Alright, fellow Warhammer enthusiasts, buckle up because we’re diving deep into the spectral horrors of the Nighthaunt, one of the most chilling factions in the Mortal Realms! The Nighthaunt aren’t just any ghosts; these wraiths are the twisted remnants of the damned, serving the Undying King, Nagash, with a bitter hatred for the living. If you’ve ever faced them on the battlefield, you know their ethereal nature makes them almost impossible to take down with mere mortal weapons.
Lore and Background
The Nighthaunt are the spectral vanguard of Nagash, embodying the sins they committed in life. Nagash believes in fitting punishments for crimes, which is why these gheists are as terrifying as they are. The Necroquake, a cataclysmic event that unleashed death magic across the realms, saw these spirits rise in a massive wave, spreading fear and death. Led by Lady Olynder, the Mortarch of Grief, and her tactician consort, Kurdoss Valentian, the Nighthaunt have become a disciplined force, each procession led by commanders whose tactics are as varied as their haunted forms.
Unique Traits and Battle Formations
The Nighthaunt’s Ethereal trait is a game-changer, letting them ignore the deadliest of blows. They can Discorporate, dodging attacks that would obliterate lesser beings. When these phantoms charge, they unleash a Wave of Terror that paralyzes their foes. Their ghostly cavalry can Stun enemies, and their champions have a Petrifying presence that freezes even the bravest warriors in fear.
Battle formations like the Death Stalkers let them weave in and out of combat, while Vanishing Phantasms can transport whole units across the battlefield. The Hunters of the Accursed are particularly deadly against enemy Heroes, draining their souls with ruthless efficiency. If you’re into combining mobility with durability, clustering around a Black Coach in the Procession of Death formation is a solid strategy.
Magical Abilities and Leaders
Nighthaunt Wizards draw on the Lore of the Underworlds, casting spells like Spirit Drain to sap life from enemies or Shademist to shield allies. The Lore’s restriction to units with more than three models means it’s perfect for bolstering your spectral swarms rather than your elite units.
Lady Olynder and Reikenor the Grimhailer
Lady Olynder, the Mortarch of Grief, is a powerful warrior-mage. Her Horrifying Visage can slay heroes outright, and she can bring fallen Nighthaunt back to the battlefield with her No Rest for the Wicked ability. Reikenor the Grimhailer, another prominent leader, is a potent wizard who enhances his spells by snuffing out Corpse Candles, making him deadly in both melee and spellcasting.
Tactical Units
Dreadblade Harrows, now fielded in units rather than as individual heroes, can teleport across the battlefield and boost the control scores of nearby Nighthaunt with their Curse of Loyalty. Myrmourn Banshees are Spell-Eaters, consuming magical energy and dispersing arcane attacks that target them.
Spearhead Spotlight
In the new Spearhead game mode, the Nighthaunt Slasher Host floods the field with malevolent spirits. With their Wave of Terror Battle Trait, these spectres overwhelm enemies before they can even strike back. Key units like Chainrasps can return to the battlefield after death, ensuring your front lines stay packed and ready to charge again.
In summary, the Nighthaunt bring a unique mix of ethereal resilience, fear-inducing abilities, and powerful leaders to the battlefield. Their strategic flexibility and terrifying presence make them a formidable force in Warhammer Age of Sigmar. So, if you’re looking to command an army of the undead that can strike fear into the hearts of the living, the Nighthaunt are the faction for you!
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