Welcome to another exciting edition of Faction Focus, where we turn our attention to the formidable armies of Dáin Ironfoot and the resolute Iron Hills Dwarves in the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game.
Unlike other Dwarf holds that are known for their wealth or craftsmanship, the Iron Hills Dwarves have earned their reputation through their military prowess. Led by the venerable Dáin Ironfoot, these Dwarves marched to aid Thorin Oakenshield during his time in Erebor and fought in the epic Battle of Five Armies against the forces of the Pale Orc.
The Iron Hills’ exceptional strategic timing and arrival at crucial moments are captured in their Army Bonus, “Ironfoot has come!” This ability grants a +1 or -1 modifier to determine which table edge they arrive from or where they deploy on the battlefield. Additionally, Dáin Ironfoot possesses the Master of Battle (4+) special rule, allowing him to counter enemy Heroic Actions without depleting his own Might points.
Heroes
Dáin Ironfoot is the natural leader of any Iron Hills army, boasting a Fight value of 6, 3 Attacks, Strength 5, and wielding a powerful two-handed hammer. With the Burly special rule, Dáin ignores the -1 penalty to the Duel roll while still benefiting from the +1 To Wound from his two-handed weapon. His sheer strength is unrivaled, and he even possesses the ability to headbutt opponents into submission!
Dáin’s exceptional leadership qualities include Fearless, ensuring he never flees the battlefield, and Lord of the Iron Hills, which enables all Iron Hills Dwarf models within 12″ to pass Courage tests. His Fearsome Charge ability strikes terror into the hearts of enemies until the end of the turn.
Aside from Dáin, Iron Hills Captains lead the ranks of their warriors. These stoic Dwarves are formidable fighters, boasting a Defense of 8 (with a shield) that can be bolstered to a potential Defense of 9 with the Shieldwall special rule. Their Master of Battle (5+) ability is ideal for countering Heroic Moves and shifting the odds in your favor.
Warriors
Iron Hills Dwarves are renowned for their strength, resilience, and outstanding characteristics, making them among the most formidable warriors in the game. What truly sets them apart is their Shieldwall ability, providing a +1 Defense bonus when in base contact with two or more other Iron Hills Dwarves, elevating their Defense to an impressive 8!
To address the movement limitations often faced by Dwarf armies, Iron Hills Goat Riders offer valuable mobility. With a Strength of 4 and war spears that grant a +1 To Wound on the Charge, they deliver powerful blows. Their Devastating Charge ability allows them to knock down Man-sized (or smaller) models on a 5+, leaving their foes vulnerable and exposed.
Tactics
Leverage the impressive characteristics of your Iron Hills Dwarves to your advantage. Whenever possible, position your lines strategically to entice the enemy into bottlenecks, enabling you to engage in one-on-one fights. Few can match the resilience of these iron-clad Dwarves.
Anchor your battleline and unleash a few Iron Hills Goat Riders led by Dáin Ironfoot on his war boar to strike at the enemy’s flanks. Dáin’s prowess in combat allows him to swiftly dispatch foes before utilizing Heroic Combatto engage juicier targets such as enemy Heroes or banners.
If the Scenario permits, you can form an impenetrable iron wall while unleashing devastating volleys of arrows with Iron Hills Dwarves armed with crossbows or employ the formidable firepower of an Iron Hills Ballista against advancing enemy forces.
Army Lists
Let’s explore two example army lists to help you get started with your Iron Hills Dwarves:
Our first list, tailored for 500 points, provides an excellent foundation for a fledgling force.
The second list, built for 750 points, incorporates additional units available to the Iron Hills Army, offering expanded strategic options.
Forge Your Iron Hills Dwarf Army Today!
If the prospect of commanding a mighty Iron Hills Dwarf army ignites your passion, don’t hesitate to assemble one of the Iron Hills Dwarf Warbands available now!
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game, the Iron Hills Dwarves offer an incredible combination of strength, resilience, and tactical flexibility. Prepare to conquer the mountains holds and vanquish all foes in your path with the indomitable Dáin Ironfoot and his steadfast warriors of the Iron Hills!
Stay tuned for more exciting updates and in-depth explorations of the factions in the Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game. Let the battle begin!
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