Middle Earth Faction Focus – Rohan

Welcome to another thrilling edition of Faction Focus, where we delve into the world of Middle-earth. In this installment, we journey to the realm of the Horse Lords, Rohan, to explore the armies that have withstood constant turmoil and war. Join us as we unveil the might and tactics of the Rohirrim, offering valuable insights into creating a powerful Rohan army that will strike fear into the hearts of your enemies.

Since its founding, the kingdom of Rohan has faced relentless turmoil and war. As the Third Age draws to a close, the malevolent wizard Saruman seeks to bring ruin upon Rohan. Orcs, Uruk-hai, and Dunlendings rampage through the lands, leaving destruction in their wake. King Théoden, weakened and vulnerable under Saruman’s spell, struggles to protect his realm. However, the arrival of Gandalf the White shatters Saruman’s grip, restoring Rohan to its former glory. Although they cannot face Mordor and Isengard alone, the Rohirrim stand alongside their allies, ready to face the battles ahead.

Few can match the Rohirrim’s mastery of horseback combat. Their Army Bonus, “Ride for Ruin and the World’s Ending!,” grants a +1 Strength bonus on the Charge for Rohan Cavalry. Combined with the “Arise Riders of Théoden!” special rule, which awards a +1 Fight value bonus to Captains of Rohan, Riders of Rohan, and the Rohan Royal Guard when charging within 12″ of Théoden, the devastation of a Rohirrim cavalry charge becomes evident.

Despite the toll of passing years, King Théoden remains a formidable warrior, boasting a Fight value of 5 and 2 Attacks. Mounted on a horse, Théoden reaches a Strength of 5 on the Charge, thanks to the Rohan Army Bonus. As an exceptional leader, Théoden’s “Forth, and Fear no Darkness” special rule provides a 12″ Stand Fast! to his allies. However, beware the influence of Saruman’s agent, Gríma, who can reduce Théoden’s Fight value to 3 and restrict the use of Will points or declaration of Heroic Actions.

Éomer, with a Fight value of 5, 3 Attacks, and 3 Might, stands as the powerhouse of any Rohirrim charge. His special rule, “The Price of Grief,” grants a +1 To Wound for the remainder of the game should Théoden or Éowyn fall. It is essential for Éomer to seize every opportunity to charge.

Other notable heroes include Déorwine, the king’s loyal bodyguard, who can join his liege in battle through the “For Théoden!” special rule. Elfhelm, an excellent ranged threat, wields highly-accurate throwing spears. Gamling, bearing the Royal Standard of Rohan, enables nearby Rohan Hero models to regain lost Might points, ensuring the relentless charge of the cavalry.

Warriors of Rohan:

Riders of Rohan equip themselves with a hand weapon, shield, and bow, with the option to wield throwing weapons. This flexibility allows them to weaken foes from a distance before delivering the final blow. The Rohan Royal Guard, relinquishing their bows, gain an additional point of Fight value and Defense, solidifying their role as stalwart defenders.

While not suited for cavalry charges, Rohan Outriders excel at securing objectives. Their improved Shoot value of 3+ makes them deadly at long-range, while the “Vanguard” special rule allows them to benefit from a friendly Hero model’s Stand Fast!, regardless of distance. Perfect for securing objectives in the game’s final stages.

Tactical Strategies for Victory:

Budding generals must avoid the trap of always charging at the first opportunity when commanding an all-mounted Rohan army. This leaves the force vulnerable to counter-charges and encirclement. Instead, soften the opposition with ranged attacks, allowing your Riders to skirmish and eliminate high-value targets like opposing Cavalry and Hero mounts.

Timing is crucial for charging. Wait for the opportune moment while staying out of your opponent’s Charge range. Ideally, make your first Charge when you have lost Priority, ensuring as many Cavalry units as possible engage in combat. By doing so, your opponent cannot counter-charge since they have already moved. This strategic approach enables you to select favorable fights, tipping the odds in your favor and increasing the likelihood of eliminating your targets. Consider prioritizing damage to the army over engaging opposing Heroes in these situations.

Once in combat, constant movement is key for the Cavalry to maintain their bonuses, such as +1 Attack and the Knocked to the Ground bonus on the Charge. Using your Might points to declare Heroic Moves allows your Rohirrim to keep charging, ensuring their impact on the battlefield remains formidable.

Sample Army Lists:

To assist you in assembling a potent Rohan army, we’ve provided two example army lists. The first focuses on the Rohan Battlehost, serving as an excellent starting point for any Rohan force. It can also be adapted for the Riders of Théoden Legendary Legion. The second list incorporates different units and Heroes mentioned earlier, catering to higher points values and offering greater diversity.

Conclusion:
If the thought of commanding your own Rohan force and leading them into battle excites you, the Rohan Battlehost is an excellent starting point. Harness the skill and might of the Rohirrim cavalry, forge unbreakable alliances, and strive for victory in the war-torn lands of Middle-earth. Empower your heroes, strategize your charges, and unleash the fury of Rohan upon your foes. Victory awaits those who ride into battle with the indomitable spirit of the Horse Lords!

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