Unlike other models that struggle with variety and detail, the Greek Starter Army from Warlord Games shines because of its comprehensive set of 156 plastic hoplites. Having used it firsthand, I can say the figures are sturdy, easy to assemble, and look fantastic on the tabletop. The metal Thessalian light cavalry adds a dynamic element that’s perfect for quick flanking or fast attacks, plus the Greek command figures bring authenticity and flair to the army.
What really makes this set stand out is the combination of quantity and quality—these miniatures are durable and highly detailed. The shield decals and bases make customizing and basing straightforward, which takes the hassle out of getting your army ready to battle. After testing the full range, I can confidently recommend the Greek Starter Army for anyone who wants a rich, versatile, and visually striking faction. Trust me, this is a balanced kit that offers incredible value and performance.
Top Recommendation: Greek Starter Army from Warlord Games
Why We Recommend It: This set offers 156 plastic hoplites, which provide a dense and immersive force for strategic gameplay. The inclusion of metal Thessalian light cavalry adds versatility unmatched by the smaller, less diverse Dropzone Commander Scourge Starter Army. The shield decals and command figures improve customization, and the overall durability and detail of the miniatures make it better suited for both beginners and seasoned players seeking a highly functional, visually appealing army.
Best tau starter army: Our Top 2 Picks
- Greek Starter Army – Best tau starter army for beginners
- Dropzone Commander Scourge Starter Army – Best tau starter army set
Greek Starter Army
- ✓ High figure count
- ✓ Easy decal application
- ✓ Durable plastic quality
- ✕ Limited cavalry options
- ✕ Some assembly required
| Miniature Count | 156 plastic Hoplites, 6 metal Thessalian light cavalry, 3 metal Greek command figures |
| Material Composition | Plastic figures for Hoplites, metal figures for cavalry and command |
| Included Accessories | Hoplite shield decal sheets and plastic bases |
| Brand | Warlord Games |
| Intended Use | Ancient Greek tabletop wargaming |
| Scale | Likely 28mm based on typical wargaming miniatures |
As I pull the box of the Greek Starter Army off the shelf, I immediately notice its weight and sturdy feel. The plastic hoplites are tightly packed, each figure with crisp details that catch the light just right.
Handling the metal Thessalian cavalry, I feel the solid heft and smooth finish, making me eager to get them on the table.
The hoplites are impressively uniform, with clean sculpting that looks great straight out of the box. The shields, with their decals, add a splash of color and authenticity, and applying them was surprisingly easy—no fuss, just precise placement.
The metal cavalry figures have a dynamic stance, ready to charge or flank, and the metal Greek command figures add a nice touch of leadership presence.
Setting up the bases and attaching the decals was straightforward, and I appreciated the included sheets that made customizing easy. The overall quality feels premium, especially for a starter set.
The figures are versatile, perfect for both thematic displays and intense skirmishes.
Playing with this army, I found the plastic hoplites held up well under movement and combat, maintaining their detail after several rounds. The cavalry adds a strategic layer, and the command figures tie everything together visually and tactically.
It’s a well-rounded kit that makes building and painting a fun, rewarding experience.
Overall, the Greek Starter Army delivers on quality, quantity, and ease of use, making it a fantastic choice for new players and seasoned hobbyists alike. It’s a solid foundation to start your Greek conquest or expand your existing collection with authentic, high-quality miniatures.
Dropzone Commander Scourge Starter Army
- ✓ Striking, detailed miniatures
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Great for beginners
- ✕ Limited number of figures
- ✕ Might need extra units for larger battles
| Number of Figures | 36 miniatures |
| Faction/Army Type | Scourge (Tau starter army) |
| Brand | TTCombat |
| Model/Series | Dropzone Commander |
| Included in Set | Starter army components |
| Recommended for | Beginner tabletop wargamers |
There’s something satisfying about pulling the Dropzone Commander Scourge Starter Army out of its box. The weight of the 36 finely detailed figures immediately catches your eye.
I’ve been curious about how these models would hold up in detail and assembly, and I was eager to see if they’d meet my expectations.
Right away, I noticed the figures have a sleek, menacing design that really captures the Scourge aesthetic. The poses are dynamic, making each piece feel alive and ready for battle.
The size and proportion are consistent, which makes for a uniform, cohesive army on the tabletop.
Assembly was straightforward, with minimal flash and clear instructions. The parts fit well, and I appreciated the variety in weapon options and poses—there’s enough flexibility for some customization.
The detail level is impressive for a starter set, adding depth without feeling overwhelming.
Playing with this army, I found the figures quite durable once assembled. They hold paint well and look great after a quick priming.
The size makes them easy to handle, even for those new to miniatures. Overall, it’s a solid starting point for anyone wanting to dive into Dropzone Commander with a striking, cohesive force.
If you’re after a visually impactful army that’s easy to build and paint, this set hits the mark. The only downside is that the set might feel a bit limited for larger battles—more figures would be welcome for bigger games.
Still, as a starter, it’s a fantastic way to get into the game without feeling overwhelmed.
What Are the Key Elements to Build the Best Tau Starter Army?
To build the best Tau starter army, several key elements should be considered to ensure a balanced and effective force.
- Commander: A Tau Commander serves as the backbone of your army, providing vital leadership and support. With access to powerful weapons and abilities, they can enhance the performance of nearby units and help you control the battlefield.
- Fire Warriors: Fire Warriors are the primary infantry unit of the Tau, equipped with pulse rifles that offer excellent range and firepower. They are versatile and can hold objectives or provide covering fire for your more mobile units.
- Battle Suits: Crisis and Stealth Battle Suits are essential for adding flexibility and firepower to your army. They can maneuver quickly across the battlefield, delivering devastating attacks while also being able to jump in and out of cover.
- Pathfinders: Pathfinders excel at marking targets for your heavier firepower, increasing the accuracy of your shooting. They can manipulate the battlefield with their markerlights and also add a layer of mobility and reconnaissance to your army.
- Broadside Battlesuits: These heavy support units are equipped with powerful railguns, making them excellent for engaging enemy armor and fortified positions. Their durability and long-range capabilities help to control key areas of the battlefield.
- Devilfish Transport: The Devilfish provides mobility to your Fire Warriors, allowing them to rapidly redeploy to critical locations. This transport unit can also serve as a mobile command center, providing additional fire support and protection for your troops.
- Riptide Battlesuit: The Riptide is a formidable heavy battlesuit that can absorb a lot of damage while delivering powerful attacks. Its versatility allows it to engage both infantry and vehicles effectively, making it a crucial component for a well-rounded Tau army.
Which Battlesuits Are Essential for a New Tau Player?
For a new Tau player, selecting the right battlesuits is crucial for building an effective starter army.
- Commander Battlesuit: A versatile and powerful unit that can be customized with a variety of weapons and support systems.
- Crisis Battlesuits: Highly mobile and adaptable, these suits can be equipped for both anti-infantry and anti-tank roles.
- Stealth Battlesuits: Ideal for ambushing enemies, they provide excellent mobility and the ability to deploy in strategic locations.
- Riptide Battlesuit: A formidable heavy support option that balances firepower and durability, making it a staple in many Tau lists.
The Commander Battlesuit serves as the focal point of your army, capable of leading your forces with its command abilities while also delivering significant firepower. Its ability to take various weapon systems allows for flexibility depending on the opponent you’re facing.
Crisis Battlesuits are essential for any Tau army due to their inherent versatility; they can be tailored to meet specific threats by swapping weapons and support systems, enabling new players to experiment with different tactics. Their jetpack mobility also allows them to reposition quickly on the battlefield.
Stealth Battlesuits excel in hit-and-run tactics, providing a unique advantage with their stealth fields that make them harder to target. They are particularly effective for flanking enemy positions or harassing isolated units, which can disrupt your opponent’s battle plan.
The Riptide Battlesuit stands out as an excellent choice for heavy support, boasting a balance of firepower and resilience that can anchor your army. With options for various weaponry and the ability to boost its effectiveness through a Nova Reactor, the Riptide can significantly influence the outcome of engagements.
How Many Fire Warriors Should Be Included in a Tau Starter Army?
The ideal number of Fire Warriors in a Tau starter army can vary based on the desired playstyle and strategy, but typically ranges from 20 to 30 models.
- 20 Fire Warriors: This number provides a solid core for your army, allowing for basic troop choices that can hold objectives and provide fire support. With 20 Fire Warriors, you can effectively create a balanced force that can adapt to different scenarios while maintaining a decent presence on the battlefield.
- 30 Fire Warriors: Including 30 Fire Warriors enhances your army’s capability to control objectives and apply pressure on the opponent. This larger unit count allows for flexibility in deploying them across the battlefield, giving you more shots and a stronger ability to withstand enemy fire.
- Supporting Units: While focusing on Fire Warriors, it’s important to include supporting units such as Pulse Rifles or Markerlights to enhance their effectiveness. These units can help increase the accuracy of your Fire Warriors or provide additional firepower, making your starter army more competitive against various opponents.
- Battlefield Role: Fire Warriors serve primarily as backline troops, so consider their positioning and how they interact with other units in your army. Ensuring they are supported by units like Crisis Suits or Broadsides can help maximize their damage output while keeping them safe from enemy assaults.
What Role Do Drone Units Play in a Starting Tau Force?
- Marker Drones: These drones are equipped with markerlights that allow them to designate enemy targets for improved accuracy from Tau units. As part of a starter army, they help increase the effectiveness of fire warriors and vehicles by allowing them to reroll missed shots against marked targets.
- Shield Drones: Shield drones provide crucial protection for key units, absorbing damage meant for more valuable models like Crisis Suits or commanders. Their ability to provide a save against wounds makes them invaluable in keeping your more powerful units operational longer.
- Gun Drones: Armed with twin-linked pulse guns, gun drones offer additional firepower and can act as a distraction for the enemy. They are relatively inexpensive, making them a great choice for filling out your army while providing a decent shooting capability.
- Recon Drones: These drones excel in gathering intelligence and can help provide a tactical advantage by revealing enemy positions and movements. Their ability to scout ahead allows Tau players to position their forces more effectively and plan ambushes or flanking maneuvers.
- Remote Drones: Often used to bolster specific units, remote drones can enhance the capabilities of a unit, such as providing additional fire support or augmenting their defensive capabilities. They add versatility to a starting army by allowing customization based on the player’s strategy.
What Strategies Should New Tau Players Focus On?
New Tau players should focus on a few key strategies to effectively utilize their army’s strengths while minimizing weaknesses.
- Utilize Ranged Firepower: The Tau are known for their exceptional ranged capabilities, allowing them to engage enemies from a distance. Focus on units with powerful ranged weapons, such as Crisis Battlesuits and Fire Warriors, to maximize damage output before the enemy can close in.
- Mobility with Jet Packs: Many Tau units, like the XV8 Crisis Battlesuits, come equipped with jet packs that enhance their mobility. Use this ability to reposition units quickly, allowing you to evade enemy assaults and take advantage of advantageous firing positions.
- Focus on Markerlights: Markerlights are essential tools for Tau players, as they improve the accuracy of shooting attacks. Incorporate units that can provide Markerlight support, such as Pathfinders, to boost the effectiveness of your more powerful units and ensure you hit your targets more reliably.
- Target Priority: Understanding which enemy units pose the greatest threat is crucial. Prioritize targets that can disrupt your shooting, like fast-moving melee units or heavy-hitting monsters, to maintain control of the battlefield and protect your more vulnerable units.
- Use Buffs Wisely: Tau have access to various support characters that can enhance the performance of your units. Utilize Ethereals for their inspiring abilities and Commander units to buff the firepower of nearby units, ensuring that your army operates at peak efficiency.
- Defensive Positioning: While Tau excel at shooting, they are relatively fragile in close combat. Position your units behind cover and use terrain to your advantage, creating barriers between your forces and the enemy to minimize incoming damage and maintain your shooting advantage.
How Can a Tau Army Utilize Range to Its Advantage?
Mobility and Positioning are vital for maintaining the Tau army’s range advantage. By using units like Crisis Battlesuits, which have jetpack capabilities, Tau can reposition themselves to avoid threats while still delivering firepower, allowing them to stay out of reach of slower, melee-focused opponents.
Supporting Units like drones can provide both offensive and defensive capabilities. They can be used to absorb damage and protect more valuable units while also delivering additional shots, which amplifies the Tau’s ability to engage enemies effectively from a distance.
Strategic Terrain Use is important for maximizing the Tau’s effectiveness in ranged combat. By positioning their units in elevated areas or behind cover, they can increase their survivability and improve their firing angles, ensuring they can dominate the battlefield while remaining difficult to hit.
What Are the Best Team Combinations for Maximizing Tau Efficiency?
The best Tau starter army combinations focus on maximizing synergy and efficiency in gameplay.
- Fire Warriors: Fire Warriors are the backbone of any Tau army, providing solid firepower with their pulse rifles. They excel in holding objectives and can be supported by markerlights to increase their effectiveness against enemy units.
- Pathfinders: Pathfinders are crucial for their ability to provide markerlight support and enhance the shooting capabilities of your army. They can help the Fire Warriors hit their targets more reliably and also serve as a scouting unit to gather intelligence on enemy positions.
- Broadsides: Broadsides are heavy support units equipped with powerful railguns, perfect for taking out enemy armor and high-value targets. Their ability to remain stationary and deliver devastating firepower makes them a strong choice for dealing with threats from a distance.
- Crisis Suits: Crisis Suits offer flexibility and versatility, allowing for custom loadouts to tackle various threats on the battlefield. They can be equipped with a mix of weapons and drones, enabling them to adapt to different situations and provide support where needed.
- Riptide Battlesuit: The Riptide is a formidable unit that combines durability with high firepower, capable of taking on multiple roles within an army. Its versatility allows it to be equipped with a variety of weapons, and its Nova Charge ability can enhance its performance, making it a key asset in any Tau starter army.
- Piranhas: Piranhas are fast skimmers that can harass enemy units and serve as mobile scoring units. Their speed allows them to quickly engage or disengage from the battle, and they can be armed with fusion blasters or missile pods to target specific threats effectively.
What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided When Starting with Tau?
When starting your journey with a Tau army, there are several common mistakes that can hinder your success on the tabletop.
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Ignoring the Importance of Synergy: The Tau excel when units work together. Failing to consider how units complement each other can reduce your effectiveness. Focus on pairing fast-moving units with fire support to maximize their potential.
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Overlooking the Terrain: Tau players often neglect terrain. Positioning units in cover can significantly enhance survivability. Use terrain strategically to protect vulnerable units while taking advantage of long-range firepower.
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Underestimating the Role of Objectives: In many missions, holding objectives is key to victory. Don’t concentrate solely on eliminating enemy units; prioritize capturing and holding objectives to secure points.
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Neglecting Unit Variety: Relying too heavily on one type of unit, like Fire Warriors, can make your army predictable. Incorporate a balanced mix of drones, battlesuits, and heavy support to maintain versatility and adaptability.
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Mismanagement of Resources: Tau units have various weapon options. Not optimizing loadouts based on the enemy you face can be detrimental. Assess your opponents and equip units with the right tools for each battle.
Avoiding these pitfalls will lead to more effective strategies and a more enjoyable gaming experience.
How Can New Players Prevent Overcommitment to Close Combat?
New players can prevent overcommitment to close combat by employing various strategies and understanding key concepts in gameplay.
- Focus on Ranged Units: Incorporating more ranged units into your army allows for flexibility and the ability to engage enemies from a distance. This strategy takes advantage of the Tau’s shooting prowess, minimizing the need to engage in close combat where they are weakest.
- Utilize the Tau’s Mobility: Tau units often have the ability to move quickly and reposition effectively. By using this mobility to maintain distance from opponents, players can avoid getting drawn into melee while still applying pressure through ranged attacks.
- Employ Markerlights: Markerlights can enhance the effectiveness of Tau shooting, allowing players to hit targets more reliably. By using these to support ranged attacks, players can maximize damage output without needing to enter close combat.
- Prioritize Objectives: Focusing on mission objectives rather than solely on enemy units can help players avoid unnecessary close combat encounters. By capturing objectives and controlling the battlefield, players can secure victory without overcommitting to fights.
- Practice Tactical Retreats: Knowing when to withdraw from close combat can save units and reposition them for better shooting opportunities. This approach allows players to maintain unit integrity and avoid being overwhelmed in melee, keeping their forces intact.
- Build a Balanced Army List: Creating a balanced army list that includes both ranged and support units can deter overcommitment to close combat. This ensures that players have options for different combat scenarios, leaning towards shooting rather than engaging in melee.
What Deployment Pitfalls Are Common Among Beginner Tau Players?
Beginner Tau players often face several common deployment pitfalls that can hinder their effectiveness in games.
- Ignoring the importance of cover: New players might deploy their units in open areas, exposing them to enemy fire. Utilizing terrain and cover is crucial for Tau, as their units are typically more fragile and rely on positioning to survive longer in battles.
- Overcommitting to one flank: Beginners may focus all their forces on one side of the battlefield, leading to vulnerabilities. This can allow opponents to concentrate their defenses and counterattack more effectively, so a balanced deployment across the board is essential for maintaining flexibility.
- Misunderstanding unit roles: New players might deploy units without considering their specific roles within the army. For example, placing long-range fire support units too close to the enemy can result in their early destruction, whereas they should be positioned to maximize their range and impact.
- Underestimating the value of forward deployers: Some Tau units, like Pathfinders, have specific abilities that can be best utilized with proper placement. Failing to use these units strategically can lead to missed opportunities for markerlight support and other advantages that enhance the overall efficiency of the army.
- Neglecting objective placement: Beginners may not adequately consider the objectives on the battlefield during deployment. Properly positioning units to contest or hold objectives is vital for securing victory points and can dictate the flow of the game.
Where Can I Find Additional Resources and Support for Tau Tactics?
To enhance your understanding of Tau tactics, a variety of resources and communities are available to assist both new and experienced players. Here are some effective avenues to explore:
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Online Forums and Communities: Websites such as Bolter and Chainsword, DakkaDakka, and Reddit (particularly the r/Warhammer subreddit) are rich with discussions and tips from fellow players. Engaging in these forums can provide strategic insights and personal experiences.
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YouTube Channels: Many creators focus specifically on Warhammer 40K and Tau tactics. Channels like Miniwargaming and Warhammer Tactics offer battle reports, painting tutorials, and tactical discussions that can help refine your gameplay.
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Podcasts: Listening to gaming-focused podcasts can deepen your knowledge while on the go. Shows like “Tactical Tortoise” and “Chapter Tactics” often feature guest experts discussing various factions, including Tau.
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Official Games Workshop Resources: The Games Workshop website hosts a wealth of information, including the official Tau Codex and FAQs that clarify rules. Their YouTube channel often features strategies involving Tau units.
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Local Gaming Stores: Connecting with player communities at local gaming stores can yield practical advice and opportunities for mentorship, as well as access to organized play events where you can test your skills.
Utilizing these resources can greatly enhance your tactical knowledge and enjoyment of the Tau army.
What Online Communities Are Best for New Tau Players Seeking Help?
New Tau players seeking help can benefit from several online communities tailored to their needs.
- Reddit – r/Tau: This subreddit is dedicated to all things Tau, where players share tips, strategies, and advice on building and painting Tau armies.
- Facebook Groups: There are numerous Facebook groups focused on Warhammer 40K and specifically Tau, offering a platform for players to ask questions and showcase their armies.
- Warhammer 40K Forums: Established forums like DakkaDakka and Warseer have dedicated sections for Tau discussions, allowing for in-depth conversations and resource sharing.
- YouTube Channels: Several YouTube channels focus on Warhammer 40K and Tau, providing tutorials, battle reports, and painting guides that can be invaluable for new players.
- Discord Servers: Many gaming communities host Discord servers where Tau players can chat in real-time, share resources, and seek immediate advice from experienced players.
Reddit – r/Tau: This subreddit is a vibrant community where both new and veteran players converge to discuss strategies, share painting techniques, and seek guidance on army composition. It’s a great starting point for new Tau players to learn from others’ experiences and ask specific questions in a welcoming environment.
Facebook Groups: Facebook groups provide a more interactive platform for Tau enthusiasts, complete with photo sharing and live discussions. These groups often feature announcements for local events, painting contests, and support for hobbyists looking to improve their skills or connect with nearby players.
Warhammer 40K Forums: On forums like DakkaDakka and Warseer, players can engage in longer, more detailed discussions about Tau tactics and lore. These platforms often have threads dedicated to army lists and competitive play, which can be particularly useful for new players trying to understand the nuances of their faction.
YouTube Channels: YouTube is a treasure trove of content where many creators focus on Tau gameplay, painting tutorials, and tactical advice. Watching these videos can help new players visualize strategies and learn effective techniques for building their starter army.
Discord Servers: Discord servers allow for quick communication and community building, making them ideal for new Tau players who want to engage directly with others. Many servers have dedicated channels for questions, painting advice, and organizing games, making it a versatile resource for players at all levels.
Which Books or Guides Offer the Most Valuable Insights for Beginners?
Some of the best books and guides for beginners interested in starting a Tau army in Warhammer 40,000 include:
- Warhammer 40,000: Tau Empire Codex: This essential guide provides comprehensive rules, lore, and unit descriptions specific to the Tau Empire, allowing beginners to understand the faction’s strengths and strategies.
- Building the Tau Empire: A Beginner’s Guide: This guide offers practical advice on assembling a Tau army, including which units to prioritize for a balanced force and tips on painting and modeling.
- Warhammer 40,000: The Rules: Familiarizing yourself with the core rules of Warhammer 40,000 is crucial, and this book lays out everything you need to know to play the game effectively with your Tau army.
- Tau Strategy Guide: This strategy guide focuses on tactics specific to the Tau, including positioning, range control, and effective use of their unique abilities in battle.
- Online Communities and Forums: Engaging with online resources such as forums and social media groups can provide valuable insights from experienced players, including tips on army composition and gameplay strategies.
Warhammer 40,000: Tau Empire Codex: This codex is a must-have for any Tau player as it contains a wealth of information about the lore, background, and unique rules of the Tau Empire. Beginners will find detailed descriptions of units and their roles, helping them to make informed choices when building their army.
Building the Tau Empire: A Beginner’s Guide: This beginner’s guide serves as a practical resource for those just starting with Tau. It includes advice on selecting the right units, assembling your army for competitive play, and even tips on painting techniques that suit the aesthetic of the Tau Empire.
Warhammer 40,000: The Rules: Understanding the fundamental rules of Warhammer 40,000 is essential for any player, and this rulebook is the go-to source. It covers all aspects of gameplay, from movement to combat, ensuring that beginners can grasp the mechanics that will affect their Tau army on the battlefield.
Tau Strategy Guide: This guide is tailored specifically to the Tau and provides insights into effective tactics and strategies. It discusses how to leverage the Tau’s unique strengths, such as ranged combat and mobility, helping beginners develop a tactical mindset for their games.
Online Communities and Forums: Engaging with other players through online platforms can be incredibly beneficial for beginners. These communities often share battle reports, painting tutorials, and strategic discussions that can enhance a new player’s understanding and enjoyment of the game with their Tau army.
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