: Powerful two-handed swordsmen unique to the Celts. They lack shields but can wreck almost any infantry or spear unit in a direct melee.
Unlike the base game, many barbarian factions now have access to advanced formations like the , which provides a massive defensive boost against frontal attacks.
: Unique to the Franks, these axemen throw heavy axes before charging, dealing significant morale and physical damage.
: Found in the Alemanni and Celtic rosters. They are small in number but high in damage, capable of ripping through lines once they go into a trance.
: An elite upgrade to Comitatenses. These soldiers throw heavy lead-weighted darts ( plumbatae ) with greater range and lethality than standard javelins.
In Rome: Total War – Barbarian Invasion , the unit rosters reflect a world in transition. The classic Roman legion has evolved into defensive border guards and elite field armies, while barbarian factions range from traditional infantry-heavy warbands to terrifying nomadic horse-archer hordes.
: Low-cost border guards. While weak in a direct fight, they provide massive public order bonuses and can pin down enemy units due to high defensive stats.
: Top-tier heavy infantry for the Saxons. They are extremely durable and serve as the faction's primary "hammer".
: To counter Eastern threats like the Sassanids, Rome adopted heavily armored cavalry. Clibinarii (Sassanid/Eastern) are particularly formidable, featuring armor for both horse and rider that makes them nearly impervious to arrows.
Both the Eastern and Western Roman Empires have moved away from the early Republic's "Marian" style. Their strength lies in heavy defensive infantry and specialized missile troops.
