Pikeman
InfantryEvolution
STRONG AGAINST
You win these trades cost-effectively.
WEAK AGAINST
Avoid these fights or bring support.
Strategic Analysis
Tactical Identity
The Pikeman is your **Castle Age insurance policy** against Knight rushes. While not as devastating as the Halberdier, his +22 bonus damage is enough to make Knights think twice before diving your base.
Tactical Playbook
Knight Defense
Keep a small group of Pikemen near your vulnerable resources. Even 3-4 can deter a Knight raid, buying time for reinforcements.
Siege Protection
Position them around your Mangonels or Scorpions. Knights love to snipe siege, but Pikemen make that a very costly trade.
Economic Pressure
At only 35F/25W with no gold cost, you can produce them continuously while saving gold for Knights or upgrades.
Critical Point
Still very vulnerable to **Crossbowmen** and **Men-at-Arms**. A ball of Crossbows will melt your Pikemen before they can close the distance.
Understanding The Stats
The Pikeman is a transitional unit - better than Spearman but not yet the anti-cavalry powerhouse. His stats reflect this intermediate role.
Upgraded Bonus
Up from Spearman's +15. Against a Knight (5 armor), you deal (4-5)+22 = 21 damage per hit. Still deadly in groups.
Same Economy
Same 35F/25W cost as Spearman. The upgrade itself costs 215F/90G - worth it when facing Knight pressure.
Improved HP
+10 HP over the Spearman. This extra survivability helps you tank one more hit from Knights.
Timing Window
Available right when Knights become a threat. Research this upgrade immediately if enemy is going stable.
Coach's Tip
Your +22 bonus is respectable but not overwhelming. You need numbers to stop a Knight mass. Don't engage alone - cluster up and let them charge into your wall of pikes.
Mechanics & Bonuses
Attack Bonuses
| Target | Bonus Dmg |
|---|---|
| Cavalry | +22 |
| War Elephant | +25 |
| Camel | +18 |
Armor Classes
Infantry
Takes bonus damage from Hand Cannoneers, Slingers, and anti-infantry unique units.
Spearman
Weak to Skirmishers and Archers with Parthian Tactics.
