In the realm of Cities of Sigmar, innovation is a potent weapon, and the Castelite formation stands as a testament to this fact. Pioneered by the esteemed Tahlia Vedra, known as the Lioness of the Parch, this revolutionary strategy has become the cornerstone of recent Dawnbringer Crusades, propelling Sigmarite convoys to new heights of tactical prowess.
Origins of the Castelite Formation
The genesis of the Castelite formation is rooted in the sulfuric Vitae Deltas of Aqshy, where a Sigmarite convoy faced a perilous assault by Kruleboyz. In this dire situation, Captain Vedra displayed her exceptional skills by fending off the initial wave, then ingeniously repurposing the expedition’s caravans and palisades into impromptu barricades. Dug in behind these makeshift defenses, the Crusade repelled successive onslaughts with a blend of fusil-cannons and spears.
Captain Vedra’s masterstroke was to orchestrate her forces to carry these barricades across the delta, incrementally advancing and fortifying as they thwarted the greenskins. This strategic dance continued for weeks, resulting in a novel approach to cross-country travel that earned the moniker “Castelite formation.”
The Marching Castle: Composition and Tactics
The core of the Castelite formation comprises Freeguild Fusiliers and Freeguild Steelhelms, acting as formidable walls with their robust pavises and reinforced shields. The formation integrates Fusil-Majors on Ogor Warhulks, serving as vigilant towers armed with sharp-eyed snipers. An Ironweld Great Cannon serves as the gatehouse, ready to advance and unleash Freeguild Cavaliers into the fray.
This one-drop Core Battalion is the linchpin of the new battletome’s armies, featuring the Slayer ability that grants units a free command like “Unleash Hell” or “All-out Attack” against assailants bold enough to charge this living fortress.
Challenges and Blessings of Mobility
While moving an entire castle has its challenges, the Castelite Formation adapts with grit. When stationary, the Ironweld Great Cannon delivers devastating blows, obliterating adversaries with Cannonballs or Armour-piercing Shells. During movement, the formation employs hastily loaded Grapeshot to maintain offensive pressure.
The Castelite Formation also benefits from Battlepriests who cleanse corruption with devotional prayers, bestowing a protective 6+ ward on CITIES OF SIGMAR HUMAN units through Azyrite hymns and Land Consecration.
Personalization and Potential
At the heart of the Castelite Formation are the Freeguild Steelhelms, versatile Battleline units brimming with character. With 15 interchangeable heads on their sprues and additional heads for the Champion, Banner Bearer, and Battle Priests, these troops can be crafted into distinct personalities, each deserving a name.
As the release of the Cities of Sigmar Army Set draws near, the Castelite formation beckons valiant commanders to embrace its strategic might. Don your helmet, grasp your pavise, and join the march towards victory. Keep an eye out for further coverage on Cities of Sigmar, and remember to mind the Gargoylians—they might have a bite to them.
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