As you already know, Age of Empires 2 is a complex game with many units that counter other units. We have already produced a Counter Guide to assist with generic units, their counters, and their strengths.
But every civilization also comes with its own Unique Units, special units accessible only to that civilization – so what counters them?
Well, to save you the time and effort of determining this yourself, we have made the below Unique Unit Counter Guide, which considers every civilization’s Unique Units’ strengths and weaknesses.
How to counter every unique unit in AoE2
Infantry
Jaguar Warrior / Elite Jaguar Warrior Aztecs Available from Castle Age
Melee infantry with bonus damage against other infantry.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Jaguar Warrior (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Eagle Warriors
- Other unique infantry
- Skirmishers
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Knight line
- Scorpions
Tip: Jaguar Warriors beat any infantry in melee, including Champions and Huskarls. They have low pierce armour, so archers and Hand Cannoneers beat them, and Knights win the melee fight.
Flemish Militia Burgundians Available from Imperial Age
Cheap infantry with bonus damage against cavalry. Unlocked by the Flemish Revolution technology, which also turns existing villagers into Flemish Militia.
Trained at: Town Center
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Camels
- Elephants
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Militia line
- Scorpions
Tip: Flemish Revolution trades the Burgundian economy for an army in one click, so it is usually a late-game or all-in move. Flemish Militia beat cavalry and lose to ranged units and heavier infantry.
Woad Raider / Elite Woad Raider Celts Available from Castle Age
Fast infantry with a strong melee attack. Moves almost as fast as light cavalry.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Woad Raider (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Siege
- Villagers (raiding)
- Buildings
Countered by
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Militia line
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: Woad Raiders are used to raid and to run down archers and siege. Low armour means Knights and Champions beat them in a straight fight.
Jomsviking / Elite Jomsviking Danes Available from Castle Age
Cheap infantry (mostly food) with large bonus damage against cavalry, camels and elephants. Throws torches at buildings and ships.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Jomsviking (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Camels
- Elephants
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Militia line
- Scorpions
Tip: Jomsvikings do the Halberdier’s job with more armour and bonus damage against buildings. They cost 15 gold, so they are cheap to replace. Ranged units and Champions beat them.
Urumi Swordsman / Elite Urumi Swordsman Dravidians Available from Castle Age
Infantry whose charged attack hits every unit around it.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Urumi Swordsman (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Skirmishers
- Grouped infantry
Countered by
- Archer line
- Knight line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Cavalry Archers
Tip: The charged attack hurts packed groups of infantry. After it fires, the Urumi is ordinary infantry until it recharges. It has no pierce armour, so archers beat it.
Shotel Warrior / Elite Shotel Warrior Ethiopians Available from Castle Age
Fast-training, fast-moving infantry with high attack and low armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Shotel Warrior (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Skirmishers
- Siege
- Villagers (raiding)
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Knight line
- Cavalry
Tip: Shotel Warriors have high damage but little HP and armour. They do well against slow or ranged-weak targets, and lose to archers, Hand Cannoneers and Knights.
Throwing Axeman / Elite Throwing Axeman Franks Available from Castle Age
Infantry that throws axes at short range. The damage is melee, so pierce armour doesn’t reduce it.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Throwing Axeman (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Skirmishers
- Eagle Warriors
- Siege
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Cavalry Archers
- Scorpions
Tip: Because the axe does melee damage, Throwing Axemen go straight through high pierce armour like Huskarls and Eagle Warriors. They have low pierce armour themselves, so archers and Hand Cannoneers outrange and beat them.
Huskarl / Elite Huskarl Goths Available from Castle Age
Infantry with very high pierce armour and bonus damage against archers. Also trained at the Barracks after the Anarchy technology.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Huskarl (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Hand Cannoneers
- Buildings
- Siege
Countered by
- Militia line
- Jaguar Warriors
- Knight line
- Cavalry
Tip: Arrows do little to Huskarls, so ranged armies struggle against them. Melee units win: Champions and Knights trade well, and the Goths’ own trash infantry mix makes cavalry the more reliable answer.
Chakram Thrower / Elite Chakram Thrower Gurjaras Available from Castle Age
Ranged infantry that throws discs. The damage is melee and passes through several units in a line.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Chakram Thrower (Imperial)
Strong against
- Grouped infantry
- Spearman line
- Skirmishers
- Eagle Warriors
- High pierce armour units
Countered by
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Archer line
- Mangonel line
Tip: Because the damage is melee, Chakram Throwers hurt units that resist arrows, such as Huskarls and Eagle Warriors. They are slow and fragile in melee, so cavalry beats them.
Ghulam / Elite Ghulam Hindustanis Available from Castle Age
Infantry whose attack passes through the target to hit the unit behind. Bonus damage against archers and high pierce armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Ghulam (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Cavalry Archers
- Spearman line
- Siege
Countered by
- Militia line
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Jaguar Warriors
Tip: Ghulams are an anti-archer infantry: high pierce armour and bonus damage against archers. Low melee armour means Champions and Knights beat them.
Kamayuk / Elite Kamayuk Incas Available from Castle Age
Infantry with a spear that reaches one tile and bonus damage against cavalry.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Kamayuk (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Camels
- Battle Elephants
- Siege
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Cavalry Archers
- Scorpions
- Militia line
Tip: Kamayuks fill the Halberdier role with more HP and reach, so several can attack the same rider. Like other anti-cavalry infantry, archers and Hand Cannoneers beat them.
Samurai / Elite Samurai Japanese Available from Castle Age
Fast-attacking infantry with bonus damage against unique units.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Samurai (Imperial)
Strong against
- Unique units
- Militia line
- Eagle Warriors
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Knight line
- Cavalry Archers
Tip: Samurai do the most damage against other unique units such as Teutonic Knights, Jaguar Warriors and Berserks. Against standard units they are good infantry but no more, and archers and Knights beat them.
Liao Dao / Elite Liao Dao Khitans Available from Castle Age
Cheap, armoured infantry whose hits cause bleeding damage over time.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Liao Dao (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Eagle Warriors
- Cavalry (in groups)
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Cavalry Archers
- Scorpions
Tip: The bleed keeps hurting after each hit, so Liao Dao do well in long melee fights. They have 3 melee armour but only 1 pierce armour, so ranged units counter them.
Karambit Warrior / Elite Karambit Warrior Malay Available from Castle Age
Very cheap infantry that takes half a population space. Weak alone, used in large numbers.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Karambit Warrior (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Skirmishers
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Scorpions
- Mangonel line
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: Karambit Warriors are counted as half a unit, so the Malay can field large numbers. Splash damage from Mangonels and Scorpions hits many at once, and archers kill them quickly.
Gbeto / Elite Gbeto Malians Available from Castle Age
Fast infantry that throws knives at range. The damage is melee.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Gbeto (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Skirmishers
- Eagle Warriors
- Archers (in melee range)
Countered by
- Archer line
- Cavalry
- Knight line
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: Gbetos hit hard but have very low HP. Cavalry that reaches them wins quickly, and massed archers kill them before they get close.
Temple Guard / Elite Temple Guard Muisca Available from Castle Age
Infantry from the Monastery whose attack gets faster the longer it fights. Bonus damage against cavalry, camels and elephants.
Trained at: Monastery
Upgrades: Elite Temple Guard (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Elephants
- Camels
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Militia line
- Scorpions
Tip: Temple Guards get stronger in long fights and do bonus damage to mounted units. Like other anti-cavalry infantry, ranged units beat them.
Obuch / Elite Obuch Poles Available from Castle Age
Infantry whose hits strip melee armour from the target.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Obuch (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Militia line
- Teutonic Knights
- Other high-armour units
- Siege
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Cavalry Archers
- Scorpions
Tip: Each hit removes melee armour, so Obuchs do more damage the longer a fight goes, especially against heavily armoured units. Ranged units that keep their distance avoid this entirely.
Legionary Romans Available from Imperial Age
Replaces the Two-Handed Swordsman and Champion for the Romans. Bonus damage against infantry.
Trained at: Barracks
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Eagle Warriors
- Other infantry
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Knight line
- Cavalry Archers
Tip: Legionaries fill the Champion role with bonus damage against infantry. Ranged units and Knights counter them, as with any Militia-line unit.
Hearth Troop / Elite Hearth Troop Saxons Available from Castle Age
Slow, heavily armoured infantry (wood and gold) that throws a volley of javelins before fighting in melee. High pierce armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Hearth Troop (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Hand Cannoneers
- Spearman line
Countered by
- Militia line
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Mangonel line
Tip: With 4 pierce armour and an opening javelin volley, Hearth Troops are built to walk through ranged fire. They are slow and have low melee armour, so Champions and Knights beat them.
White Feather Guard / Elite White Feather Guard Shu Available from Castle Age
Cheap infantry (mostly food) that slows the units it hits. Bonus damage against cavalry, camels and elephants.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite White Feather Guard (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Elephants
- Camels
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Militia line
- Scorpions
Tip: The slowing hit stops cavalry escaping, which suits the Shu’s anti-cavalry role. Archers and Hand Cannoneers beat them, as with other spear infantry.
Serjeant / Elite Serjeant Sicilians Available from Feudal Age
Armoured infantry that can also build Donjons. Trained at the Donjon from Feudal Age and at the Castle.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Serjeant (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Archer line (with armour upgrades)
- Eagle Warriors
Countered by
- Hand Cannoneers
- Cavalry Archers
- Knight line
- Scorpions
Tip: Serjeants are durable but slow. Hand Cannoneers do bonus damage to them, and mobile units such as Cavalry Archers can avoid them entirely.
Teutonic Knight / Elite Teutonic Knight Teutons Available from Castle Age
Slow, heavily armoured infantry with very high melee attack and armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Teutonic Knight (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Cavalry
- Siege
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Cavalry Archers
- Scorpions
Tip: Teutonic Knights win almost any melee fight but are the slowest infantry in the game, so ranged units can shoot and step back.
Ibirapema Warrior / Elite Ibirapema Warrior Tupi Available from Castle Age
Infantry from the Barracks whose sweeping attack hits every enemy in front of it.
Trained at: Barracks
Upgrades: Elite Ibirapema Warrior (Imperial)
Strong against
- Grouped infantry
- Militia line
- Eagle Warriors
- Spearman line
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Knight line
- Scorpions
Tip: The sweeping attack does most damage against packed melee units. It has low pierce armour, so ranged units beat it.
Berserk / Elite Berserk Vikings Available from Castle Age
Infantry that regenerates HP. The Chieftains technology gives all Viking infantry +5 attack against cavalry and +4 against camels.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Berserk (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Eagle Warriors
- Cavalry (with Chieftains)
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Hand Cannoneers
- Scorpions
- Cavalry Archers
Tip: Berserks heal over time, so they keep fighting after skirmishes. Chieftains gives them bonus damage against cavalry, so Knights lose their edge. Archers and Hand Cannoneers are the counter. Since September 2026, Chieftains no longer gives gold for killing villagers, trade units and Monks.
Jian Swordsman Wu Available from Castle Age
Infantry from the Barracks with a shield that blocks damage until it breaks. High pierce armour and bonus damage against archers.
Trained at: Barracks
Strong against
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Spearman line
- Buildings
Countered by
- Militia line
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: Jian Swordsmen are built to close in on ranged units. Melee units, especially cavalry, beat them once the shield is gone.
Cavalry
Konnik / Elite Konnik Bulgarians Available from Castle Age
Heavy cavalry that becomes an infantry Konnik on foot when killed. Also trained at the Krepost.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Konnik (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Archer line
- Siege
- Cavalry (by trading twice)
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Monks
- Archer line (massed)
Tip: Killing a Konnik leaves a dismounted Konnik to fight on, so it takes two kills. Pikemen and Halberdiers handle both forms.
Coustillier / Elite Coustillier Burgundians Available from Castle Age
Cavalry with a charged first attack that does extra damage.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Coustillier (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Siege
- Hand Cannoneers
- Militia line
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Knight line (after the charge)
- Monks
Tip: The charge makes the opening hit strong, which suits hit-and-pull-back fighting. Once the charge is used it is a weaker Knight, so Halberdiers and Camels win long fights.
Cataphract / Elite Cataphract Byzantines Available from Castle Age
Heavy cavalry with bonus damage against infantry and resistance to anti-cavalry bonus damage.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Cataphract (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Halberdiers
- Camels
- Eagle Warriors
Countered by
- Archer line
- Monks
- Knight line
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: Cataphracts take reduced bonus damage from Spearmen, Halberdiers and Camels, so the usual anti-cavalry units fail. Archers, Monks and Knights are the counter.
Monaspa / Elite Monaspa Georgians Available from Castle Age
Cavalry that gets more attack the more Monaspa are nearby.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Monaspa (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Archer line
- Siege
- Cavalry (in groups)
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Monks
- Archer line (massed)
Tip: Monaspa do more damage in large groups. Small numbers lose to Knights; Pikemen and Halberdiers beat them in any number.
Camel Scout Gurjaras Available from Feudal Age
Replaces the Scout Cavalry for the Gurjaras. Fast camel scout that upgrades into the Camel Rider line.
Trained at: Stable
Strong against
- Villagers (raiding)
- Scouting
- Monks
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Archer line
- Militia line
Tip: Camel Scouts are a scouting and raiding unit. Spearmen do bonus damage to them, as to other camels.
Shrivamsha Rider / Elite Shrivamsha Rider Gurjaras Available from Castle Age
Fast light cavalry from the Stable that can dodge ranged attacks.
Trained at: Stable
Upgrades: Elite Shrivamsha Rider (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Siege
- Monks
- Villagers (raiding)
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Knight line
- Militia line
Tip: Shrivamsha Riders avoid arrows rather than absorb them, so they are used against ranged armies. Melee units, especially anti-cavalry infantry, beat them.
Imperial Camel Rider Hindustanis Available from Imperial Age
An extra upgrade to the Heavy Camel Rider. More HP and attack, with bonus damage against cavalry.
Trained at: Stable
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Cavalry Archers
- Camels
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Archer line
- Monks
- Militia line
Tip: It has the same role and counters as the Heavy Camel Rider, with better stats.
Tarkan / Elite Tarkan Huns Available from Castle Age
Cavalry with bonus damage against buildings. Also trained at the Stable after the Marauders technology.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Tarkan (Imperial)
Strong against
- Buildings
- Siege
- Archer line
- Villagers (raiding)
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Knight line
- Monks
Tip: Tarkans are a raiding and building-attack unit. In open fights, Pikemen, Camels and Knights beat them.
Iron Pagoda / Elite Iron Pagoda Jurchens Available from Castle Age
Heavy cavalry with 115 HP that occasionally blocks melee attacks.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Iron Pagoda (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Archer line
- Siege
- Cavalry
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Monks
- Archer line (massed)
Tip: Iron Pagodas are built to win long melee fights. Halberdiers still do bonus damage to them, and Monks trade well against an expensive unit.
Leitis / Elite Leitis Lithuanians Available from Castle Age
Cavalry whose attack ignores melee armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Leitis (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Teutonic Knights
- Boyars
- Other high-armour units
- Militia line
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Archer line (massed)
- Monks
Tip: Because armour does nothing against it, the Leitis does full damage to Paladins, Boyars and Teutonic Knights. Halberdiers and Camels still beat it.
Magyar Huszar / Elite Magyar Huszar Magyars Available from Castle Age
Light cavalry that costs no gold. Bonus damage against siege.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Magyar Huszar (Imperial)
Strong against
- Siege
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Monks
- Villagers (raiding)
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Knight line
- Militia line
Tip: Magyar Huszars are a gold-free cavalry unit for late-game fights. They beat siege and ranged units and lose to anti-cavalry units and heavy cavalry.
Kona / Elite Kona Mapuche Available from Castle Age
Fast cavalry that does more damage to wounded targets. Bonus damage against gunpowder units.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Kona (Imperial)
Strong against
- Hand Cannoneers
- Gunpowder units
- Archer line
- Siege
- Villagers (raiding)
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Knight line
- Militia line
Tip: Konas suit raiding and finishing off damaged units. They have no melee armour at the start and lose to Pikemen, Camels and heavy cavalry.
Savar Persians Available from Imperial Age
Replaces the Paladin for the Persians. High HP and armour.
Trained at: Stable
Strong against
- Militia line
- Archer line
- Siege
- Cavalry
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Monks
- Archer line (massed)
Tip: Savars fill the Paladin role and the same counters apply: Halberdiers and Camels for the cost, and Monks against an expensive unit.
War Elephant / Elite War Elephant Persians Available from Castle Age
Very slow elephant with high HP and attack. Splash damage around its target.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite War Elephant (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Cavalry
- Archer line (if it reaches them)
- Buildings
Countered by
- Monks
- Spearman line
- Archer line (kiting)
- Scorpions
Tip: War Elephants are very expensive and slow, so Monks trade well against them. Halberdiers do bonus damage to them.
Centurion / Elite Centurion Romans Available from Castle Age
Heavy cavalry that strengthens nearby Militia-line infantry.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Centurion (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Archer line
- Siege
- Cavalry
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Monks
- Archer line (massed)
Tip: Centurions are usually fielded with Legionaries, which they make stronger. Halberdiers and Camels counter the Centurion; archers counter the infantry around it.
Mameluke / Elite Mameluke Saracens Available from Castle Age
Camel cavalry that throws a scimitar at short range. Bonus damage against cavalry.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Mameluke (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Elephants
- Infantry (in groups)
Countered by
- Archer line
- Spearman line
- Monks
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: Mamelukes attack from a short distance, so several can hit the same target. They count as camels, so Spearmen and Halberdiers do bonus damage to them.
Boyar / Elite Boyar Slavs Available from Castle Age
Heavy cavalry with very high melee armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Boyar (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Siege
Countered by
- Archer line
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Monks
Tip: Boyars win melee fights through armour rather than damage. Their pierce armour is ordinary, so massed archers are the most direct counter.
Keshik / Elite Keshik Tatars Available from Castle Age
Cavalry that generates gold while fighting.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Keshik (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Archer line
- Siege
- Villagers (raiding)
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Knight line
- Monks
Tip: Keshiks pay back part of their cost in fights. In a straight fight they are weaker than Knights, so Pikemen and Camels beat them.
Jarl / Elite Jarl Varangians Available from Castle Age
Armoured cavalry that throws axes at range. The damage is melee, with bonus damage against infantry.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Jarl (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Other infantry
- Archers (in range)
Countered by
- Camels
- Knight line
- Skirmishers
- Monks
Tip: Jarls can attack infantry from range and pull back, so Pikemen struggle to reach them. Cavalry that closes the gap, especially Camels, beats them.
Tiger Cavalry / Elite Tiger Cavalry Wei Available from Castle Age
Cavalry with high pierce armour and bonus damage against archers. Gets stronger as it kills units.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Tiger Cavalry (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Cavalry Archers
- Skirmishers
- Siege
Countered by
- Spearman line
- Camels
- Monks
- Knight line
Tip: Tiger Cavalry are an anti-archer cavalry unit, and veteran units are stronger. Pikemen, Halberdiers and Camels beat them.
Archers and other ranged units
Composite Bowman / Elite Composite Bowman Armenians Available from Castle Age
Foot archer whose arrows ignore part of the target’s armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Composite Bowman (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- High-armour units
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Knight line
- Mangonel line
- Huskarls
Tip: Composite Bowmen are designed for fighting armoured targets. Like other foot archers, they lose to Skirmishers, siege and cavalry.
Ratha / Elite Ratha Bengalis Available from Castle Age
Chariot that switches between a ranged attack and a melee attack.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Ratha (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Archer line (melee mode)
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Knight line
- Camels
- Monks
Tip: Switching modes lets a Ratha shoot at infantry and fight archers up close. Skirmishers beat it in ranged mode; heavy cavalry beats it in melee.
Camel Archer / Elite Camel Archer Berbers Available from Castle Age
Mounted archer on a camel with bonus damage against Cavalry Archers.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Camel Archer (Imperial)
Strong against
- Cavalry Archers
- Mangudai
- Militia line
- Spearman line
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Spearman line (if they reach it)
- Knight line
- Monks
Tip: Camel Archers beat other cavalry archers. Skirmishers counter them as they do all archers.
Longbowman / Elite Longbowman Britons Available from Castle Age
Foot archer with longer range than the Archer line.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Longbowman (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Archer line
- Buildings at range
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Siege
- Knight line
- Eagle Warriors
Tip: Longbowmen outrange other archers and most defences. Skirmishers, Mangonels and fast cavalry that reach them are the counter.
Arambai / Elite Arambai Burmese Available from Castle Age
Mounted unit that throws darts with high damage and low accuracy.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Arambai (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Cavalry (in groups)
- Siege
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Archer line
- Knight line
- Camels
Tip: Arambai do high damage when grouped, but miss often. Skirmishers and archers counter them; their low HP means cavalry also wins if it reaches them.
Chu Ko Nu / Elite Chu Ko Nu Chinese Available from Castle Age
Foot archer that fires several arrows per shot. Low damage per arrow.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Chu Ko Nu (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Light cavalry
- Eagle Warriors
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Mangonel line
- Knight line
- Huskarls
Tip: Many small arrows do well against low-armour units and poorly against high armour. Skirmishers and Mangonels are the counter.
Kipchak / Elite Kipchak Cumans Available from Castle Age
Cavalry archer that fires several arrows per shot.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Kipchak (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Cavalry (with hit-and-run)
- Rams
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Archer line
- Knight line
- Mangonel line
Tip: Kipchaks spread damage across several arrows, so they do well against low armour. Skirmishers counter them.
Genoese Crossbowman / Elite Genoese Crossbowman Italians Available from Castle Age
Foot crossbowman with bonus damage against cavalry and elephants.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Genoese Crossbowman (Imperial)
Strong against
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Elephants
- Camels
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Mangonel line
- Militia line
- Huskarls
Tip: Genoese Crossbowmen are an anti-cavalry archer, unusual for the class. Skirmishers and siege beat them.
Ballista Elephant / Elite Ballista Elephant Khmer Available from Castle Age
Elephant carrying a ballista. Bolts pass through several units in a line.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Ballista Elephant (Imperial)
Strong against
- Grouped infantry
- Archer line
- Cavalry Archers
- Light cavalry
Countered by
- Knight line
- Mangonel line
- Monks (with Redemption)
- Spearman line
Tip: Ballista Elephants do most damage against units in a line. They are slow and weak in melee, so heavy cavalry that reaches them wins.
War Wagon / Elite War Wagon Koreans Available from Castle Age
Mounted archer in a wagon. 150 HP, costs mostly wood.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite War Wagon (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Archer line
- Spearman line
- Cavalry Archers
Countered by
- Spearman line (in melee)
- Camels
- Mangonel line
- Monks
Tip: War Wagons take a lot of damage to kill, so ranged units struggle. Pikemen, Halberdiers and Camels do bonus damage to them.
Bolas Rider / Elite Bolas Rider Mapuche Available from Castle Age
Mounted unit with a short-range bolas. Bonus damage against mounted units; a charged shot slows the target.
Trained at: Archery Range
Upgrades: Elite Bolas Rider (Imperial)
Strong against
- Cavalry
- Camels
- Elephants
- Cavalry Archers
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Spearman line
- Militia line
- Archer line
Tip: Bolas Riders slow and wear down cavalry, then pull back. Skirmishers and archers beat them, as with other mounted ranged units.
Plumed Archer / Elite Plumed Archer Mayans Available from Castle Age
Foot archer with more HP and pierce armour than the Archer line, and faster.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Plumed Archer (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Archer line
- Eagle Warriors
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Mangonel line
- Knight line
- Huskarls
Tip: Plumed Archers resist arrows better than other archers, so archer duels favour them. Mangonels, cavalry and Huskarls beat them.
Mangudai / Elite Mangudai Mongols Available from Castle Age
Fast cavalry archer with bonus damage against siege.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Mangudai (Imperial)
Strong against
- Siege
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Cavalry Archers
- Villagers (raiding)
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Camels
- Knight line (if caught)
- Mangonel line
Tip: Mangudai can shoot while moving away, so slow units can’t catch them. Skirmishers are the cheapest counter; Camels and Light Cavalry catch them.
Guecha Warrior / Elite Guecha Warrior Muisca Available from Castle Age
Short-range javelin thrower with high pierce armour and bonus damage against archers. Heals when a nearby Guecha Warrior dies.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Guecha Warrior (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Cavalry Archers
- Skirmishers
- Spearman line
Countered by
- Militia line
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Huskarls
Tip: Guecha Warriors are an anti-archer unit that resists arrows. Melee units, especially cavalry, beat them.
Blackwood Archer / Elite Blackwood Archer Tupi Available from Castle Age
Fast-firing foot archer trained in pairs. Each takes half a population space. The Curare technology adds poison damage.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Blackwood Archer (Imperial)
Strong against
- Spearman line
- Militia line
- Infantry (in numbers)
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Mangonel line
- Knight line
- Huskarls
Tip: Blackwood Archers have 20 HP and no armour, so they rely on numbers. Splash damage and Skirmishers counter them.
Rattan Archer / Elite Rattan Archer Vietnamese Available from Castle Age
Foot archer with high pierce armour.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Rattan Archer (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Skirmishers
- Militia line
- Spearman line
Countered by
- Mangonel line
- Knight line
- Huskarls
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: High pierce armour means Rattan Archers win archer fights and resist Skirmishers. Melee units and Mangonels beat them.
Xianbei Raider Wei Available from Castle Age
Cavalry archer from the Archery Range that fires several arrows. Costs wood and gold.
Trained at: Archery Range
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Villagers (raiding)
- Siege
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Camels
- Knight line
- Mangonel line
Tip: Xianbei Raiders are fragile (30 HP) and used for raiding. Skirmishers and fast cavalry counter them.
Fire Archer / Elite Fire Archer Wu Available from Castle Age
Foot archer with incendiary arrows that can switch attack modes. Bonus damage against buildings and ships.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Fire Archer (Imperial)
Strong against
- Buildings
- Ships
- Infantry
- Siege
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Knight line
- Mangonel line
- Huskarls
Tip: Fire Archers do the most damage to buildings and ships. Against armies they are a slow-firing archer, and Skirmishers and cavalry beat them.
Gunpowder
Grenadier Jurchens Available from Castle Age
Foot unit from the Archery Range that throws bombs. Bonus damage against infantry.
Trained at: Archery Range
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Eagle Warriors
- Buildings
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Knight line
- Cavalry
- Mangonel line
Tip: Grenadiers have 40 HP and do large damage to infantry. Cavalry and Skirmishers beat them.
Organ Gun / Elite Organ Gun Portuguese Available from Castle Age
Gunpowder siege that fires several projectiles in a spread.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Organ Gun (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Archer line
- Grouped units
Countered by
- Knight line
- Mangonel line
- Bombard Cannons
- Light cavalry
Tip: Organ Guns do most damage against grouped units in front of them. They are siege, so cavalry that reaches them wins.
Conquistador / Elite Conquistador Spanish Available from Castle Age
Mounted gunpowder unit with high damage at short range.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Conquistador (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Archer line
- Monks
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Spearman line (in melee)
- Camels
- Mangonel line
Tip: Conquistadors have high damage but low accuracy and armour. Skirmishers do bonus damage to them; Pikemen do bonus damage when they reach them.
Janissary / Elite Janissary Turks Available from Castle Age
Gunpowder infantry with longer range than the Hand Cannoneer.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Janissary (Imperial)
Strong against
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Archer line
- Cavalry (in groups)
Countered by
- Skirmishers
- Mangonel line
- Condottieri
- Knight line
Tip: Janissaries have high damage and range, but low accuracy at small numbers. Skirmishers do bonus damage to them, and siege beats grouped Janissaries.
Siege
Houfnice Bohemians Available from Imperial Age
Replaces the Bombard Cannon upgrade for the Bohemians. More range and damage.
Trained at: Siege Workshop
Strong against
- Siege
- Buildings
- Grouped infantry
- Archer line
Countered by
- Knight line
- Light cavalry
- Monks (with Redemption)
Tip: The Houfnice plays the Bombard Cannon role at longer range. Fast cavalry that reaches it wins.
Hussite Wagon / Elite Hussite Wagon Bohemians Available from Castle Age
Armoured wagon that shoots and reduces arrow damage to friendly units behind it.
Trained at: Castle
Upgrades: Elite Hussite Wagon (Imperial)
Strong against
- Archer line
- Cavalry Archers
- Hand Cannoneers
- Militia line
Countered by
- Monks (with Redemption)
- Knight line
- Mangonel line
- Bombard Cannons
Tip: Hussite Wagons protect units behind them from arrows. They are siege, so Monks with Redemption and melee cavalry are the counter.
Mounted Trebuchet Khitans Available from Imperial Age
Camel-carried trebuchet that fires without packing. Shots leave a hazard area on the ground.
Trained at: Siege Workshop
Strong against
- Buildings
- Siege
- Grouped units
Countered by
- Knight line
- Light cavalry
- Monks (with Redemption)
- Bombard Cannons
Tip: It moves and fires faster than a normal Trebuchet but has a shorter range. Fast cavalry is the counter.
War Chariot Shu Available from Castle Age
Chariot-mounted repeating crossbow with high pierce armour. Fires bolt barrages.
Trained at: Siege Workshop
Strong against
- Archer line
- Militia line
- Spearman line
- Buildings
Countered by
- Mangonel line
- Knight line
- Bombard Cannons
- Monks (with Redemption)
Tip: War Chariots have 5 pierce armour, so arrows do little. Mangonels, Bombard Cannons and melee cavalry are the counter.
Flaming Camel Tatars Available from Imperial Age
Single-use camel that explodes, with very large bonus damage against cavalry, camels and elephants.
Trained at: Siege Workshop
Strong against
- Elephants
- Knight line
- Camels
- Buildings
Countered by
- Archer line
- Spearman line
- Skirmishers
- Any unit that kills it first
Tip: Flaming Camels die when they explode. They do 130 bonus damage to elephants, so they are mostly used against elephant civs. Shooting them before they arrive is the counter.
Support
Warrior Priest Armenians Available from Castle Age
Infantry from the Fortified Church that fights in melee and heals nearby units. Cannot convert.
Trained at: Fortified Church
Strong against
- Militia line (with healing)
- Spearman line
- Skirmishers
Countered by
- Archer line
- Knight line
- Hand Cannoneers
Tip: Warrior Priests keep an infantry army healthy between fights. They are slow, so ranged units and cavalry beat them.
Missionary Spanish Available from Castle Age
Mounted monk. Faster than a Monk, with shorter conversion range.
Trained at: Monastery
Strong against
- Knight line
- Elephants
- Siege (with Redemption)
Countered by
- Scout line
- Eagle Warriors
- Archer line
Tip: Missionaries keep up with cavalry. Light cavalry kills them quickly, as it does Monks.
Ships
Dragon Ship Chinese Available from Imperial Age
Unique upgrade to the Chinese Fire Ship line, with more armour.
Trained at: Dock
Strong against
- Galley line
- Caravels
- Turtle Ships
Countered by
- Cannon Galleons
- Demolition ships
- Bombard Cannons on shore
Tip: It fills the Fire Ship role with more armour. Ships and units that outrange it are the counter.
Thirisadai Dravidians Available from Imperial Age
Large warship with 250 HP and 11 pierce armour.
Trained at: Dock
Strong against
- Galley line
- Buildings
- Rams
Countered by
- Fire ships
- Demolition ships
- Bombard Cannons on shore
Tip: Arrows do little to a Thirisadai. Fire ships, demolition ships and gunpowder are the counter.
Turtle Ship / Elite Turtle Ship Koreans Available from Castle Age
Slow, heavily armoured ship with a short-range cannon.
Trained at: Dock
Upgrades: Elite Turtle Ship (Imperial)
Strong against
- Galley line
- Fire ships
- Buildings near water
Countered by
- Cannon Galleons (at range)
- Demolition ships
- Bombard Cannons on shore
Tip: Turtle Ships take little damage from arrows and fire. Units that outrange them or explode on them are the counter.
Caravel / Elite Caravel Portuguese Available from Castle Age
Warship whose arrows pass through to hit units behind the target.
Trained at: Dock
Upgrades: Elite Caravel (Imperial)
Strong against
- Galley line
- Fire ships (at range)
- Grouped ships
Countered by
- Fire ships (up close)
- Demolition ships
- Cannon Galleons
Tip: Caravels’ arrows hit several ships in a line. Fire ships and demolition ships counter them up close.
Units shared by several civs — such as the Slinger, Fire Lancer, Condottiero, Genitour and Imperial Skirmisher — are in the main Counter Guide.
Last checked against the game data: 2026-10-21.