Thessalian Cavalry

Summary
Thessalian Cavalry are a very powerful cavalry brigade introduced by the Eagle King DLC. They are available as a starting unit for certain Greek factions in the Invasion Sandbox, and can sometimes make an appearance as a mercenary brigade in all game modes.

"The hilly region of Greece known as Thessaly is famed for its masterful cavalry, who sometimes travel the Mediterranean offering their services to foreign kings."

- In-game Description

History
The Greeks originally barely used any cavalry at all, but the Peloponnesian Wars of the late 5th Century BC saw an increase in the usage of cavalry for skirmishing, reconnaissance and pursuit. The Thessalians and Macedonians were known for having strong and versatile melee cavalry, but the same was not true for other Greeks.

Tactics
Thessalian Cavalry have an extremely high charge strength, much higher than other horsemen and only exceeded by War Elephants. They also have the highest defenses of of any horse cavalry in the game, but their melee damage, while good, is less remarkable and significantly lower than that of Etruscan cavalry brigades. Etruscan Heavy Cavalry in particular is still more effective than Thessalian Cavalry in protracted melee engagements without room to charge, due to the former's much higher melee damage and only slightly lower defenses. Nonetheless, Thessalian Cavalry are one of the very best cavalry units in the game, especially if the player can make good use of their devastating charges.