Game Info
Byzantine unique naval ranged unit. Replaces the Trireme.
- Common traits:
- Cannot enter deep ocean
- Special traits:
- Ranged attack (10
Ranged strength) - Combat bonus vs. Naval (+50%)
- Reduced strength (8 vs. 10 Melee strength)
- Unable to melee attack
- Ranged attack (10
Strategy
The Dromon is the only naval ranged unit available right from the Ancient Era. Its spectacular Greek fire attack works the same way as that of the latter Galleass, but looks much cooler.
Needless to say, having a ranged naval unit at this point in the game gives the Byzantine civilization an important advantage in the early game. Try to build some as soon as possible, and then use them to terrorize or conquer any nearby coastal cities. Dromons are also very useful against Barbarians along the coasts, allowing your fleet to deal with them unchallenged while a single land unit moves in to clear their encampments. The only drawback to all these advantages is that Dromons can't melee attack, and thus can't capture cities. However, this problem is quite easily circumvented.
The Dromon upgrades to a Galleass in the Medieval Era, and unfortunately doesn't transfer its Bonus vs. Naval.
Historical Info
A modified form of the traditional galley, the Dromon was an integral part of the Byzantine navy throughout the empire's reign. Featuring both oar and sail power, the Dromon was highly maneuverable and agile, but also dangerously equipped for battle. Through the use of Greek Fire, a precursor to modern Napalm, the Byzantines used an early form of the flamethrower to strike fear in the hearts of any who opposed them on the sea.
Trivia
- The word "dromon" is derived from the Greek "δρόμων," or "runner."
- The dromon was developed from the ancient Liburnian ship, which was the mainstay of the Roman navy in the days of the Empire.
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