Scutarii Spearmen

Recruitment Cost 500
Upkeep Cost 100
Melee Attack 23
Weapon Damage 25
Bonus vs. Large 20
Charge Bonus 18
Melee Defence 58
Armour 60
Health 55
Base Morale 50
Strengths & Weaknesses
  • Good defensive unit
  • Low damage but average armour penetration
  • Average attack
  • Normal morale
Description

Scutarii, or shield bearers, take their name from the Latin word scutum, or shield, although it is highly unlikely the Iberians used this title for themselves. Regardless, the scutarii carried the thureos, a large, oval, wooden shield that was perfectly suited for use in man-to-man combat. They wore little armour, and this gave them greater mobility than many of their opponents, particularly the armoured Roman legionaries. This mobility was used to charge forward and then feign retreat in the hope of getting the enemy to pursue and break their lines. Once an enemy unit took the bait, the retreat would end, and a genuine attack on now-out-of-position and unsupported foes would be staged: a simple tactic, perhaps, but still a deadly one when used well.

Requires
Buildings
Faction Availability