How to use phalanx in Total War: Arena? Total War Arena Guide & Walkthrough

Last update: 28 February 2018

Hoplite phalanx is a formation you will probably quickly encounter in the game. However, it might not be clear how it actually works at the beginning stage of the game. Only two units are using this formation: Pikemen and Hoplites. The units place their pikes/spears in such way that they can stop the enemy infantry and cavalry assault. In addition to that, the units in this formation can move forward "forcefully" or very slowly, where the back row of the formation pushes forward every few seconds.

What a phalanx can do:

1. It can effectively stop each charge.
2. It might not allow the opponent to escape from melee combat with no loses.
3. It enables spearmen to face and even gain an advantage over swordsmen.
4. It is perfect for protecting ranged units and passages and entrances to the base.

Units in phalanx are almost completely unprotected from the back. The key to defeating them in 1 on 1 battle (1 swordsmen squad versus 1 spearmen squad in phalanx) is by surrounding them. The phalanx rotates very slowly and your task when leading it is to rotate in such way that you are always turned frontally towards the opponent.

1. A phalanx consisting of Pikemen can tire quickly. If the bar above the unit icon reaches the red bar, order the units to make a few steps back and rest. Don't let this enable the opponent to surround you.
2. A phalanx consisting of Hoplites (Greek's units) is resistant to tiring. This phalanx can constantly move forward and crush the enemy. However, these units are much weaker and outside the phalanx they are an easy target.

Advice 1: if someone is trying to surround you while you're in a phalanx, deactivate the formation. Only then you can defend from each side and remain on the battlefield longer.

Advice 2: if the enemy deactivated a phalanx, charge at him. You have 10 seconds before he can form a new phalanx. If his formation is broken at this point, the phalanx created by chaotically scattered units will be ineffective.