How to Dominate with Abyssal Dwarfs: Clash of Kings 2024 Edition

Army Name: Abyssal Dwarfs
Total Units: 32
Units with Crushing Strength ≥ 1: 19
Units with Piercing ≥ 1: 8
Avg Points: 152.3
Avg Defense: 4.6
Avg Melee: 3.3
Avg Speed: 5.8
Unique Keywords (count): 27
Top Keywords: Vicious (26), Crushing Strength (19), Ordered March (10), Regeneration (8), Thunderous Charge (7)

Note: This summary only includes non-individual units.

Most Cost-Effective Units

Understanding the Table

Elo Ratings and Cost-Effectiveness:
You can read about how I calculated this here. The table above is derived from extensive analysis, where 1.25 million combat simulations were conducted to determine Elo ratings for each unit. These ratings help assess the performance of units in combat. Two key metrics are used to understand cost-effectiveness:

• Elo per Point: This metric evaluates the efficiency of each unit by dividing its Elo rating by its point cost. It offers insight into the unit's performance in relation to its cost.
• Elo Difference: Derived from a regression model, this metric indicates the difference between the unit’s actual Elo and its expected performance based on cost and size. Positive values indicate better-than-expected performance, while negative values suggest underperformance.

Combined Cost-Effectiveness:
To synthesize these insights, both Elo per Point and Elo Difference metrics are standardized and combined. A weighted formula is applied (60% to Elo per Point and 40% to Elo Difference) to compute the 'Combined Cost-Effectiveness'. This balanced metric reflects both cost and expected performance.

Combat Simulation Insights:
Additionally, each unit's capability to eliminate an enemy in a single turn was tested through 100 simulations against two standard unit profiles - one representing the median (Defense 4, Nerve 13/15) and the other the 75th percentile (Defense 5, Nerve 16/18) of units in Kings of War. These simulations provide an estimate of a unit's potential to decisively impact a battle in one turn.

This analysis aims to offer a comprehensive perspective on the units' effectiveness, blending cost, performance, and combat potential.

Takeaways

The Abyssal Dwarfs have seen significant enhancements in the Clash of Kings 2024 update, marking their ascendancy in the power rankings. Renowned for their resilience, these Dwarfs, while traditionally slow, have gained an edge in scenario play with the new Ordered March ability. This, coupled with their inherently high defense, equips them to be formidable contenders on the battlefield.

• Abyssal Halfbreeds now stand out as more than just solid units; they've become exceptional. With stats like a 15/17 nerve, 5+ regeneration, and a swift speed of 8 for only 190 points, they offer incredible value. Their ability to hit on 3s in combat makes them deadly opponents. While effective as troops for blocking, Abyssal Halfbreeds truly shine in regiment format, delivering a powerful mix of speed, durability, and offensive might.
• Decimators have seen a notable improvement with their range extending from 12" to 14", greatly enhancing their utility on the battlefield. This increase allows them to maintain a threat range up to 18", positioning them competitively against other ranged units. Equipped with 25 attacks, piercing(1), and vicious(ranged) abilities, plus solid melee skills, Decimators have become adaptable powerhouses. Pairing them with the blessing of the gods often is a strategy to boost their effectiveness in combat.
• Obsidian Golems, particularly in the horde, combine formidable defense (def 6) with a high volume of surgable attacks. When augmented by healing, these units turn into enduring challenges for adversaries, who must devise specific tactics for dealing with them.
• The Hellfane secures its place as the game's premier titan, especially after its recent enhancement to unit strength 2. It continues to be an essential choice, providing unmatched battlefield dominance and efficiency for its points cost.

Historical Context and New Developments

Historically, the Abyssal Dwarfs have been known for their potent war engines. While their impact has diminished over time, the katsuchan rocket launcher, with its four attacks, is worth exploring for its potential utility in the current meta.

Concluding Thoughts

The Abyssal Dwarfs, once a top faction in the late 2nd edition, are poised for a significant comeback in the late 3rd edition. Their array of buffs and the introduction of new tactics and units position them as a formidable force on the battlefield. The nuanced changes, particularly in unit dynamics and the incorporation of Ordered March, open new strategic avenues for players to explore. As we move forward, it will be intriguing to observe how these developments influence the meta and the creative strategies players adopt to harness the full potential of the Abyssal Dwarfs.

For Abyssal Dwarf battle reports under the new rules, check out:
051 Herd vs Abyssal Dwarfs

050 Herd vs Abyssal Dwarfs

046 Undead vs Abyssal Dwarfs

And if you'd like to follow the fantastic Andy2d6 through a tournament, I'd recommend this video: