Age of Empires III counters: infantry, cavalry and artillery
Read broad original-game matchups and keep valuable siege units protected.
Edition covered
The original 2005 PC game with eight base European civilizations and its Blood, Ice and Steel campaign. Publisher pictures are from the Complete Collection and show Asian Dynasties settings. Definitive Edition balancing, names and added civilizations are separate.
Read the unit class
Appearance can mislead: ranged cavalry and melee cavalry serve different purposes. Inspect the unit information and attack bonuses before committing an entire army to a matchup.
| Threat | Useful response | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Melee cavalry | Anti-cavalry infantry or ranged cavalry | Keep counters near the protected units |
| Heavy infantry | Appropriate light ranged infantry | Protect from melee cavalry |
| Light ranged infantry | Melee cavalry | Watch for anti-cavalry support |
| Artillery | Fast cavalry or counter-artillery | Avoid unprotected approaches |
| Buildings | Artillery or strong siege attacks | Escort against defenders |
Combine complementary units
Heavy infantry can protect against cavalry while ranged support attacks infantry. The exact choice depends on civilization and age. Support the army's weaknesses rather than duplicating its strengths.
| Check | Question | Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | Can cavalry reach the back line? | Position anti-cavalry support |
| Range | Are troops firing or walking? | Improve spacing and targets |
| Production | Can losses be replaced? | Maintain resource income |
| Artillery | Are guns deployed safely? | Clear space and protect them |
| Retreat | Is there a route out? | Avoid fighting while surrounded |
Screen artillery
Artillery needs space to deploy and protection from fast attackers. Move the screen with the guns. Do not leave artillery behind when the main army retreats.
Keep scouting production
An opponent can change composition while you react. Watch reinforcements rather than replacing the whole army after one unusual encounter. Maintain the economy that funds counter units.
An opponent can change composition while you react. Watch reinforcements rather than replacing the whole army after one unusual encounter. Maintain the economy that funds counter units.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Age of Empires III publisher listing | store.steampowered.com |
| Microsoft original game manual, archived copy | microsoft.manymanuals.com |