Halberdier
InfantryEvolution
STRONG AGAINST
You win these trades cost-effectively.
WEAK AGAINST
Avoid these fights or bring support.
Strategic Analysis
Tactical Identity
The Halberdier is not just a counter unit; it is the **backbone** of many Imperial Age compositions. While they lose 1v1 against most gold units (Champions, Arbalesters), their massive bonus damage against cavalry makes them the most cost-effective unit in the game when used correctly.
Tactical Playbook
Anti-Cavalry Screen
Place them in front of your Arbalesters or Siege Onagers. They absorb the charge of Knights, protecting your high-value damage dealers.
Trash Wars
In late game when gold runs out, Halberdiers dominate Hussars. Controlling the 'Trash War' allows you to take map control and raid efficiently.
Meatshield
Even against ranged units, they are cheap enough (35 Food, 25 Wood) to absorb shots while your main units deal damage.
Critical Point
Never leave them unsupported against **Skirmishers** or **Archers**. They have 0 base Pierce Armor and take bonus damage from Skirmishers.
Understanding The Stats
The Halberdier's stat profile is misleading: mediocre base stats (6 Attack, 0 Armor) mask its true potential which lies entirely in hidden bonuses and extreme cost efficiency.
The Math of Bonus Damage
Attack of 6 is irrelevant. Against Cavalry, it deals 38 total damage. A fully upgraded Paladin has 5 Melee Armor. The calculation is (6 - 5) + 32 = 33 Damage per hit.
Infinite Gold Value
Costing 35 Food and 25 Wood means you trade renewable resources (Wood/Food) against your opponent's limited Gold units.
The Armor Vulnerability
Having 0 Base Armor makes them paper-thin. Skirmishers (usually weak) deal +3 bonus damage to them.
Attack Rate & Micro
They attack very slowly (every 3s vs 2s for Champions). This means they rely on the 'first hit'.
Coach's Tip
Don't look at your 6 Attack and feel weak. Your hidden +32 bonus is your real weapon. Focus on positioning - let the enemy cavalry come to YOU. Always research Squires for mobility.
Mechanics & Bonuses
Attack Bonuses
| Target | Bonus Dmg |
|---|---|
| Cavalry | +32 |
| War Elephant | +28 |
| Camel | +26 |
Armor Classes
Infantry
Takes bonus damage from Hand Cannoneers, Slingers, and anti-infantry unique units.
Spearman
Weak to Skirmishers and Archers with Parthian Tactics.
