Ultimate 2K Empire List Guide: Conquer The Battlefield!
Building a powerful and competitive 2K Empire of Man army list is one of the most rewarding experiences in tabletop gaming, especially when you're diving into the rich world of Warhammer Fantasy Battles. For you seasoned generals and fresh recruits alike, the 2000-point format is often considered the sweet spot – it's big enough to field a diverse array of units and implement complex strategies, yet not so overwhelming that games drag on forever. Getting your Empire list just right isn't just about throwing cool models together; it's about synergy, understanding roles, and anticipating what your opponent might bring to the table. In this comprehensive guide, we're going to break down everything you need to know to construct an effective and devastating 2K Empire of Man army list. We'll talk about the core principles, the must-have units, and those clever combinations that can turn the tide of battle. Whether you prefer a steadfast gunline, a thunderous cavalry charge, or a subtle magical assault, the Empire of Man offers unparalleled flexibility. So, grab your pencils, guys, and let's craft an Empire army that will strike fear into the hearts of your enemies and bring glory to Reikland! We'll make sure your 2000-point Empire army list isn't just good, it's legendary. This isn't just about winning; it's about dominating the battlefield with a finely tuned, meticulously planned force that truly embodies the strength and resilience of the Empire. Let's forge an unforgettable Empire army list that stands the test of time and countless battles.
Understanding the Empire's Strengths: The Foundation of Victory
When we talk about the Empire of Man, we're really talking about a faction defined by its unrivaled versatility and its incredible ability to employ a true combined arms approach. Unlike some specialist armies that excel in one area but falter in others, the Empire army can genuinely do everything – and do it pretty well, given the right strategic choices. This inherent adaptability is arguably the Empire's greatest strength, making your 2K Empire list a tactical puzzle for any opponent. You've got access to some of the most reliable and varied shooting units in the game, from massed handgunners to devastating artillery. Then there's the magic phase, where Empire Wizards can unleash powerful spells from multiple lores, offering both offensive firepower and crucial defensive buffs. Close combat isn't neglected either; while perhaps not as elite as some dedicated warrior races, your state troops are stubborn and numerous, capable of holding the line, while elite units like Greatswords and Knights provide excellent killing power. The true genius of an Empire list lies in its synergy: how your various units support each other. Your artillery softens up big threats, your missile troops whittle down enemy hordes, your infantry holds the line, and your cavalry and elite units deliver the decisive blows. It’s a beautifully orchestrated symphony of war, and mastering it means understanding how each piece contributes to the overall masterpiece. Guys, remember that a balanced 2K Empire list leverages these diverse strengths to create a force that has an answer for almost any challenge, ensuring that you're never caught completely off guard. This multi-faceted approach is what makes the Empire so much fun to play and so difficult for opponents to crack, truly embodying the spirit of a well-rounded military power.
Core Choices: The Foundation of Your 2K Empire List
Every strong 2K Empire list begins with a solid core, the backbone that will hold your battle line and give your more specialized units the freedom to maneuver and strike. These are the unsung heroes of the Empire army, providing both staying power and crucial battlefield control. Let's dive into the essential choices that form the foundation of your force.
State Troops: Holding the Line with Grit and Steel
State Troops are the quintessential Empire infantry, forming the sturdy, often numerous blocks that anchor your battle line. You've got three main flavors here: Spearmen, Halberdiers, and Swordsmen, each with their own tactical niche. Spearmen are your cheapest option, fantastic for providing rank bonuses and simply existing to hold up enemy units. They're excellent tarpits, tying up dangerous threats while your more damaging units position for a counter-charge. Don't underestimate a large block of Spearmen; their sheer numbers can be surprisingly resilient. Halberdiers are where you start to get some real offensive punch from your core infantry. With their higher Strength, they're much better at wounding tougher foes and can dish out a respectable amount of damage in combat. A large unit of Halberdiers supported by a Warrior Priest or a character with the Stubborn rule can be incredibly hard to dislodge and can even trade blows effectively with many elite infantry. Then there are Swordsmen, who benefit from a higher Weapon Skill and a passive Parry save. While slightly more expensive than Spearmen, their enhanced defense makes them a great choice for protecting a valuable character or holding a critical objective against concentrated attacks. They're more resilient than they appear, often outlasting units that underestimate their defensive capabilities. When building your 2K Empire list, consider a mix: perhaps a large block of Spearmen for pure resilience and a slightly smaller, more offensive unit of Halberdiers. The key is to have enough core infantry to cover your frontage, protect your flanks, and absorb charges, allowing your heavy cavalry and war machines to do their work unmolested. A well-chosen core of state troops will never let you down and will always be crucial to your Empire's victory on the tabletop. Guys, remember that these units aren't just cannon fodder; they are the disciplined heart of your army, ready to hold their ground and fight for the Empire with unwavering resolve.
Archers and Crossbowmen: The Ranged Threat from Afar
While the Empire is famous for its powerful war machines, don't overlook the humble Archers and Crossbowmen in your 2K Empire list. These units provide reliable, albeit less spectacular, ranged support that can be invaluable for picking off stragglers, softening up charges, or dealing with lightly armored units. Archers are the cheaper option, offering a decent volume of fire, especially against enemies with low Toughness. They're great for flanking maneuvers or protecting the rear of your main battle line, providing a deterrent against fast-moving skirmishers. Crossbowmen, on the other hand, bring more punch with their higher Strength, making them better suited for taking on heavily armored foes or even monstrous infantry at range. While their slower rate of fire means less dice, the quality of those shots can be significant. When incorporating these missile troops into your Empire army, consider their role. Are they there to provide supporting fire for your gunline, or are they meant to thin out enemy hordes before they hit your state troops? They might not be the stars of your army, but a well-placed unit of Archers or Crossbowmen can certainly make a difference, especially when combined with the threat of your artillery. Remember, every point of damage counts, and these guys are consistent damage dealers that add flexibility to your overall strategy. You'll want to ensure they have good lines of sight and are protected from direct charges, allowing them to rain down death from a safe distance. They are the consistent harassment that keeps your opponent thinking, providing invaluable fire support for your grand strategy.
Special Units: The Punch and the Precision for Your Empire Army
Once you've got your solid core in place, it's time to infuse your 2K Empire list with some serious punch and precision. The Empire's special choices are where you truly define your army's character and strategy, bringing in elite fighters, swift outflankers, and fanatical zealots. These units are your difference-makers, capable of turning the tide of battle with their specialized roles and superior capabilities.
Greatswords: Elite Infantry, Unwavering Devotion
Greatswords are the elite infantry of the Empire, and frankly, guys, they are absolutely fantastic for adding serious killing power to your 2K Empire list. These guys are heavily armored, wield massive two-handed swords, and boast a higher Weapon Skill and Strength than your regular state troops. What makes them truly special, though, is their Stubborn rule, which means they use their unmodified Leadership for break tests. This makes them incredibly resilient, able to hold their ground even when facing terrifying opponents. A unit of Greatswords with a supporting character, like a Captain or a Warrior Priest, becomes a nigh-unbreakable anvil that can absorb incredible punishment and dish out punishing blows in return. They excel at anchoring a flank, holding a crucial objective, or leading the charge against an enemy's toughest units. Positioning is key; you want them to engage the enemy's most dangerous combat blocks where their high initiative and raw damage output can shine. While they're not cheap, the investment in a unit of Greatswords often pays dividends by creating a devastating focal point in your battle line. They are the shock troops that your Empire army relies on when the going gets tough, embodying the unwavering resolve of the Empire's finest warriors. With their distinctive two-handed swords and impressive armor, they stand as a testament to the might and discipline of the Empire, ready to carve a path through any foe.
Knights: The Thunderous Charge of the Empire
For sheer shock cavalry power, look no further than the Knights of the Empire. Whether you're talking about the formidable Reiksguard Knights or the truly elite Inner Circle Knights, these units are designed to deliver a devastating charge that can smash through enemy lines. They are fast, heavily armored, and hit like a train, making them an essential hammer in many 2K Empire lists. The key with Knights is to protect them until the opportune moment, then unleash their full potential into a flank or a vulnerable enemy unit. A successful knight charge can break even the toughest units, causing significant casualties and forcing crucial morale checks. Reiksguard Knights are a fantastic balance of cost and power, offering a great punch for their points. Inner Circle Knights, while more expensive, are even deadlier, boasting superior combat stats and often an additional Special Save. When deciding on Knights for your Empire army, consider how many you want and what role they'll play. Are they a single, decisive hammer, or a pair of flanking units threatening both sides of the board? Remember, a general with Knights riding alongside them can make an already powerful unit even more terrifying. These guys bring speed and raw power that other units simply can't match, providing that vital mobility and hard-hitting capability that can shatter an opponent's battle plan. They are the embodiment of martial prowess, striking with precision and overwhelming force, and are an invaluable asset to any Empire general seeking glorious victory.
Flagellants, Outriders, and Pistoliers: Adding Flavor and Flexibility
Beyond the disciplined ranks of Greatswords and Knights, the Empire's special choices offer a wealth of unique units that can add incredible flexibility and tactical depth to your 2K Empire list. Let's talk about some of these fanatical and swift options. Flagellants are perhaps one of the most unique units in the Empire army. These self-mutilating zealots are unbreakable, meaning they will never flee combat. While their stats aren't stellar, their sheer tenacity and the Unbreakable rule make them a fantastic tarpit or a unit to hold up a truly dangerous enemy monster or character. They are unpredictable, chaotic, and can grind down opponents through sheer attrition, often outlasting units that are statistically superior. They excel at tying up resources and distracting the enemy, allowing your more valuable units to maneuver into position. Then we have the fast-moving skirmishers: Outriders and Pistoliers. These guys are your flanking units and harassment specialists. Pistoliers are fast cavalry with multiple shots at close range, perfect for picking off skirmishers, redirecting enemy units, or delivering a flurry of shots into an exposed flank. They are incredibly annoying for your opponent and can draw valuable attention away from your main force. Outriders, on the other hand, bring more precise shooting with their repeating handguns, making them excellent at targeting specific threats from a distance. They are great for taking out enemy war machine crews or picking off supporting characters. Both units thrive on their mobility, using hit-and-run tactics to whittle down the enemy and control the flow of battle. Integrating these units into your Empire list allows for creative strategies, from overwhelming the enemy with fanatical charges to outmaneuvering them with swift ranged attacks. They offer that crucial element of surprise and disruption that can throw even the most seasoned opponent off balance, adding layers of tactical complexity to your Empire army. Guys, never underestimate the power of these specialized units to turn a disadvantage into a winning strategy.
Rare Units: The Game Changers for Your Empire Army
Now, guys, we're getting into the really exciting stuff – the Rare Units for your 2K Empire list. These are the big guns, the monstrous machines, and the awe-inspiring creatures that can truly turn the tide of battle and define your Empire army's unique personality. Choosing your rare slots wisely can be the difference between a good list and an unbeatable list.
War Machines: Artillery Superiority and Devastation
The Empire is renowned for its artillery superiority, and your 2K Empire list would be incomplete without some truly devastating war machines. You've got options, each serving a different purpose. The Great Cannon is your go-to for monster hunting and tank busting. Its high Strength and multiple wounds make it perfect for cracking open enemy monsters, chariots, or even other war machines. A well-placed cannonball can obliterate a key enemy piece, changing the entire dynamic of the game. Then there's the Mortar, a truly versatile piece that excels at raining down death on horde units and lightly armored infantry. Its template weapon ignores line of sight and can cause a surprising amount of damage to massed ranks of troops. It's fantastic for thinning out those annoying goblin or skaven hordes before they even reach your lines. For sheer volume of fire, the Hellblaster Volley Gun is unmatched. This multi-barrelled monstrosity can unleash a torrent of shots, absolutely shredding anything caught in its arc, especially if it's unarmored. It's a riskier choice due to its 'Gets Hot!' rule, but when it fires, it truly delivers. Finally, the Helstorm Rocket Battery offers an artillery piece that can bombard a wide area with multiple rockets, perfect for disrupting multiple units or causing chaos in the enemy's formation. When building your Empire list, consider what threats you anticipate. Do you need monster killing power, horde clearing, or area denial? A balanced artillery contingent provides answers to multiple threats, ensuring your Empire army has the firepower to control the battlefield from afar. These siege weapons are invaluable assets, consistently punching above their weight class and ensuring your opponent is always wary of your backline's destructive potential. Truly, a 2K Empire list without well-chosen war machines is missing a massive strategic advantage.
Steam Tank: The Indestructible Behemoth
Ah, the Steam Tank. Guys, this unit is an absolute icon of the Empire and a true game changer for any 2K Empire list. This lumbering, armored behemoth is, for all intents and purposes, a moving fortress. It’s incredibly tough, boasts a formidable array of attacks (including a cannon and steam gun), and causes terror. What makes it truly terrifying is its sheer resilience and ability to crush almost anything in its path. Charging with a Steam Tank is like unleashing a freight train on your opponent’s battle line; it can break units, cause massive casualties, and generally sow panic. It acts as a fantastic distraction unit, drawing immense fire from your opponent, which in turn frees up your other forces to advance relatively unmolested. You can use it to block crucial pathways, absorb charges meant for your state troops, or simply drive it directly into the enemy's strongest unit and watch the carnage unfold. While expensive, the Steam Tank often earns its points back by creating so much disruption and acting as a powerful magnet for enemy attacks. Protecting it from concentrated magical attacks or overwhelming close combat units is important, but often its sheer toughness makes this a difficult task for your opponent. Incorporating a Steam Tank into your Empire army adds a completely different dimension to your strategy, offering a nearly indestructible focal point that demands respect and careful planning from your adversary. It truly is a centerpiece, drawing all eyes and embodying the engineering might of the Empire, a must-have for generals looking to add an unforgettable element to their 2K Empire list.
Griffons and Demigryph Knights: Monstrous Might and Elite Cavalry
For those looking to add a touch of monstrous might or even more elite cavalry to their 2K Empire list, Griffons and Demigryph Knights are fantastic rare choices. A General on Griffon is not only an incredibly powerful combatant, capable of carving through enemy units, but also provides a mobile Leadership bubble wherever he goes. The sheer stat line and special rules of a Griffon make it a truly terrifying presence on the battlefield, perfect for hunting enemy characters, monsters, or breaking stubborn units. It's a high-risk, high-reward choice, as a lone Griffon can be vulnerable to concentrated ranged attacks or magical damage, but its impact when it hits is undeniable. Demigryph Knights, on the other hand, are the Empire's elite monstrous cavalry. These guys are the pinnacle of shock cavalry, boasting incredible stats, heavy armor, and a devastating charge. They combine the raw power of a monster with the tactical flexibility of cavalry, making them excellent for smashing flanks, punching through strong enemy units, or protecting your own vulnerable assets. A unit of Demigryph Knights can act as an independent hammer unit, capable of tackling almost any foe and emerging victorious. While they are very expensive, their ability to soak up damage and dish out incredible punishment makes them worth every point in the right Empire list. Choosing between a Griffon and Demigryph Knights often comes down to whether you want a single, powerful character platform or a smaller unit of elite, hard-hitting cavalry. Both options significantly boost your Empire army's combat prowess and intimidation factor, ensuring your opponent knows they are facing a truly formidable foe. Guys, these units are your ultimate shock troops, designed to break the toughest enemy lines and lead your Empire to glorious victory.
Characters: Leading Your Empire to Victory and Unleashing Magic
No 2K Empire list is complete without its characters, the heroes and powerful spellcasters who lead your troops, inspire their courage, and unleash devastating magic upon your foes. These guys are not just stat sticks; they are the heart and soul of your Empire army, providing crucial buffs, combat prowess, and tactical flexibility. Choosing the right characters for your list is paramount to success.
Generals and Priests: Inspiring Leadership and Divine Fury
Your General is the most important character in your Empire army, providing the crucial Leadership bubble that your state troops rely on for morale. Options for your General are diverse: A Grand Master provides a combat powerhouse, especially when mounted on a Demigryph or a Griffon, leading your elite cavalry to glory. An Arch Lector or Warrior Priest brings divine fury to the battlefield, capable of inspiring units with powerful Prayers and being surprisingly tough in close combat, especially when surrounded by state troops. A simple Captain can be a cost-effective choice, allowing you to save points for other units while still providing a respectable combat presence and a decent Leadership score. The choice of General often dictates a significant portion of your 2K Empire list's playstyle. Do you want a personal bodyguard for your General, or do you want him to be a mobile, aggressive leader? Furthermore, Warrior Priests are absolute gems for an Empire list. Their Litanies can make units immune to psychology, Stubborn, or even grant extra attacks, turning a humble unit of Spearmen into a resilient anvil that can hold against almost anything. They are crucial for bolstering your infantry blocks and making them incredibly resilient. Guys, remember that good leadership and timely divine intervention can win games, so invest wisely in the characters who will guide your Empire to victory. Their presence alone can sway the morale of an entire regiment, making them indispensable in any Empire list aiming for strategic dominance.
Wizards: Harnessing the Winds of Magic for the Empire
For magic phase dominance, the Wizards of the Empire are truly second to none. The Empire has access to all eight Lores of Magic, making its magical capabilities incredibly versatile and adaptable to any situation. Choosing your Wizards and their Lores is one of the most critical decisions in building your 2K Empire list. Do you want devastating offensive power from Bright Magic (fireballs!) or Celestial Magic (comets!)? Or perhaps powerful defensive buffs and healing from Light Magic (Banishment, Pha's Protection) and Jade Magic (Regrowth, Flesh to Stone)? Amethyst Magic is fantastic for character sniping, while Gold Magic can debuff enemy armor and buff your own. Grey Magic offers trickery and disruption, and Lore of Beasts can buff your monstrous units or even your general. You can opt for a single Level 4 Archmage to be your magical anchor, capable of casting multiple powerful spells, or bring multiple lower-level Wizards (Level 1 or 2) to increase your casting dice and access a wider array of spells from different lores. The key is to select Lores that complement your army's strengths and address potential weaknesses. For example, if you're running a gunline Empire list, Celestial Magic can soften targets for your artillery, while Light Magic can protect your valuable war machines. If you have many cavalry, Lore of Beasts can make them even deadlier. Protecting your Wizards is also crucial; embed them in state troop units or keep them safe behind your lines. A well-played magic phase can cripple an opponent, turn a losing combat into a winning one, or simply provide the crucial support your Empire army needs to secure victory. Guys, never underestimate the power of a finely tuned magic phase to absolutely dominate the battlefield, ensuring your 2K Empire list has answers for both the mundane and the magical threats. These Wizards are the arcane heart of your army, capable of tipping the scales of fate with their potent spells.
Unit Champions, Musicians, and Standard Bearers: Essential Upgrades
While often overlooked in favor of flashier units, the humble Unit Champions, Musicians, and Standard Bearers are absolutely essential upgrades for maximizing the efficiency and combat prowess of your Empire units. These affordable additions can have a disproportionately large impact on your 2K Empire list's performance. A Unit Champion allows your unit to issue or accept challenges, protecting your more valuable characters from being challenged or allowing your champion to tie up an enemy character. They also typically have an extra attack, making them a small but welcome boost to offensive output. Musicians are incredibly important for maneuverability and rally tests. They allow your unit to reform and march move more efficiently, crucial for positioning and reacting to enemy threats. More importantly, they provide a +1 bonus to rally tests, which can mean the difference between a unit holding the line or fleeing the battlefield. Finally, Standard Bearers are arguably the most vital upgrade for any combat unit. They provide a +1 bonus to combat resolution, a critical factor in winning combats and causing units to break. For your state troops, Greatswords, and Knights, a Standard Bearer is a non-negotiable upgrade. Special standards, like the Battle Standard Bearer with a magical banner (e.g., Banner of the Eternal Flame or Standard of Discipline), can provide even more significant buffs to your entire army, making your Battle Standard Bearer character an incredibly valuable asset. Investing a small amount of points in these command upgrades ensures that your units perform at their peak, maintaining cohesion, morale, and combat effectiveness, which is absolutely crucial for any Empire army aiming for success. Guys, don't skimp on these upgrades; they are the grease that makes your entire war machine run smoothly, bolstering the backbone of your 2K Empire list.
Putting It All Together: Sample 2K Empire List Concepts
Alright, guys, we've talked about all the individual pieces, but now it's time to see how we can combine them into cohesive and powerful 2K Empire lists. The beauty of the Empire is its sheer flexibility, allowing for a multitude of playstyles. While I won't write full lists here (that's for you to customize!), I'll outline a few conceptual approaches that highlight different strengths.
The Gunline Empire: Rain Fire and Steel
If you love the idea of artillery superiority and mowing down opponents from afar, the Gunline Empire is your go-to. This Empire list focuses heavily on ranged firepower. You'll want multiple war machines: a Great Cannon for monster/tank busting, a Mortar for horde clearing, and perhaps a Hellblaster Volley Gun for concentrated anti-infantry fire. Your core will consist of large blocks of Handgunners or Crossbowmen, maybe two or three units, positioned to provide overlapping fields of fire. These missile troops will be screened by relatively small, stubborn blocks of Spearmen or Swordsmen to absorb charges. Characters would include a General (perhaps an Arch Lector for some divine buffs) and Wizards specializing in Celestial Magic (for comets and range) or Light Magic (for protection). Outriders can be excellent for harassing flanks and redirecting charges. The strategy is simple: form an unyielding firing line, soften up the enemy with artillery, and then blast them to pieces as they advance. This 2K Empire list excels against slow, melee-focused armies but needs careful positioning to avoid getting outflanked.
The Cavalry Hammer: Swift and Decisive Strikes
For those who prefer the thunder of hooves and devastating charges, the Cavalry Hammer Empire list is a blast. This approach emphasizes speed and brutal close combat. You'd build around a strong contingent of Knights: multiple units of Reiksguard, and perhaps a unit of elite Inner Circle Knights or Demigryph Knights. Your General would ideally be a Grand Master or a Captain mounted on a powerful steed (or even a Griffon!) to lead the charge. Your core infantry would be present, but perhaps smaller units of Halberdiers or Swordsmen acting as anvils to pin the enemy while your cavalry delivers the hammer blow. Pistoliers and Outriders are fantastic here for harassing flanks and setting up charges. Lore of Beasts Wizards can buff your cavalry even further. The goal is to use your speed to maneuver, draw the enemy out, and then unleash devastating charges into their flanks or weak points. This 2K Empire list is incredibly aggressive and can overwhelm opponents quickly, but requires careful management of your valuable cavalry units.
The Balanced All-Rounder: Versatility is King
The Balanced All-Rounder is arguably the most common and often the most forgiving Empire list strategy. This approach embraces the Empire's core strength: versatility. You'll have a mix of everything: a solid core of Spearmen and Halberdiers, some reliable missile troops (Handgunners), a strong unit of Greatswords for combat punch, and at least one unit of Knights for shock. Your rare slots might include a Great Cannon for monster threats and a Steam Tank for pure intimidation and disruption. Wizards could be a Level 4 from a versatile lore like Light or Celestial, or two Level 2s from different lores to cover more bases. Your General can be tailored to support your preferred combat style. The strategy here is to have an answer for almost any threat. You can adapt to your opponent's army, relying on different parts of your force as needed. This 2K Empire list is robust, flexible, and provides a great learning platform for new generals while offering depth for experienced players. It's about having options and executing a well-rounded plan, ensuring your Empire army is always ready for whatever the battlefield throws its way.
Final Thoughts: Forge Your Legacy, Generals!
Alright, guys, we've covered a ton of ground on how to build an ultimate 2K Empire list that can truly conquer the battlefield! From the disciplined ranks of your state troops to the thunderous charges of your Knights and the earth-shattering power of your war machines, the Empire of Man offers an unparalleled array of tactical options. The key takeaway here, above all else, is experimentation. Don't be afraid to try different units, different magic lores, and different army compositions. The best 2K Empire list isn't necessarily the one that wins every single game, but the one you enjoy playing the most, the one that perfectly fits your personal playstyle, and the one that brings you the most satisfaction. Each battle is a learning experience, a chance to refine your strategies and discover new synergies within your Empire army. So, gather your miniatures, roll those dice, and lead your Empire of Man to glorious victories! May your cannonballs always hit their mark, your charges always break the enemy, and your Wizards always manifest their most devastating spells. Go forth, generals, and forge a legacy for the Empire that will be sung about for ages to come! Remember, the Empire stands strong, and with your strategic genius, it will surely prevail. This guide is just the beginning; the real journey to mastery starts on the tabletop. Enjoy the process of crafting and commanding your unforgettable 2K Empire list!