Old World Almanack – Enhance your Grand Cathay collection with the new reinforcements

With the arrival of three new units and a new character, the armies of Grand Cathay are set to become far more diverse. Whilst the previous wave of releases focussed on the elite warriors of the Jade Host, spectacular centrepiece models, and imposing characters, this wave introduces the humble Peasant Levy, Crane Gunner Teams, Iron Hail Gunners, and powerful Wizards in the form of Astromancers of the Celestial Court.

The Peasant Levy is a diverse kit. Representing the huge regiments raised from the towns and villages of Grand Cathay in times of need, it offers players the option to field units armed for combat that wield deadly long spears, or units armed with warbows for some much-needed firepower. Whilst the Cathayan peasants themselves are not the most potent of warriors when compared to members of the Jade Host, with lower Weapon Skill and Leadership, they more than make up for this when fielded in numbers. Lacking the special rules that make Jade Warriors so deadly, Peasant Levy rely on their numbers in combat. Combined with their unique long spears, weapons that allow them to Strike First in combat and Fight in Extra Rank, they are a surprisingly durable unit, able to stand their ground against the toughest of enemies.

When armed with warbows, Peasant Levy can unleash withering volleys of arrows upon the foe, or they can make use of the unit’s option to replace Close Order with Skirmishers, and harass the enemy with their bow-fire.

Crane Gunner Teams and Iron Hail Gunners make use of more advanced gunpowder weapons. These models represent soldiers in the standing armies of Nan-Gau and other cities, armed for battle by the artificer houses of Grand Cathay.

Crane Gunner Teams bear long ranged and powerful crane guns. With a Strength of 6, an AP of -2, and Armour Bane (2), these guns can punch a large hole through even the heaviest of armour. Protected behind their unique tower shields, the gunners themselves have a 3+ save against any attacks that originate from within their front arc.