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Total War: Rome II / Factions & leaders

Total War: Rome II factions & leaders guide

Compare the roles and limitations of Total War: Rome II forces.

Edition covered

Rome II (2013) using the current Emperor Edition PC release. Emperor Edition includes the later Imperator Augustus campaign; this guide focuses on the Grand Campaign and shared systems. DLC factions and campaigns are separate.

5 characters · one picture per entry · open a picture for full size.

Factions & leaders

Carthage in Total War: Rome II
Grand Campaign faction

Carthage

Broad recruitment and mercenary options require careful upkeep planning.

Reference

Macedon in Total War: Rome II
Grand Campaign faction

Macedon

Pike formations reward protected flanks and suitable terrain.

Reference

Iceni in Total War: Rome II
Grand Campaign faction

Iceni

Tribal forces reward coordinated attacks and morale awareness.

Reference

Egypt in Total War: Rome II
Grand Campaign faction

Egypt

Combines Hellenistic and regional military options.

Reference

General in Total War: Rome II
Army leader

General

Commands an army and develops skills through campaigning.

Reference

More factions & leaders

  • Rome — Grand Campaign faction · Strong infantry tradition with supporting cavalry and missile options.

Quick notes

  • Compare army styles rather than a universal ranking. Rome, Carthage, Macedon, Iceni and Egypt have different recruitment options and starting positions.
  • Recruit complementary unit roles. An infantry line needs missile support and a way to protect its flanks.
  • Develop generals with the army in mind. Generals gain experience and skills during campaigning.
  • Confirm faction availability. Some factions are unlocked through separate culture packs or campaigns.

Recruit complementary unit roles

Battlefield role directory
RoleStrengthAvoid
Sword infantrySustained close combatUnsupported approach under missiles
Spears or pikesHolding against frontal pressureExposed flanks and rear
Missile troopsDamage before meleeBeing caught by cavalry
CavalryFlanks, pursuit and disruptionFrontal charge into prepared anti-cavalry
References
Guide references
ReferenceWebsite
Publisher game and edition listingstore.steampowered.com
Original publisher manualshared.fastly.steamstatic.com