Can You Shoot and Charge in Horus Heresy? A Deep Dive into the Age of Darkness
The question of whether you can shoot and charge in the Horus Heresy is a classic one, often debated among newcomers and veterans alike. The short answer is it depends on the weapon and specific circumstances. Unlike some iterations of Warhammer 40,000, Horus Heresy doesn’t universally prevent shooting and charging in the same turn. Certain weapon types and rules allow for this tactical flexibility, making positioning and weapon selection crucial.
Understanding the Interplay: Shooting and Charging in the Horus Heresy
Horus Heresy, also known as Warhammer 30,000, operates on a rule set that differs significantly from modern 40k. The core concept is centered around the Assault phase, which comprises the Charge Sub-Phase and the Fight Sub-Phase.
Key Differences from Warhammer 40,000
One of the biggest differences lies in the nuances of weapon profiles and the existence of rules like “Relentless”. Here’s the breakdown:
- Relentless: This rule, often found on vehicles and certain character abilities, allows a unit to shoot Heavy weapons and still charge in the same turn.
- Assault and Pistol Weapons: Units equipped with these weapon types can shoot and then subsequently charge. This is a standard tactic for closing the distance on enemy units after softening them up with ranged fire.
- Heavy Weapons: Typically, a unit firing Heavy weapons is unable to charge in the same turn, unless it possesses the Relentless special rule.
Tactical Implications
This system opens up a world of tactical options. A Space Marine squad with bolters and bolt pistols can unleash a volley of fire and then launch a charge, leveraging the pistols for a final devastating blow. Vehicles equipped with heavy bolters or multi-meltas and possessing the Relentless rule become mobile fire support platforms capable of engaging in close combat.
Specific Restrictions
It’s essential to note some limitations:
- Units that Run: Units that Advance (Run) cannot shoot or charge in the same turn. This choice represents sacrificing firepower for increased mobility.
- Weapon Type Matters: The weapon you fire significantly impacts your ability to charge. A plasma cannon will likely prevent you from charging, while a bolt pistol won’t.
In essence, understanding the interplay between weapon types, special rules, and the game’s phase structure is critical for effectively utilizing the shoot-and-charge tactic in Horus Heresy. This tactical depth can be a valuable tool for teaching strategy, planning, and decision-making within tabletop war games. The Games Learning Society provides resources to explore the educational potential of games.
Horus Heresy Shooting and Charging FAQs
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the shooting and charging mechanics in Horus Heresy:
1. What Happens If I Shoot at One Unit and Want to Charge a Different One?
In general, if a unit makes a shooting attack, it can only charge the unit it shot at. This restricts your ability to arbitrarily target one unit with shooting and then charge another. This focuses the combat and makes unit selection much more important for planning purposes.
2. How Does Relentless Affect Shooting and Charging?
The Relentless rule is crucial. It allows a unit to shoot Heavy weapons and still charge in the same turn. Without Relentless, firing a Heavy weapon typically prevents a charge.
3. Can I Fire Overwatch and Still Charge?
Overwatch is a reaction fired when an enemy unit declares a charge against your unit. Firing Overwatch does not prevent you from charging in your subsequent turn, provided you meet the usual criteria.
4. What Weapon Types Allow Me to Shoot and Charge?
Pistol and Assault weapons are the primary weapon types that allow you to shoot and then charge. The Relentless rule allows you to shoot heavy weapons and then charge.
5. What Happens If My Unit is Pinned? Can I Still Charge?
A Pinned unit cannot move or charge in the following turn. Being Pinned effectively halts your offensive capabilities.
6. Can I Split Fire in Horus Heresy?
Generally, you cannot “split fire” at different targets. A unit must direct all of its shooting attacks at a single target unit.
7. How Does Terrain Affect Charging After Shooting?
Terrain can significantly impact your ability to charge. Impassable terrain, difficult terrain, and other environmental factors can hinder or completely prevent a charge, even after successfully shooting.
8. What is the Maximum Charge Range?
The maximum Charge Range is determined by rolling two dice and adding the result in inches to the unit’s movement allowance.
9. What Happens if I Fail My Charge Roll?
If you fail your charge roll, your unit remains stationary. If there is sufficient distance between you and the intended target, the charging unit will be stranded out in the open and vulnerable in the next turn.
10. What is the Instant Death Rule and How Does It Affect Charges?
The Instant Death rule states that if the Strength of an attack is at least double the Toughness of the target, an unsaved wound results in the target being immediately removed as a casualty. It primarily affects the Fight phase, making high-Strength charging units incredibly dangerous.
11. Can I Use 30k Models in 40k and Vice Versa?
Yes, you can often use Horus Heresy (30k) models in Warhammer 40k, but their rules and stats will be based on the 40k rulebook. Similarly, 40k models can be used in 30k with the appropriate 30k rules.
12. How Do Characters Affect Charging Units?
Characters in Horus Heresy provide various buffs and abilities to the units they are attached to, impacting their effectiveness in both shooting and charging. These characters are also more difficult to target as they are protected within the unit.
13. What Does Being “Locked in Combat” Mean?
Units Locked in Combat are within Engagement Range of enemy units and cannot shoot. They are primarily engaged in the Fight phase and must resolve close combat attacks.
14. How Does Morale Affect Charging?
If a unit fails a Morale check, they might fall back, potentially disrupting planned charges and leaving them vulnerable to enemy fire.
15. Can I Deny a Charge in Horus Heresy?
While there is no direct “deny the charge” mechanic, certain abilities and psychic powers might hinder or disrupt enemy charges, making them less effective or even preventing them entirely. For those interested in exploring the world of games and learning, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.