Hoplite

Hoplites are well-armoured soldiers who fight with a spear and large round shield. Originating in the city-states of ancient Greece, their equipment and tactics were quickly adopted by the native tribes of the Apennine peninsula. Better equipped and trained than regular hoplites, Heavy hoplites wear formidable bronze armour and carry their namesake hoplon shield. While slow to move on the battlefield, once in position a heavy hoplite battleline can withstand all but the strongest enemy charge.

Large shields and heavy armour provide significant protection against charges and ranged attacks. Slow moving and susceptible to flanking. Hoplites lose much of their defensive advantages if their formation breaks. Most effective in wide battlelines where their flanks are protected by terrain or supporting units. Hoplites are can protect ranged troops from cavalry charges or hold an enemy in place while lighter troops move around to flank.

This stance class is used by Hoplites and Phalangites.