Necromunda: Ash Wastes Nomads Get A Special ‘Ride By’ Attack
If you were wondering how those bug riding Nomads were going to take on the engines of the Cargo-8 Ridgehauler the answer is “Ride By” Attacks.
The Ash Waste Nomads are a new faction being introduced to the world of Necromunda. They are one folks who live in the Ash Wastes and have adapted to the harsh way of life. Part of their culture involves teaming up with a new breed of creature also being introduced — the Dustback Helamintes.
With Necromunda: Ash Wastes bringing Vehicular Combat to the game, you might be wondering how exactly will these insect riding Nomads be able to deal with their armored foes. But don’t worry because they have some tricks of their own.
“While most gangs have access to garages full of vehicles that come with their own profiles and upgrades, Dustback Helamites work as wargear under the rules. They provide the Mounted condition, and for more mobility, they give their riders a move of 8” and the Mighty Leap skill. Those legs ain’t just for show.
While most gangs have access to garages full of vehicles that come with their own profiles and upgrades, Dustback Helamites work as wargear under the rules. They provide the Mounted condition, and for more mobility, they give their riders a move of 8” and the Mighty Leap skill. Those legs ain’t just for show.”
It’s interesting that GW mentioned Dirt Bikes in particular. Anyhow, let’s talk about Ride By in particular. This is a special move/attack ability that allows mounted models to get a swing at a target. The move does take you within Long range or 1″ of a single model and it allows for a single close combat attack. There is some risk involved however. The target model DOES get to make a Reaction attack and if the hit is successful, the distance moved is used to determine the strength of the hit!
So, if you’re using the max move of a Helamite which is 8″, then that would translate to a Strength 5, AP 1, 1 Damage hit. Ouch. Not the worst hit, but it will make the Nomad feel it. So now you might be thinking “Well, that’s fine and all…but then why would I use this ability?!” Good question. The Nomads have a weapon more suited to the Ride By.
“As for the Helamite-riding Nomads, those trusty chain lances have everything you need from a melee weapon designed to skewer enemies from the back of a giant flea – including a Long Range characteristic of 2” and the Lance keyword. This lets them Ride By from 2”, enough to dodge most reaction attacks. “
That’s right! Those chain lances have a 2″ range which means they get to use the Ride By safely out of range of reprisals. And they have a gnarly profile with a +2 bonus to strength, AP -2, and 2 Damage! That should help make a dent in most gangers for sure. It’s also got a shot a punching through some armored transports, too.
Your first crack at getting these Helamites is in the upcoming Necromund: Ash Wastes. Get ready to play in a whole new sandbox!
Chittering Chargers!
