dptdexys wrote:
I agree with this, I think giving Pulsars 3 shots would be a step backwards.
The Phantom with 2 Pulsars requires a different style of play and is more suited to a defensive/cautious type of player whilst the Fist is more suited to an aggressive/engage heavy style of play. Just because most play aggressive/engage heavy and prefer the Fist (as it is usually more effective in this style) it doesn't mean the Pulsar has to have a boost .
Concur. The twin pulsar fits the Titan into a specific type of role which is always going to be less useful than a more flexible, multipurpose one. I've used the Phantom quite extensively and can say quite confidently that it is a very good titan. It's got more range than the Warlock and it's long range TK is useful. The Warlock mainly tends to see play time at higher points levels and it's fully worth the extra 100 pts, being able to retain on a 1+ and allowing 2 retains.
I always prefer the PF Phantom because I play an aggressive style and favour flexibility over generalisation. If you were to improve the Pulsar however (Even though I don't feel it needs it) I'd vote for 2x 2+, as this allows it to double, fire 4 x 3+ TK shots + the missiles and then still lend support to an engagement with 6 x 3+ FF shots. 3x 2+ would be far too good.
Regarding Phantoms vs Warlocks:
If the standard tournament list was 3500pts you'd see a lot more Phantoms - it'd certainly be a feature in my army list. As it is, it's 3000 pts and Eldar tend to need the activation advantage so, Titans aren't that common. Taking a big Titan at 3000pts tends to concentrate your entire list around utilising the titan making it uber important, hence people tend to find the extra 100pts for the Warlock because it's more reliable. With the jump up to 4000pts, it's often the only real time you'll get the opportunity to include a Titan in an effective army list (I'm always going to take a Warlock at 4000pts cos I like me big toys).
In short, the lack of Phantoms is mainly due to the metagame and the standard tourny points limits, not due to any deficiency with the Titan itself.