Japan itself owes its creation to the tip of a spear: Izanagi no Mikoto and Izanami no Mikoto dipped Amanonuboko, the 'Heavenly Jewelled Spear', into the sea and, when they removed it, the first drip to leave its point formed the island Onogoro. However, it does leave them vulnerable to flanking manoeuvres and larger enemy units, particularly skilled swordsmen, could overwhelm this small group of warriors. Their weapon gives them the upper hand against enemy cavalry and makes them a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Heavily armoured, these skilled spearmen know no fear as defensive troops they are second to none, ideal for defending key positions in a castle.

These masters of the spear are excellent defensive troops, deadly to enemy cavalry. (Click here to learn more about unit abilities) Requires

Hold Firm - This temporarily increases defence ability and stops morale from dropping, making the unit, and up to three nearby units, unbreakable for a short time.

Second Wind - This restores a portion of nearby units' stamina, allowing them to fight longer and harder.

Rapid Advance - Increases a unit's movement speed and charge bonus for a short period of time.

Yari Square Formation - The yari square is an immobile solid square of men presenting a wall of yari on all sides to deter cavalry attack.

Vulnerable to matchlocks and to being swamped by massed melee units.

Basic Unit Statistics (can be modified by difficulty level, arts, skills, traits and retainers) Recruitment Cost

Shogun 2 hero units