Quote: (Irisado @ Nov. 14 2009, 21:23 )
As for linking, there was some debate among those of us working on a revised Eldar Codex for fifth edition in 40K about removing that, but in the end we voted for it to stay, at least for first reading, so it could be interesting to reconsider re-instating that in some way, although how it would work within the current rules, I wouldn't like to say, as I'm not experienced enough to start making up rules for Epic under the current system.
As you are probably aware, there is a strong aversion to adding 'special rules' to the E:A, irrespective of whether they add flavour to the game. In this case I believe the original stats simulate the effect of 'linking weapons' thus avoiding the need for a 'Special rule'.
The thinking goes something like this:-
1) Start with the principle that the Fire Prism cannon is better at shooting than Falcon pulse laser, so AT3+ (rather than the proposed AT2+).
2) Assume that linking 4-5 units together will both increase the power and range, though it will also reduce the number of targets that are actually damaged. So the range increases to 75cm while the number of shots reduces to 3.
3) 3x shots at 3+ yields an average of 2.0 hits which is similar to 4-5x shots at 4+ (2.0 - 2.5 hits).
So in statistical terms, 'linking weapons' is similar to reducing the firepower from AT3+ to AT4+ while at the same time allowing for changes in formation size.
Finally, AT4+ at 75cm provides a more precise niche to the Fire Prism than AT3+ at 60cm because the additional range gives the formation more tactical flexibility. However, AT2+ makes the unit overpowered at any range as it encroaches on the capabilities of the Scorpion, and likewise 6x Fire Prisms provides too much anti-RA firepower (I can hear the Marines anguish as formations of terminators are wiped out by these things).
So please lets just keep the original 75cm range and AT4+ stats whilst increasing the formation size either allowing 3-5 units, or just a flat 5x unit for 300 points.
