Barbarian factions rely on numbers, ferocious charges, and the unique "Horde" mechanic. When a horde faction loses its last settlement, its population transforms into massive armies that travel together to sack or settle new lands. The Germanic Tribes (Franks, Alemanni, Saxons)
Understanding how units behave differently in BI is vital for victory.
: The elite cavalry of the late Empire, these heavy riders are designed to counter the burgeoning threat of barbarian horsemen. The Terror of the Steppes Nomadic factions like the
The first wave died on the spear points. The second wave died on the swords. The third wave climbed over the bodies of the first two and dragged Romans down by sheer weight. Varro lost his shield. He lost his helmet. He lost his sword. He picked up a fallen axe and kept fighting. rome total war barbarian invasion units
Late-period Roman armies are split between cheap frontier guards and expensive, elite mobile field armies. Comitatenses
Reliable defensive infantry used to protect vulnerable missile assets. The Goths and Vandals
Signature infantry armed with throwing axes. Their missile attack bypasses enemy armor and shatters shield defense values before melee engagement. Barbarian factions rely on numbers, ferocious charges, and
Expert seafaring infantry that can swim across rivers, providing incredible tactical flexibility during regional bridge battles. The Nomadic Hordes: Masters of the Steppe
“They say the Huns are three days away,” whispered a young warrior, his breath fogging.
Best cataphracts in the game and powerful archers. Key Unit: Sughdian Warriors and War Elephants. 3. Western & Eastern Roman Empires : The elite cavalry of the late Empire,
Highly mobile missile cavalry. They utilize Circle Shooting to deplete enemy ranks without taking damage.
Barbarian Invasion shifts emphasis from classical legion tactics to fast, aggressive, and often less-armored forces with high offensive capability or extreme mobility. Build armies around your faction’s strengths: Germanic tribes around heavy melee shock and numbers; Huns around mounted archery and maneuver. Counter disciplined Roman/Byzantine formations with flank attacks, missile harassment, and targeted charges by elite units.
A specialized variant of heavy infantry. They carry an extensive supply of armor-piercing darts, allowing them to decimate enemy formations before engaging in melee.
Which are you currently playing or planning to start? Do you prefer infantry-heavy or cavalry-heavy playstyles? Share public link