Melee Units

Master Civilization VII's early game by strategically deploying powerful Melee Units. Learn their strengths for city capture and battlefield domination.

Melee units form the backbone of most armies in Civilization VII, designed for close-quarters combat and capturing enemy cities. They are typically the first military units you can produce and are essential for early expansion, defense, and offensive campaigns.

Melee units excel at engaging enemy units directly on the battlefield and are the only unit type capable of capturing cities. Their combat strength varies significantly based on their era and technological advancements. Early game melee units like the Warrior and the Swordsman are crucial for clearing barbarian camps, defending your territory, and potentially taking down weaker neighboring civilizations. As the game progresses, units like the Legion, Pikeman, and eventually the Infantry and Modern Armor become increasingly powerful, capable of breaking through fortified enemy lines.

Key characteristics of Melee units include:

• Movement: Typically have 2 movement points, allowing them to traverse the map at a steady pace. Some promotions or unique abilities can increase this.
• Combat Strength: Their primary offensive and defensive rating. This is influenced by technology, policies, and promotions.
• Production Cost: Generally have moderate production costs, making them accessible for building armies.
• Upkeep: Require a small amount of Gold per turn for upkeep.
• City Capture: The only unit type that can capture enemy cities.

When using Melee units effectively, consider the following:

• Formation: Melee units are most effective when used in conjunction with other unit types. Ranged units can soften up targets before your melee units engage, and support units can provide buffs or healing.
• Flanking: Attacking an enemy unit that is already engaged with another of your units grants combat bonuses.
• Promotions: Melee units gain experience from combat, allowing them to earn promotions. These can significantly enhance their combat strength, movement, or provide special abilities like healing after combat or increased defense against ranged attacks.
• City Sieges: To capture a city, a melee unit must be adjacent to it for several turns, reducing its defense and eventually allowing for capture. Ensure you have enough melee units to sustain a siege and defend against counter-attacks.
• Terrain: Melee units generally perform better on open terrain. Forests and hills can provide defensive bonuses to the defender, so be mindful of this when planning attacks.

The strategic deployment of Melee units is vital throughout the game. From securing your initial borders to launching decisive invasions, mastering their strengths and weaknesses will be a cornerstone of your military success in Civilization VII.