Prepare to witness the emergence of the Knight Lancer, a formidable addition to the Age of Darkness and the 41st Millennium’s battlefields. This groundbreaking plastic kit marks the debut of the Cerastus-class Knight in plastic form, offering an array of dynamic posing and customization options. But what exactly does this behemoth bring to the realm of Warhammer 40,000 gameplay? Let’s delve into its capabilities.
The rules governing the Knight Lancer’s prowess can be found within the Imperial Armour Index Cards, downloadable for free by Imperial and Chaos players. This exceptional walker boasts two datasheets: the Cerastus Knight Lancer for Imperial Knights and the Chaos Cerastus Knight Lancer for Chaos Knights. Although distinct in allegiance, both versions share core characteristics and weapon attributes that contribute to their ferocious close-combat potential.
Speed and Durability
Exhibiting a Movement of 14″, the Knight Lancer stands out for its exceptional speed, surpassing the Imperial Knight Gallant and Chaos Knight Rampager in this regard. Beyond its swiftness, its durability is noteworthy. The Lancer’s ion gauntlet shield confers an additional pip of invulnerable save, operational in both ranged and melee combat. This unique attribute enables it to parry high-AP attacks with unwavering resilience.
The Power of Melee Impact
While the Gallant and the Rampager offer varied strengths, the Knight Lancer’s striking feature lies in its potent melee potential. With a Strength of 20 and a +1 to Wound on the charge due to the [LANCE] rule, even Titans can be wounded on a 2+. The Lancer’s spear-like appendage becomes a formidable tool for taking down colossal adversaries.
Devastating Core Stratagem
A noteworthy aspect of the Knight Lancer’s arsenal is the Tank Shock Core Stratagem. This maneuver, available for free, empowers the Lancer to inflict six mortal wounds on each charge, regardless of its prior usage on other charging Knights. This feature significantly contributes to its offensive prowess.
Diverse Abilities
Where the Imperial and Chaos datasheets diverge is in their unique abilities. The Imperial Knight Lancer boasts the Bondsman ability, extending the power of Advance and charge to a single ARMIGER-class ally within 12″. Conversely, the Chaos Knight Lancer’s Dark Fervour generates a 6″ aura granting nearby WAR DOGS the [ASSAULT] ability on their guns, enabling them to Advance and shoot. This synergistic advantage proves potent, particularly with [MELTA] weapons.
A Multifaceted Asset
Beyond its faction allegiance, the Knight Lancer has utility across various armies. Its versatility extends to Freeblades for IMPERIUM armies or Dreadblades for CHAOS forces. While losing faction abilities, the Knight Lancer remains a commanding force in any army.
Dominance on the Battlefield
The Knight Lancer’s speed, durability, and melee prowess render it a strategic asset. Its 25 Wounds and 4+ invulnerable save make it a challenging target, forcing opponents to decide between dealing with the Knight or confronting the rest of your forces. Its Objective Control rating of 10 further enhances its utility.
Diverse Faction Synergies
The Knight Lancer seamlessly aligns with various factions. For the Adeptus Mechanicus, it complements Questor Mechanicus Knight Houses. Within Space Marines, Custodes, and Grey Knights armies, it excels against imposing targets. Chaos factions benefit from its inclusion, especially Death Guard and Thousand Sons, enhancing their tactical diversity.
A Formidable Metal Warrior
In essence, the Knight Lancer emerges as a robust and versatile addition to Warhammer 40,000 gameplay. Its capabilities span speed, strength, and tactical flexibility, ensuring a commanding presence on the battlefield. As this towering war machine enters the fray, it will undoubtedly reshape the dynamics of strategic engagements.
Join the Battle
Anticipate the forthcoming battles featuring the Knight Lancer and its unparalleled capabilities. Whether embraced by established factions or introduced as a solo powerhouse, its influence promises to be substantial. Stay tuned for further insights on employing the Knight Lancer in the Age of Darkness, as we provide an expert guide to its utilization in Warhammer: The Horus Heresy.
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