Lancero de Estepa

Steppe Lancers are most effective either in large groups, as their range enables larger masses to attack from behind the frontline, similar to the Inca Kamayuk, or in smaller packs for quick raids. Their speed and range allow them to hit-and-run like Cavalry Archers. Masses of Steppe Lancers work especially well in choke points and can work well in combination with other, more durable units, such as Knights, as they can attack over their backs while remaining safe. The range allows them to tear through Palisade Walls and regular buildings much faster than most units, as more units can attack at once. This makes them great at opening up an opponent's walled-off base. This is helped by the fact that they have a lower cost than Knights, making them easier to afford. Micromanagement is critically important when the player faces melee units. Thanks to its high movement speed, it can outrun every unit except for the Camel Rider and Light Cavalry lines. This makes it very hard to counter early on in the Castle Age, as Crossbowmen are too slow to force an engagement. The best units to counter an army of Steppe Lancers are Knights, camel units, and Cavalry Archers. Against Pikemen, the Steppe Lancer's range means that they can hit-and-run depending on the situation, and hit-and-run on masses of cluttered units.