The High Elves used to suck. Now that the new army book came out, I believe they are easily one of the top three armies out there no matter who plays them. Being an elf, the basic troop has higher initiative, weapon skill, and leadership, but of course this costs a bit more too than any mere human. The major downfall I find with any elven army is their strength and toughness. With 3's for every single unit but the White Lions, it is rather hard to wound someone, and rather easy to wound an elf. Aside from that, I see the elves as being a great race to play. I used to play the High Elves so I know a bit about their army. The White Lions are a kick-ass unit, anyone must agree to that. They have Axes which do a number on anyone. Aside from giving them strength 6, they can pick between 3 special attacks. One which makes all enemy models lose 1 attack, one that makes them -1 to hit, and another which simply does D3 wounds. They have armour which is a 3+ for shooting and 4+ for hand to hand. Their only disadvantage is the elven weakness for toughness and the fact that their axes are double handed which means striking last. This unit can even be a bodyguard for the general which means unmodified Ld 10 for break tests. They kick ass. Secondly is the Swordmasters of Hoeth. These guys really rock. They have the ability to wield double handed weapons and not strike last. This is awesome, giving them strength 5 and can strike like a normal hand weapon. In addition they are -1 to hit with missile weapons and have a decent save. The High Elf cavalry isn't too strong. They only have a strength of 3, but they have the unique ability of carrying a magic banner at half price and not paying extra for standard bearer, this unit of course is the Dragon Princes of Caledor. At 43 points, they are fairly expensive and IMO, they can only win on combat resolution against other knights. High Elf spearmen have the awesome ability to attack in 2 ranks, and defend in 3 ranks. While the Archers can fire in 2 ranks. This "Citizen Levy" really is an awesome ability that no other race has, and gives High Elves a great edge. Also, the new book lets them have retake Ld tests vs. Dark Elves and replaces all heavy armour with ithlmar armour which does not have a movement penalty for wearing it. The High Elves have some really awesome special characters that you should check out, especially the Everqueen. Oh and don't ever forget about the Repeating Bolt Throwers!

The High Elves are primarily a defensive army, but can be played as offensive. If you enjoy being an elf, and like having lots of archers and infantry units, then High Elves is a great army that can hold their own vs. any army.

High Elf links:

Send me some, and I'll put them up.

macleod2@ix.netcom.com

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