Level Up Your Army What To Get After Combat Patrol
So, you've taken the plunge into the thrilling world of tabletop wargaming and successfully commanded your Combat Patrol! You've tasted victory (and maybe a few defeats), learned the core mechanics, and now you're itching for more. The burning question now is: what to get after Combat Patrol to level up your army? This is a crucial step in expanding your force, deepening your strategic options, and truly making your mark on the battlefield. This guide will explore the essential next steps in army expansion, focusing on key unit types, strategic considerations, and how to tailor your purchases to your specific faction and play style. We'll delve into the importance of HQ choices, the versatility of troops, the devastating power of elites and heavy support, and the crucial role of fast attack options. By understanding these elements and carefully planning your acquisitions, you'll be well on your way to building a formidable and personalized army. Remember, the journey of army building is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time, research your options, and most importantly, have fun!
Understanding Your Army's Needs: A Strategic Overview
Before diving headfirst into purchasing new miniatures, it’s essential to understand your army’s needs. This involves a thorough assessment of your current Combat Patrol, identifying its strengths and weaknesses, and envisioning the direction you want to take your army in. Start by analyzing your existing units. What roles do they fulfill? Are you heavily reliant on infantry, or do you have a good mix of unit types? What are their strengths and weaknesses in terms of firepower, resilience, and mobility? For instance, if your Combat Patrol is primarily composed of close-combat units, you might consider adding some ranged firepower to provide tactical flexibility. Conversely, if you’re already strong in shooting, you might want to bolster your melee capabilities to effectively engage enemy units in close quarters. This initial assessment will lay the groundwork for making informed decisions about future purchases. Think about how your current units interact with each other. Do they synergize well, or are there gaps in your army's composition? Perhaps you lack the ability to effectively deal with heavily armored targets, or you struggle to control the battlefield and capture objectives. Identifying these shortcomings will help you prioritize units that can fill those gaps and enhance your army's overall effectiveness. For example, if you find yourself consistently struggling against heavily armored opponents, investing in units with high-strength weapons or dedicated anti-tank weaponry could be a game-changer. Similarly, if you're having trouble capturing and holding objectives, adding more durable units or units with special rules that aid in objective control can be invaluable. Ultimately, understanding your army's needs is about recognizing its current limitations and proactively addressing them. It's about building a force that is well-rounded, adaptable, and capable of tackling a variety of challenges on the battlefield. This strategic approach will not only improve your chances of success but also make the army-building process more enjoyable and rewarding.
HQ Units: The Backbone of Your Army
The HQ units are the backbone of your army, providing leadership, strategic buffs, and often possessing significant combat capabilities themselves. Choosing the right HQ is a pivotal decision that can shape the entire direction of your army. HQ units typically come in two main flavors: Characters and Command Squads. Characters are individual heroes or leaders with unique abilities and wargear options, while Command Squads are small units that provide additional support and leadership bonuses to nearby units. When selecting an HQ, consider its synergy with your army's overall strategy and play style. A character with abilities that buff specific unit types, such as infantry or vehicles, can significantly enhance their effectiveness. Similarly, an HQ unit with strong psychic powers can provide crucial battlefield control and devastating offensive options. Don't underestimate the importance of an HQ's durability and survivability. A dead HQ not only removes a valuable unit from the battlefield but can also cripple your army's morale and strategic capabilities. Consider HQ units with high toughness, armor saves, or invulnerable saves, as well as those with abilities that allow them to withstand enemy fire or heal wounds. In addition to their direct battlefield presence, HQ units often provide valuable command benefits, such as allowing you to re-roll dice, issue orders, or control specific aspects of the game. These abilities can be crucial for mitigating bad luck, coordinating your forces, and seizing strategic advantages. Ultimately, the choice of HQ unit should be driven by your army's specific needs and your preferred play style. Do you need a powerful combatant to lead from the front lines, a cunning strategist to coordinate your forces from the rear, or a versatile leader who can excel in multiple roles? Carefully considering these factors will help you select an HQ that not only complements your army but also elevates it to new heights of strategic effectiveness.
Troops: The Core of Your Force
Troops are the core of your force, forming the backbone of your army and providing the necessary staying power to control objectives and weather enemy attacks. These units are typically less specialized than Elites or Heavy Support but are crucial for their versatility, durability, and ability to hold ground. When expanding your army beyond the Combat Patrol level, investing in additional troops is often a priority. More troops translate to greater battlefield presence, enhanced objective control, and increased resilience against attrition. Consider the different types of troop units available to your faction. Some factions excel with large squads of infantry, while others rely on more specialized units with unique abilities or wargear. Evaluate which troop types best complement your army's overall strategy and play style. For example, if you prefer a defensive style of play, durable troops with high armor saves or the ability to regenerate wounds may be ideal. Conversely, if you favor an aggressive, fast-moving army, troops with high movement speed or the ability to deep strike may be a better fit. Think about the synergy between your troop choices and your HQ unit's abilities. Some HQs provide buffs that specifically target troop units, making certain troop types particularly effective under their command. For instance, an HQ that allows troops to re-roll failed morale tests can significantly enhance the survivability of large infantry squads. In addition to their battlefield effectiveness, troops are also crucial for fulfilling the game's objective-based missions. Many scenarios require you to control specific points on the battlefield, and having a sufficient number of troops is essential for achieving this. Consider how your troop choices will allow you to effectively capture and hold objectives, whether through sheer numbers, resilience, or specialized abilities. Ultimately, the troop choices you make will define the core of your army. By carefully selecting troop units that complement your overall strategy, synergize with your HQ, and excel at objective control, you'll build a force that is both durable and effective.
Elites: The Specialized Powerhouses
Elites are the specialized powerhouses of your army, bringing unique skills, advanced wargear, and devastating combat capabilities to the battlefield. These units are often more expensive than troops but offer a significant return on investment in terms of firepower, durability, or specialized abilities. When expanding your army, carefully consider which Elite units will best fill the gaps in your existing force and enhance your overall strategy. Elites come in a wide variety of forms, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some Elites excel in close combat, wielding powerful melee weapons and devastating enemy units in close quarters. Others are formidable ranged combatants, equipped with heavy weapons or possessing special abilities that allow them to target specific enemies or deliver devastating volleys of fire. Still, others provide crucial support roles, such as battlefield medics, psychic support, or command and control units. When selecting Elite units, think about how they will complement your troops and HQ. Will they provide the extra firepower needed to break through enemy lines, the durability to hold key objectives, or the specialized skills to counter specific enemy threats? Consider how the abilities and wargear of different Elite units synergize with each other and with the rest of your army. For instance, an Elite unit with a strong invulnerable save can provide a durable anchor for your troops, while an Elite unit with the ability to deep strike can quickly respond to threats or seize strategic objectives. Don't overlook the psychological impact of Elite units on the battlefield. Their presence can often deter enemy attacks or force opponents to divert resources to counter them. A well-placed Elite unit can significantly disrupt enemy plans and create opportunities for your other units to exploit. Ultimately, the choice of Elite units will depend on your army's specific needs and your preferred play style. By carefully selecting Elites that fill key roles, provide specialized capabilities, and complement your overall strategy, you'll add a powerful and versatile dimension to your army.
Heavy Support: The Big Guns
Heavy Support units are the big guns of your army, providing overwhelming firepower, long-range artillery support, and the ability to deal with heavily armored targets. These units are often slow and ponderous, but their sheer destructive potential makes them invaluable assets on the battlefield. When expanding your army, consider adding Heavy Support units that can provide the necessary firepower to break through enemy defenses, eliminate key threats, and control the battlefield. Heavy Support units come in a variety of forms, including tanks, artillery pieces, heavy weapon teams, and specialized assault units. Each type of Heavy Support unit offers a unique combination of firepower, range, and durability. Tanks are heavily armored vehicles that can withstand significant enemy fire while delivering devastating firepower of their own. Artillery pieces can bombard enemy positions from long range, softening up targets before your other units move in for the kill. Heavy weapon teams provide a flexible source of firepower, capable of targeting a wide range of enemies. Specialized assault units combine heavy firepower with the ability to engage in close combat, making them ideal for clearing out entrenched enemies or assaulting fortified positions. When selecting Heavy Support units, consider the types of enemies you are likely to face. If you anticipate facing heavily armored opponents, such as tanks or fortifications, you'll need Heavy Support units equipped with high-strength, armor-piercing weapons. If you expect to fight against large infantry formations, Heavy Support units with area-of-effect weapons or rapid-firing cannons may be more effective. Think about how your Heavy Support units will work in conjunction with the rest of your army. Will they provide covering fire for your troops as they advance, eliminate enemy threats that your troops cannot handle, or act as a mobile fire base to support your army's operations? Consider how the positioning and deployment of your Heavy Support units will affect their effectiveness. Artillery pieces, for example, require a clear line of sight to their targets, while tanks need open ground to maneuver effectively. Ultimately, the choice of Heavy Support units will depend on your army's specific needs and your preferred play style. By carefully selecting Heavy Support units that provide the necessary firepower, range, and durability, you'll add a devastating dimension to your army.
Fast Attack: The Swift and Deadly
Fast Attack units are the swift and deadly elements of your army, providing rapid deployment, flanking maneuvers, and the ability to disrupt enemy plans. These units are often lightly armored but possess exceptional speed and agility, allowing them to quickly traverse the battlefield, engage vulnerable targets, and seize strategic objectives. When expanding your army, consider adding Fast Attack units that can provide the necessary mobility, flexibility, and disruptive capabilities to outmaneuver your opponents and control the tempo of the battle. Fast Attack units come in a variety of forms, including bikes, speeders, flyers, and specialized assault units. Bikes and speeders offer rapid ground movement, allowing them to quickly reach key objectives or flank enemy positions. Flyers provide aerial support, capable of striking enemy units from unexpected angles or providing reconnaissance information. Specialized assault units combine speed with close combat prowess, making them ideal for harassing enemy flanks or disrupting their formations. When selecting Fast Attack units, consider how they will complement your overall strategy and play style. If you prefer an aggressive, fast-moving army, Fast Attack units can be used to spearhead your attacks, disrupt enemy defenses, and seize objectives before the enemy can react. If you favor a more defensive style of play, Fast Attack units can be used to screen your flanks, intercept enemy reinforcements, or counterattack vulnerable targets. Think about how your Fast Attack units will work in conjunction with the rest of your army. Will they draw enemy fire away from your more vulnerable units, provide reconnaissance information to guide your attacks, or exploit gaps in the enemy's defenses? Consider how the terrain and battlefield layout will affect the effectiveness of your Fast Attack units. Bikes and speeders, for example, excel in open terrain, while flyers can bypass terrain obstacles altogether. Ultimately, the choice of Fast Attack units will depend on your army's specific needs and your preferred play style. By carefully selecting Fast Attack units that provide the necessary mobility, flexibility, and disruptive capabilities, you'll add a dynamic and unpredictable element to your army.
Tailoring Your Army: Faction-Specific Considerations
When deciding what to get after Combat Patrol, tailoring your army to your specific faction is paramount. Each faction in the game possesses a unique identity, characterized by its distinct units, rules, and play style. Understanding your faction's strengths and weaknesses is crucial for building a cohesive and effective force. Start by delving into your faction's lore and background. This will provide valuable insights into the faction's preferred tactics, unit specializations, and overall strategic approach. For example, some factions excel in close combat, relying on hordes of melee troops to overwhelm their opponents, while others favor ranged warfare, utilizing superior firepower and long-range weaponry to decimate the enemy from afar. Understanding these fundamental differences will help you make informed decisions about which units to prioritize. Explore your faction's unique unit options. Each faction has access to a diverse range of units, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and battlefield role. Some factions have powerful elite units that can dominate the battlefield, while others rely on large numbers of troops to wear down the enemy. Some factions have access to specialized vehicles or war machines, while others focus on infantry-based tactics. Familiarizing yourself with your faction's unit roster will allow you to identify the units that best complement your existing force and enhance your overall strategy. Pay close attention to your faction's special rules and abilities. These rules can significantly impact your army's effectiveness and play style. Some factions have special rules that enhance their resilience, while others have rules that boost their offensive capabilities. Some factions have access to unique psychic powers or stratagems that can provide a decisive edge on the battlefield. Understanding and utilizing your faction's special rules is essential for maximizing its potential. Consider your faction's unique play style and strategic approach. Some factions are designed to be aggressive and proactive, while others are more suited to a defensive or reactive style of play. Some factions excel at specific types of missions or scenarios, while others are more versatile and adaptable. Tailoring your army to your faction's preferred play style will ensure that you are playing to its strengths and maximizing your chances of success. Ultimately, building a successful army is about more than just collecting miniatures. It's about understanding your faction's identity, strengths, and weaknesses, and carefully selecting units that complement each other and enhance your overall strategy. By tailoring your army to your specific faction, you'll create a force that is not only effective but also a true reflection of your chosen faction's lore and play style.
Building for the Long Term: A Gradual Approach
Building for the long term and taking a gradual approach is key to creating a well-rounded and effective army. Resist the urge to rush out and buy every unit that catches your eye. Instead, focus on building a solid foundation and expanding your force in a strategic and sustainable manner. Start by setting realistic goals and priorities. What are your immediate objectives? Do you want to expand your army to a specific point size, or are you focusing on building a particular type of list? Establishing clear goals will help you stay focused and avoid impulsive purchases. Prioritize units that fill essential roles in your army. Identify the gaps in your existing force and focus on acquiring units that can address those weaknesses. For example, if you lack anti-tank firepower, prioritize Heavy Support units with high-strength weapons. If you need more mobility, consider adding Fast Attack units to your roster. Building a balanced and versatile force will allow you to adapt to a wider range of opponents and battlefield situations. Don't be afraid to experiment with different units and strategies. Tabletop wargaming is a game of experimentation and learning. Try out different unit combinations, wargear options, and tactical approaches to see what works best for you. Don't be discouraged by losses; every game is a learning opportunity. Take note of what worked well and what didn't, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Consider purchasing units in stages. Instead of buying entire boxes of miniatures at once, consider purchasing individual units or small squads to start. This will allow you to try out new units without committing to a large investment. It also gives you time to assemble, paint, and familiarize yourself with the unit's rules and abilities before adding more to your collection. Take advantage of discounts and deals. Miniature wargaming can be an expensive hobby, but there are ways to save money. Look for discounts at online retailers, attend local gaming events where miniatures are often sold at reduced prices, and consider purchasing used miniatures from other players. Building a strong army takes time, patience, and planning. By setting realistic goals, prioritizing essential units, experimenting with different strategies, and taking advantage of discounts, you can gradually build a force that is both effective and enjoyable to play. Remember, the journey of army building is just as rewarding as the battles you fight on the tabletop. Embrace the process, learn from your experiences, and enjoy the thrill of creating a unique and personalized force.
Conclusion: Leveling Up Your Army and Your Gameplay
In conclusion, leveling up your army after the Combat Patrol stage is an exciting and strategic endeavor. By carefully considering your army's needs, understanding the roles of different unit types, and tailoring your purchases to your specific faction and play style, you can build a formidable and personalized force. Remember to prioritize HQ units for leadership and strategic buffs, troops for battlefield presence and objective control, Elites for specialized firepower and capabilities, Heavy Support for overwhelming firepower, and Fast Attack for mobility and disruption. Tailor your army to your faction's strengths and play style, and build for the long term by taking a gradual approach and experimenting with different units and strategies. Ultimately, the goal is not just to build a powerful army but also to improve your gameplay and strategic thinking. Each new unit you add to your collection presents an opportunity to learn new tactics, experiment with different formations, and develop a deeper understanding of the game. Don't be afraid to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from your experiences. The more you play, the better you'll become at anticipating your opponent's moves, positioning your units effectively, and coordinating your attacks. Building and playing a tabletop wargaming army is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. By embracing the challenges, experimenting with different approaches, and always striving to learn more, you'll not only build a formidable army but also develop valuable strategic thinking skills that can be applied to all aspects of life. So, take the plunge, expand your force, and embark on the exciting journey of leveling up your army and your gameplay. The battlefield awaits!
