225 B.C. Thousands of cavalrymen fought as mercenaries under Hannibal of Carthage at Trebbia in 218 B.C. and in 217 B.C. at Lake Trasimene. They rode with Brennus by the thousands into Greece in 279 B.C. These warriors would find employment as freemen up until the time of the fall of Alesia and Uxellodunum in Gaul. In the east, free Celts could still be found in Galatia, serving as mercenaries in Asia Minor. After that, they would fill Roman ranks as auxiliaries and cavalry.\n\n

    {treveri_cavalry_descr_short}Extremely effective cavalry that Caesar himself utilised. Quick, tough and loyal.


    Thorakitai Arabes

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {thorakitai_arabes} Thorakitai Arabes{thorakitai_arabes _descr} The Thorakitai Arabes are a heavy infantry troop which fight with javelins, a sword and a thureos (or thyreos), an oblong shield. The literal translation of the term is cuirassiers, which suggests that they may have worn a short Celtic mail shirt and a helmet.

    The Thorakitai were similar to the Thureophoroi, although they were more heavily armoured. Thorakitai were used in armies of the Hellenistic Period in a variety of tactical situations. They were a type of armoured but mobile infantry who did not require a rigid formation to be effective in combat. They could either fight nearly as skirmishers on rough terrain as they were armed with heavy javelins. Or, when the main hoplite line had difficulty, they could reinforce them and fight in the Greek hoplite fashion, with a short lance held overhand. Their versatility made them important troop since the 4th century BC, but they became a bit obsolete when the Hellenistic States started to use the Macedonian phalanx.

    { thorakitai_arabes _descr_short} Medium infantry , which can serve as heavy skirmisher.


    Trocmi Charioteers

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    The Trocmi were a Gallic people in north-eastern Galatia, one of the three old communities in that region, the Tectosages, the Tolistobogi and themselves, who were at one stage in a treaty with Rome against Pontus. Their capital was at Tavium, but after Manlius' subjugation in 189 B.C their lands were finally given to Deiotarus around 45 B.C, who eventually ruled an area from Galatia to Armenia Minor.

    In his account of the triumph of Gnaeus Manlius Vulso over the Gauls of Galatia, Livy mentions 'carpenta' - two wheeled battle chariots which were full of weapons and many different kinds of 'spolia'. Similar chariots were used by the Boii and Insubres; indeed the use of chariots in warfare is something that the Gauls migrating to Asia Minor retained when they established Galatia in 270 B.C. The fighters in the light chariots would no doubt have been rich enough to afford the chariot itself, but also the best equipment and weapons, which were eventually on display at Vulso's triumph. The light two wheeled chariots would have been used mostly to harass the enemy from a distance with thrown spears, rarely in melee combat, though no doubt they could pack a substantial punch, being especially effective against loosely formed troops.


    U

    V
    Veneti Skirmisher

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 
    {veneti_skirmisher} Veneti Skirmisher

    {veneti_skirmisher_descr}
    Primary Armour = Flesh\n\nThe Veneti are a tribe primarily known for its naval strength. They possess a secret in their fighting ranks in the form of their skirmishers. Despite their tribe’s main preoccupation, trade, in Gallic fashion, they are strong in warrior tradition, and they train excellent skirmishers for this ancient tradition. As with their brothers and often rivals further inland, these warriors are not trained to use their blades in hand to hand combat with great results. That kind of training is not emphasized for them. Where they show their greatest skill is with their javelins. As young boys, they used smaller versions of their javelins in the lakes, streams, and coastal inlets to harpoon fish and catch other small aquatic animals. With this history behind them they perform admirably with the javelin, much to the displeasure of the enemies they face.\n\nThe Veneti were renown for their impressive, vast fleet in western Gaul. Like their southern neighbours dwelling in the Pictones tribe, lands belonging to the Veneti sit astride the common trade routes that connected Britannia, Gaul and the somewhat Romanized region of southern Gaul, Provence, into a network of goods and wealth. Their many trading ships and contacts in Britannia allowed them a huge portion of the profits that originated in that land, virtually controlling the tin and metals trade and all the shipping with Britannia.\n\nThough complete descriptions of Veneti sailing vessels are unknown, The Greek geographer Strabo records that their sails were made of leather and could obviously make the long, often stormy voyage to Britannia. One inch nails helped to secure the one foot thick beams to the frame of their ships. Strabo recorded that their ships were exceptionally sea worthy, very well suited for the stormy weather patterns and gales that occur often of their coastal trade routes, exceeding the Roman ships in those categories of naval ability. The Veneti ships could come sail much closer to the shore than the Roman ships. Its possible that side rudders similar to the ones Romans made were used to maneuver and steer their fleet.\n\nIn war Caesar was successfully able to storm several of their towns. However, at the last moment, the Veneti always managed to vacate and escape by sea to an island or peninsula. The Veneti participated in the first recorded naval battle of the Atlantic in 56 B.C. Against Julius Caesar their fleet of 220 ships went head to head with the fleet of Caesar off the coast of Morbihan Bay, whose little Roman caravels couldn't even ram the larger Veneti ships. The small Roman ships sat lower and had less height which allowed the Celts to hurl javelins down atop the Roman troop in their ships. In response to this weakness, the legionaries used hooks attached to long poles to cut the rope and sails of the Veneti fleet. Being powered only by oars, this put the Veneti at a disadvantage. One by one the boats were surrounded and boarded, it's crew overwhelmed, and then set on fire. This happened many times over the course of the battle. Eventually, the ships that were still intact were set to escape, but the wind that was present throughout the battle suddenly diminished and died, leaving their craft helpless. In the end, Caesar executed the leaders of the tribe, and had the survivors sold as slaves.

    {veneti_skirmisher_descr_short}
    Veneti Skirmisher


    W

    X

    Y

    Z
    Last edited by apple; September 06, 2009 at 06:58 AM.

  4. #4
    dvk901's Avatar Consummatum est
    Patrician

    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    20,984

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Just eliminate them...but make sure the one pointing to EDU is still there.

    Creator of: "Ecce, Roma Surrectum....Behold, Rome Arises!"
    R.I.P. My Beloved Father

  5. #5
    Arnspac's Avatar Miss You Calvin
    Join Date
    Jul 2006
    Location
    Canada
    Posts
    1,549

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Quote Originally Posted by dvk901 View Post
    Just eliminate them...but make sure the one pointing to EDU is still there.

    errrrr..uummmm....which one might that be

    I was checking the EU TUT and if I'm right all I touch is the paragraph and not any { }'s

    EDIT - answered
    Last edited by Arnspac; July 11, 2009 at 07:51 AM.
    Cu mândrie, under the Patronage of leif_erikson


    There is no disease I spit on more than treachery.

  6. #6
    dvk901's Avatar Consummatum est
    Patrician

    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    20,984

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Those are not redundant. Those are two different units. One is Barbarian, the other is eastern, mostly. The description name for {slinger} should just say 'Slinger', not 'Barbarian Slinger'.

    Creator of: "Ecce, Roma Surrectum....Behold, Rome Arises!"
    R.I.P. My Beloved Father

  7. #7

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    All looks good - some minor corrections only:

    The Phrygian Heavy Cavalry are Xystophoroi, which means they carry a xyston, a long (about 3.5–4.25 meters (11–14 ft)) thrusting spear. The xyston is used for the initial charge, then the Phrygian Heavy Cavalry switch to a war axe to engage in melee fighting. They wear a bronze Phrygian helmet with cheek guards; the mPhrygian cap used as a symbol of the French and American struggles for independence takes is a more modern derivative of this. The Phrygian Heavy Cavalry also wear scale armour, which offers them good protection in the impact following the charge.

    Phrygia was a kingdom in the west central part of Anatolia, in what is now modern Turkey. The Phrygians (Phruges or Phryges) initially lived in the Southern Balkans, according to Herodotus, under the name of Bryges (/Briges), changing it to Phruges after their final migration to Anatolia, via the Hellespont. The Bryges had a close relation with the Trojans, and historians believe that their culture was similar. The state of Phrygia arose in the 8th century BC with its capital at Gordium. During this period, the Phrygians extended eastward and encroached upon the kingdom of Urartu, the descendants of the Hurrians, a former rival of the Hittites. A famous king of this period is Midas, who is said to turn everything he touched into gold.

    In 690 BC, however, Phrygia was overwhelmed by Iranian Cimmerian invaders, then conquered by its neighbour, Lydia, during the reign of the King Creosus (560-546 BC), proverbially known for his wealth. Lydian Croesus was conquered by Cyrus in 546 BC, and Phrygia passed under Persian dominion. After Darius became Persian Emperor in 521 BC, he remade the ancient trade route into the Persian "Royal Road" and instituted administrative reforms that included setting up satrapies. The capital of the Phrygian satrapy was established at Dascylion.

    Under Persian rule, the Phrygians seem to have lost their intellectual acuity and independence. Phrygians became stereotyped among later Greeks and the Romans as passive and dull.
    Alexander the Great passed through Gordium in 333 BC, famously severing the Gordian Knot in the temple of Sabazios ("Zeus"). The legend (possibly promulgated by Alexander's publicists) was that whoever untied the knot would be master of Asia. With Gordium sited on the Persian Royal Road that led through the heart of Anatolia, the prophecy had some geographical plausibility. With Alexander, Phrygia became part of the wider Hellenistic world. After Alexander's death, his successors squabbled over Anatolian dominions.

    Later, Gauls overran the eastern part of Phrygia which became part of Galatia. The former capital of Gordium was captured and destroyed by the Gauls soon afterwards and disappeared from history. In imperial times, only a small village existed on the site, and, in 188 BC, the remnant of Phrygia came under control of Pergamon. In 133 BC, western Phrygia passed to Rome.

    The Phrygians venerated Sabazios, the sky and father-god depicted on horseback. Although the Greeks associated Sabazios with Zeus, representations of him, even at Roman times, show him as a horseman god. Phrygia developed an advanced Bronze Age culture.
    The earliest traditions of Greek music derived from Phrygia, transmitted through the Greek colonies in Anatolia, and included the Phrygian mode, which was considered to be the warlike mode in ancient Greek music. Phrygian Midas, the king of the "golden touch", was tutored in music by Orpheus himself, according to the myth. Another musical invention that came from Phrygia was the aulos, a reed instrument with two pipes. Marsyas, the satyr who first formed the instrument using the hollowed antler of a stag, was a Phrygian follower of Cybele. He unwisely competed in music with the Olympian Apollo and inevitably lost, whereupon Apollo flayed Marsyas alive and provocatively hung his skin on Cybele's own sacred tree, a pine.
    The Phrygians used the Phoenician alphabet, but their language was Indo-European, and although several inscriptions have been found, nobody has yet been able to decipher them.

    {phrygian_heavy_cavalry_descr_short} Heavy cavalry best use for flanking and charging into the back of an infantry line.


    Under patronage of Spirit of Rob; Patron of Century X, Pacco, Cherryfunk, Leif Erikson.

  8. #8
    apple's Avatar Searching for 42
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Location
    Stockholm Sweden
    Posts
    11,780

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Another best of description. I like it.
    Added.
    /Curator apple
    Son of Legio
    Father of Paedric & Remlap
    Roma Surrectum II, Ages of Darkness II, Rome Total Realism & RTR: Imperium Surrectum Developer

    Mundus Bellicus - TWC - ModDB - Discord - Steam

  9. #9
    Father Jack's Avatar expletive intended
    Join Date
    Apr 2007
    Location
    Ratae Corieltauvorum
    Posts
    5,208

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    apple please read!
    Nabotaean Cavalry do not exist, they are Nabotaean Archers instead yet in the mod they are still called Nabotaean Cavalry. I will redo their description and post in in the pick and mix thread
    Pedicabo ego vos et irrumabo.

  10. #10
    dvk901's Avatar Consummatum est
    Patrician

    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    20,984

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Quote Originally Posted by Macky View Post
    apple please read!
    Nabotaean Cavalry do not exist, they are Nabotaean Archers instead yet in the mod they are still called Nabotaean Cavalry. I will redo their description and post in in the pick and mix thread
    Folks, the 'Nobataean' name is correct....unless we're talking about a different people here..

    http://www.twcenter.net/forums/showt...an#post2482006

    Post#30

    Creator of: "Ecce, Roma Surrectum....Behold, Rome Arises!"
    R.I.P. My Beloved Father

  11. #11
    Arnspac's Avatar Miss You Calvin
    Join Date
    Jul 2006
    Location
    Canada
    Posts
    1,549

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    From Macky;
    Nabotaean Cavalry do not exist, they are Nabotaean Archers instead yet in the mod they are still called Nabotaean Cavalry.

    From tone;
    In the mod there are Nabatean archers (foot) and Nabatean horse archers.

    From dvk901;
    Folks, the 'Nobataean' name is correct....unless we're talking about a different people here..

    Which one, or all three?
    Cu mândrie, under the Patronage of leif_erikson


    There is no disease I spit on more than treachery.

  12. #12
    Father Jack's Avatar expletive intended
    Join Date
    Apr 2007
    Location
    Ratae Corieltauvorum
    Posts
    5,208

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Quote Originally Posted by Arnspac View Post
    From Macky;
    Nabotaean Cavalry do not exist, they are Nabotaean Archers instead yet in the mod they are still called Nabotaean Cavalry.
    Thats what I meant, the description will still need to be changed as I wrote it before I saw them as a foot archer unit. I only saw their EU entry.
    Pedicabo ego vos et irrumabo.

  13. #13
    Arnspac's Avatar Miss You Calvin
    Join Date
    Jul 2006
    Location
    Canada
    Posts
    1,549

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Quote Originally Posted by Macky View Post
    Thats what I meant, the description will still need to be changed as I wrote it before I saw them as a foot archer unit. I only saw their EU entry.
    Yeah I knew where you were going Macky, I'm just getting a little paranoid by the unit names.
    Cu mândrie, under the Patronage of leif_erikson


    There is no disease I spit on more than treachery.

  14. #14

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    In the mod there are Nabatean archers (foot) and Nabatean horse archers.


    Under patronage of Spirit of Rob; Patron of Century X, Pacco, Cherryfunk, Leif Erikson.

  15. #15
    dvk901's Avatar Consummatum est
    Patrician

    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    20,984

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    I yield to what Tone said.

    Creator of: "Ecce, Roma Surrectum....Behold, Rome Arises!"
    R.I.P. My Beloved Father

  16. #16

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    What we're talking about is the Nabataeans - Arabs of southern Jordan, Canaan and northern Arabia, whose centre was Petra - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nabataeans

    The Nobataeans are completely different and are from Ethiopia near the Nubians.

    ...and yes, both Nabataean foot archers and horse archers are in the mod


    Under patronage of Spirit of Rob; Patron of Century X, Pacco, Cherryfunk, Leif Erikson.

  17. #17
    dvk901's Avatar Consummatum est
    Patrician

    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    20,984

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    I hope the unit description guys are checking the Beta Forum for errors in unit descriptions. I have been fixing a slew of them, but some of them are just plain not done yet. And I'm about to go into ORBIT because my Roman unit descriptions aren't done. This is not rocket science. We need to get this stuff done so that it can be tested, proof read and at least scrutinized for validity and correctness.

    Creator of: "Ecce, Roma Surrectum....Behold, Rome Arises!"
    R.I.P. My Beloved Father

  18. #18

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Basically we need ONE person to take responsibility for this and put a coherent list together of what's missing, and maybe pass out what's remaining to the unit description guys. The same with the unit cards. The other thing I'm wondering about is what's needed to get all of Tzar's new building icons in there as I haven't seen them yet.

    I agree with DVK, we need to crack on faster with this stuff otherwise it's going to be after Christmas.


    Under patronage of Spirit of Rob; Patron of Century X, Pacco, Cherryfunk, Leif Erikson.

  19. #19

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Campanian Cavalry :

    Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

    {merc_campanian_cavalry} Campanian Cavalry
    {merc_campanian_cavalry_descr}
    The Campanian Cavalry are superb heavy horsemen from Campania, in southern Italy. Armed with the greek Xyston lance and the Kopis slashing swords, they are best used as shock cavalry.\n\nDuring the Second Punic War (218-201 BC), they defected from the Romans to the Carthaginians after the battle of Cannae in August 216 BC. When the Romans reconquered Capua, they put a great deal of the population to the sword, thus ending the great tradition of heavy shock cavalry for the Romans. They have served as elite mercenary cavalry throughout the western Mediterranean, in particular the Romans. They are a high-status group in both the social and economic sense. Rome relied heavily on them, indeed they were given the Roman citizenship, and a monument was erected in their honor in Rome. Campania was inhabited at first by the Oscans and then by the Etruscans. The main settlement of Campania is believed to have been founded by the Etruscans in around 600 BC, giving the settlement the Etruscan name of 'Capue' and the resulting Latin name of 'Capua'. The region of Campania fell under the control of the Romans in 343 BC, during the 1st Samnite War.

    {merc_campanian_cavalry_descr_short}
    The Campanian Cavalry are superb heavy horsemen from Campania, in southern Italy. They are best use as shock cavalry.


    ownership carthage, romans_brutii
    Under the patronage of apple.
    Patron of ybbon66.

  20. #20
    dvk901's Avatar Consummatum est
    Patrician

    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    20,984

    Default Re: Unit descriptions

    Paedric, you must not change the text inside the brackets {}. That will render the description useless as it won't show up. This should be like this:

    ¬----------------
    {campanian_cavalry} Campanian Cavalry

    {campanian_cavalry_descr}
    The Campanian Cavalry are superb heavy horsemen from Campania, in southern Italy. Armed with the greek Xyston lance and the Kopis slashing swords, they are best used as shock cavalry.\n\nDuring the Second Punic War (218-201 BC), they defected from the Romans to the Carthaginians after the battle of Cannae in August 216 BC. When the Romans reconquered Capua, they put a great deal of the population to the sword, thus ending the great tradition of heavy shock cavalry for the Romans. They have served as elite mercenary cavalry throughout the western Mediterranean, in particular the Romans. They are a high-status group in both the social and economic sense. Rome relied heavily on them, indeed they were given Roman citizenship, and a monument was erected in their honor in Rome. Campania was inhabited at first by the Oscans and then by the Etruscans. The main settlement of Campania is believed to have been founded by the Etruscans in around 600 BC, giving the settlement the Etruscan name of 'Capue' and the resulting Latin name of 'Capua'. The region of Campania fell under the control of the Romans in 343 BC, during the 1st Samnite War.

    {campanian_cavalry_descr_short}
    The Campanian Cavalry are superb heavy horsemen from Campania, in southern Italy. They are best use as shock cavalry.

    Creator of: "Ecce, Roma Surrectum....Behold, Rome Arises!"
    R.I.P. My Beloved Father

Page 1 of 16 1234567891011 ... LastLast

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •