Mastering Battalions Tomb Kings And Bretonnia Army Guide

Introduction

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Warhammer Fantasy Battles, focusing on two iconic factions: the Tomb Kings and Bretonnia. These armies, steeped in lore and rich with strategic potential, offer unique challenges and rewards for players. One of the most exciting aspects of building a Warhammer army is the use of battalions – pre-set formations of units that grant special abilities and bonuses. These battalions not only add a layer of tactical depth but also reflect the historical and thematic elements of the armies. So, let’s explore some awesome battalion options for both the Tomb Kings and Bretonnia, ensuring your skeletal legions and noble knights dominate the battlefield. We'll break down the composition of each battalion, discuss their strengths and weaknesses, and give you some pro tips on how to use them effectively in your games. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the Old World, this guide will help you construct powerful and thematic armies ready to crush your foes. Understanding the nuances of battalion construction can significantly enhance your gameplay, allowing you to create synergistic forces that complement each other and maximize your strategic potential. Let's get started and bring your Tomb Kings and Bretonnian armies to life!

What are Battalions?

First off, let's clarify what we mean by "battalions." In Warhammer Fantasy Battles, battalions are specific groupings of units that, when fielded together, provide additional benefits and special rules. Think of them as mini-armies within your larger army, each with its own internal synergy and tactical role. These formations often reflect the way armies were historically organized or are thematically appropriate for the faction. For instance, a Bretonnian Lance formation might include a core of Knights supported by Men-at-Arms, mirroring the medieval societal structure. Similarly, a Tomb Kings battalion could consist of skeletal warriors and archers, commanded by a Liche Priest, echoing the ancient armies of Nehekhara. The beauty of battalions lies in the strategic advantage they offer. By adhering to the battalion’s composition requirements, you unlock unique abilities that can turn the tide of battle. These might include improved morale, enhanced combat effectiveness, or special movement capabilities. Moreover, battalions encourage thematic army building, allowing you to create a force that not only performs well on the tabletop but also tells a story. Imagine a Bretonnian Grail Knight battalion, resplendent in their armor, charging forth to defend the honor of their Lady, or a Tomb King's Royal Host, an inexorable tide of bone and bronze, marching to reclaim their ancient kingdom. Battalions are not just about power; they're about narrative and immersion. They allow you to embody the spirit of your chosen faction, bringing the rich lore of Warhammer Fantasy Battles to your tabletop battles. So, as we delve into the specific battalions for the Tomb Kings and Bretonnia, keep in mind the strategic and thematic possibilities they offer. Each battalion is a piece of a larger puzzle, a way to customize your army and make it truly your own.

Tomb Kings Battalions

When you think of the Tomb Kings, picture legions of undead warriors, animated by ancient magic and marching in perfect, silent ranks. Their battalions reflect this disciplined, yet terrifying, nature. Let's check out some standout options for fielding a Tomb Kings army. The Tomb Kings, with their legions of undead warriors, are a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Their battalions are designed to maximize their strengths: unwavering discipline, powerful magic, and relentless advance. To truly master the Tomb Kings, understanding their battalion options is crucial. Each battalion offers a unique tactical advantage, allowing you to tailor your army to your preferred playstyle. Whether you favor overwhelming your opponents with sheer numbers, unleashing devastating magical attacks, or employing cunning tactical maneuvers, there's a Tomb Kings battalion to suit your needs. In this section, we'll explore some of the most effective and thematic battalions for the Tomb Kings, delving into their composition, strengths, weaknesses, and optimal usage. We'll also discuss how these battalions fit into the broader strategy of a Tomb Kings army, ensuring you can build a force that is both powerful and cohesive. So, prepare to raise your banners, summon your legions, and march forth in the name of the ancient kings!

The Royal Host

The Royal Host battalion is the backbone of any Tomb Kings army. It embodies the core strength of the faction: a steady, relentless advance of skeletal warriors. This battalion typically includes a core of Skeleton Warriors, supported by Tomb Guard and a Tomb King or Prince as the leader. Imagine the scene: ranks of Skeleton Warriors, shields locked tight, advancing inexorably across the battlefield, their hollow eyes fixed on the enemy. Behind them march the elite Tomb Guard, clad in ancient armor, their weapons gleaming in the desert sun. Leading the charge is the Tomb King or Prince, a figure of immense power and authority, whose presence bolsters the resolve of his undead legion. The Royal Host is a symbol of the Tomb Kings' unwavering discipline and martial prowess. Its strengths lie in its resilience and staying power. Skeleton Warriors, while individually weak, are incredibly difficult to break due to their Undead special rule. They can absorb a tremendous amount of punishment, holding the line while your more powerful units maneuver into position. Tomb Guard, with their superior armor and combat skills, provide the striking power needed to break enemy formations. The Tomb King or Prince, with their leadership abilities and combat prowess, acts as the linchpin of the battalion, ensuring it fights at peak efficiency. However, the Royal Host is not without its weaknesses. It lacks mobility and can be vulnerable to fast-moving enemies or flanking attacks. It also relies heavily on its resilience, which can be negated by certain enemy units or spells. To use the Royal Host effectively, you need to maximize its strengths and mitigate its weaknesses. This means deploying it in a way that allows it to absorb the enemy's initial assault while protecting its flanks. It also means providing it with support from other units, such as archers or chariots, to deal with threats it cannot handle on its own. The Royal Host is more than just a collection of units; it's a symbol of the Tomb Kings' indomitable will. By mastering its use, you can bring the might of the ancient dynasties to bear on your foes.

The Sepulchral Stalkers Hunting Pack

For a more aggressive and terrifying option, consider the Sepulchral Stalkers Hunting Pack. This battalion is all about speed and ferocity. It’s comprised of Sepulchral Stalkers, those snake-bodied constructs that slither across the sands, along with a Necrotect to guide them. Picture this: a whirlwind of bone and serpentine bodies erupting from the dunes, striking with blinding speed and terrifying precision. The Sepulchral Stalkers Hunting Pack is a force of nature, a living sandstorm unleashed upon the enemy. The Sepulchral Stalkers, with their unique movement capabilities and deadly attacks, are the stars of this battalion. They can move quickly across the battlefield, ignoring terrain that would slow down other units. Their poisonous attacks can wither even the toughest opponents, and their serpentine bodies make them difficult to pin down in combat. The Necrotect, with his ability to repair and enhance constructs, keeps the Stalkers fighting at peak efficiency. He also provides a crucial tactical role, guiding the Stalkers to the most vulnerable points in the enemy line. The strengths of the Hunting Pack lie in its speed, maneuverability, and offensive power. It can outflank enemy formations, strike at weak points, and generally cause havoc in the enemy's rear lines. It's perfect for disrupting enemy plans, harassing key units, and generally keeping your opponent on their toes. However, the Hunting Pack is not as resilient as other Tomb Kings battalions. Sepulchral Stalkers, while deadly, are relatively fragile and can be vulnerable to concentrated fire or determined melee attacks. The Necrotect, while providing valuable support, is also a tempting target for enemy assassins or ranged attacks. To use the Hunting Pack effectively, you need to play to its strengths while protecting its weaknesses. This means using its speed and maneuverability to avoid prolonged engagements with heavily armored units. It also means keeping the Necrotect safe, either by screening him with other units or by using terrain to your advantage. The Sepulchral Stalkers Hunting Pack is a scalpel in the Tomb Kings' arsenal, a precision instrument that can deliver devastating blows when used correctly. By mastering its use, you can add a new dimension to your Tomb Kings army, catching your opponents off guard and securing victory through speed and cunning.

The Liche Priest Conclave

Magic is a cornerstone of the Tomb Kings, and the Liche Priest Conclave battalion harnesses this power. This battalion features multiple Liche Priests, the spellcasters of the Tomb Kings, often accompanied by a supporting unit like Skeleton Archers or Tomb Guard to protect them. Imagine a cadre of Liche Priests, their eyes glowing with arcane power, chanting ancient incantations that unleash devastating spells upon the enemy. The Liche Priest Conclave is a magical powerhouse, capable of controlling the battlefield with its arcane might. The Liche Priests, with their mastery of the Lore of Nehekhara, are the heart of this battalion. They can unleash a variety of spells, from damaging fireballs and lightning bolts to debilitating curses and protective wards. Their magical abilities can turn the tide of battle, blasting enemy formations, hindering their movement, and bolstering the resilience of your own units. The supporting unit, whether it's Skeleton Archers or Tomb Guard, provides a crucial screen for the Priests, protecting them from enemy attacks and allowing them to focus on their spellcasting. The strengths of the Conclave lie in its magical firepower and battlefield control. It can cripple enemy units with spells, disrupt their formations, and generally dictate the flow of battle. It's perfect for dealing with heavily armored units, supporting your melee troops, and controlling key terrain features. However, the Conclave is not without its weaknesses. Liche Priests, while powerful spellcasters, are relatively fragile and can be vulnerable to enemy magic or determined assaults. The supporting unit, while providing protection, can be overwhelmed by a concentrated attack. To use the Conclave effectively, you need to maximize its strengths while minimizing its weaknesses. This means positioning the Priests carefully, protecting them from enemy attacks, and using their spells to best effect. It also means supporting the Conclave with other units, such as chariots or cavalry, to deal with threats it cannot handle on its own. The Liche Priest Conclave is the magical heart of the Tomb Kings army, a source of immense power and strategic flexibility. By mastering its use, you can unlock the full potential of the Lore of Nehekhara, turning the battlefield into a graveyard for your enemies.

Bretonnia Battalions

Now, let's gallop into the realm of Bretonnia, the land of noble knights and chivalrous ideals. Bretonnian battalions are all about heavy cavalry charges, supported by steadfast infantry and blessed by the Lady of the Lake. These battalions emphasize the strengths of Bretonnia: powerful cavalry, divine blessings, and the unwavering faith of its warriors. To truly lead a Bretonnian army to victory, understanding their battalion options is essential. Each battalion offers a unique blend of tactical capabilities, reflecting the diverse aspects of Bretonnian society and warfare. Whether you prefer to crush your enemies with thunderous cavalry charges, hold the line with disciplined infantry, or unleash the power of divine blessings, there's a Bretonnian battalion to suit your style. In this section, we'll explore some of the most iconic and effective battalions for Bretonnia, delving into their composition, strengths, weaknesses, and optimal usage. We'll also discuss how these battalions synergize with each other and the broader Bretonnian army, ensuring you can build a force that embodies the chivalrous spirit and martial prowess of Bretonnia. So, don your armor, mount your steed, and prepare to ride for glory in the name of the Lady!

The Lance Formation

The Lance Formation is the quintessential Bretonnian battalion, embodying the shock and awe of a massed cavalry charge. This battalion typically includes a core of Knights of the Realm, supported by Knights Errant or Grail Knights, and led by a Paladin or Lord. Picture the scene: a wave of armored knights, lances lowered, thundering across the battlefield, the ground trembling beneath their hooves. The Lance Formation is the embodiment of Bretonnian chivalry and martial might, a force capable of shattering enemy lines and routing entire armies. The Knights of the Realm, the backbone of the battalion, provide the core of the charge. Their heavy armor and powerful steeds make them a formidable force in melee combat. Knights Errant, with their youthful enthusiasm and reckless courage, add an element of unpredictability to the charge. Grail Knights, blessed by the Lady of the Lake, are the elite of the elite, their presence inspiring awe and terror in the hearts of their foes. The Paladin or Lord, with their leadership skills and martial prowess, guides the charge and ensures it hits with maximum impact. The strengths of the Lance Formation lie in its speed, power, and psychological impact. It can smash through enemy formations, break their morale, and generally dominate the battlefield. It's perfect for delivering decisive blows, exploiting weaknesses in the enemy line, and securing key objectives. However, the Lance Formation is not without its vulnerabilities. It can be vulnerable to terrain, such as forests or rough ground, which can disrupt its charge. It also requires careful positioning and timing to be effective. A poorly executed charge can leave the knights exposed and vulnerable to counterattack. To use the Lance Formation effectively, you need to maximize its strengths while mitigating its weaknesses. This means choosing your targets carefully, positioning your knights for maximum impact, and providing support from other units, such as archers or infantry. The Lance Formation is more than just a collection of knights; it's a symbol of Bretonnian chivalry and martial excellence. By mastering its use, you can bring the thunder of the charge to bear on your enemies, securing victory through valor and skill.

The Peasant Levy

Bretonnia isn't all about knights; the Peasant Levy battalion highlights the important role of the common folk. This battalion consists primarily of Men-at-Arms, Peasant Bowmen, and perhaps a Trebuchet for some ranged punch. Imagine a line of stout Men-at-Arms, shields locked tight, forming a bulwark against the enemy advance. Behind them, Peasant Bowmen loose volleys of arrows, raining death upon the foe. A Trebuchet, manned by skilled engineers, hurls massive stones, smashing fortifications and shattering enemy formations. The Peasant Levy is the heart of Bretonnian defense, a testament to the resilience and determination of the common folk. The Men-at-Arms, the backbone of the battalion, provide a solid defensive line. Their shields and spears can withstand a surprising amount of punishment, holding the line while your knights maneuver into position. Peasant Bowmen, while not as skilled as their noble counterparts, can still deliver a significant amount of ranged fire, softening up the enemy before the main engagement. The Trebuchet, with its long range and devastating firepower, can cripple enemy artillery, destroy fortifications, and generally disrupt their plans. The strengths of the Peasant Levy lie in its resilience, defensive capabilities, and ranged firepower. It can hold key terrain features, protect your flanks, and provide a solid base of operations for your knights. It's perfect for weathering enemy assaults, controlling the flow of battle, and supporting your more mobile units. However, the Peasant Levy is not as mobile or as powerful in melee combat as other Bretonnian battalions. Men-at-Arms, while resilient, are not as well-equipped or as skilled as knights. Peasant Bowmen, while capable of delivering ranged fire, are vulnerable in close combat. The Trebuchet, while powerful, is slow to move and reload. To use the Peasant Levy effectively, you need to maximize its strengths while mitigating its weaknesses. This means deploying it in a defensive position, using terrain to your advantage, and providing support from other units, such as knights or magic users. The Peasant Levy is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Bretonnian people, a reminder that even the lowliest peasant can play a vital role in the defense of the realm. By mastering its use, you can build a solid foundation for your Bretonnian army, ensuring it can withstand any challenge.

The Grail Guardians

For the ultimate in Bretonnian chivalry, there's the Grail Guardians battalion. This elite formation is composed of Grail Knights, perhaps with a supporting unit of Battle Pilgrims or a Grail Reliquae. Picture the scene: a shining host of Grail Knights, clad in gleaming armor, their faces radiating divine grace, riding forth to defend the sacred relics of the Lady. Battle Pilgrims, their faces alight with religious fervor, march alongside them, their chants filling the air with power. A Grail Reliquae, carried by devout monks, radiates a palpable aura of divine protection, inspiring the knights to greater feats of valor. The Grail Guardians are the embodiment of Bretonnian piety and martial excellence, a force capable of crushing any foe and inspiring awe in the hearts of their allies. The Grail Knights, the heart of the battalion, are the elite of Bretonnian chivalry, blessed by the Lady of the Lake and imbued with her divine power. Their skill in combat is unmatched, their armor impervious to all but the most powerful attacks, and their faith unwavering. Battle Pilgrims, their religious fervor driving them onward, provide a resilient and inspiring supporting force. Their chants and prayers bolster the courage of the knights, and their presence adds a spiritual dimension to the battalion. The Grail Reliquae, a sacred relic of the Lady, radiates a palpable aura of divine protection, enhancing the resilience of the knights and inspiring them to greater feats of valor. The strengths of the Grail Guardians lie in their unparalleled combat prowess, divine protection, and inspirational presence. They can crush any enemy in melee combat, withstand withering fire, and inspire their allies to greater heights. They're perfect for spearheading attacks, defending key objectives, and turning the tide of battle. However, the Grail Guardians are not without their weaknesses. They are relatively few in number, making them vulnerable to being overwhelmed by larger formations. They also require careful positioning and support to maximize their effectiveness. To use the Grail Guardians effectively, you need to maximize their strengths while mitigating their weaknesses. This means deploying them in a way that allows them to engage the enemy on their own terms, providing them with support from other units, and protecting them from being surrounded or outflanked. The Grail Guardians are the ultimate expression of Bretonnian chivalry, a symbol of the faith and martial prowess that define the kingdom. By mastering their use, you can bring the power of the Lady to bear on your enemies, securing victory through faith, valor, and skill.

Conclusion

Alright, guys, we've journeyed through the dusty tombs of the Tomb Kings and the chivalrous fields of Bretonnia, exploring some killer battalion options for each. Whether you prefer the undead legions or the noble knights, understanding these formations can seriously up your game. Building effective battalions is all about understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen faction and tailoring your formations to exploit enemy vulnerabilities. It's also about creating a thematic army that reflects the lore and spirit of your chosen faction. By carefully selecting your battalions and deploying them strategically, you can create a force that is both powerful and fun to play. Remember, the key to success in Warhammer Fantasy Battles is not just about fielding powerful units; it's about creating a cohesive and synergistic army that can work together to achieve your objectives. Battalions are a crucial tool in this process, allowing you to create specialized formations that can excel in specific roles. Whether you're crushing your enemies with the relentless advance of the Tomb Kings or shattering their lines with the thunderous charge of Bretonnian knights, battalions can help you achieve victory. So, take what you've learned here, experiment with different combinations, and develop your own unique playstyle. The Old World awaits, and the fate of empires hangs in the balance. It's time to take command, raise your banners, and march to war! Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the hobby, the world of Warhammer Fantasy Battles offers endless possibilities for strategic gameplay and narrative storytelling. The Tomb Kings and Bretonnia, with their rich lore and diverse unit options, are just two of the many factions waiting to be explored. So, grab your rulebook, assemble your miniatures, and prepare to immerse yourself in the epic conflicts of the Old World. The thrill of victory, the sting of defeat, and the camaraderie of the gaming table await. So, what are you waiting for? Let's roll some dice and forge our legends in the fires of war!